More than 170 youth contractors from the Nyanza and Western regions have converged in Kisumu for a capacity-building programme aimed at improving access to construction financing, training and business opportunities in the sector.
The initiative, organised by the National Construction Authority (NCA) in partnership with the Youth Enterprise Development Fund, Micro and Small Enterprises Authority (MSEA), Mabati Rolling Mills (MRM) and other stakeholders, seeks to strengthen the capacity of young contractors classified under NCA categories 5, 6, 7 and 8.
Speaking in Kisumu, Thursday, during the Youth-Contractor Empowerment Programme, NCA General Manager in charge of Construction Research, Business Development and Capacity Building, Dr. Chrispus Ndinyo, said the Authority was keen on equipping youth-led firms with the skills and networks needed to thrive in the construction industry.
“We are gathered here together with contractors, particularly youthful contractors in this western region, and partners supporting contractor financing. Our mission is to build their capacity and create opportunities for them to grow their businesses,” said Ndinyo.
He noted that access to affordable financing remains one of the biggest hurdles facing emerging contractors, adding that the programme was designed to connect them with institutions that can support their projects.
The forum brought together officials from the County government, Youth Enterprise Development Fund, National Construction Authority, construction firms and financial partners to discuss issues ranging from labour mobility and enterprise management to innovation in construction materials and record-keeping practices that support access to finance and markets.
Dr Ndinyo said the initiative is part of a nationwide campaign by the Authority to professionalize the sector and improve standards in the industry.
“It is part of our mandate as NCA to build capacity in the construction industry. We started with Nairobi and now we are moving across the country to ensure contractors are trained and exposed to opportunities,” he said.
According to the NCA official, the Authority has so far trained about 8,000 contractors this financial year under its Continuous Professional Development programme and is targeting 15 capacity-building forums across the country.
He added that improving contractors’ technical knowledge would help address concerns over substandard construction works.
“When contractors are trained on better construction methods and standards, they are able to deliver quality work. We also have the Building Code 2024 to guide them in compliance and best practices,” he said.
Youth Enterprise Development Fund Head of Market Access and Innovation, Daniel Mathenge, said the programme was aimed at helping young contractors navigate challenges in the industry, particularly financing constraints.
“We know financing is available in the market, but it is not always affordable. As a government agency, we are here to provide youth contractors with accessible financing options tailored to their needs,” said Mathenge.
He said the fund offers products that support contractors awarded tenders by the national government, county governments and other entities, enabling them to execute projects without financial strain.
“If a youth contractor has secured a contract and has the proper documentation, we are able to finance them so they can complete the assignment,” he said.
Mathenge added that the Fund was also focusing on mentorship, coaching and market linkages to help young entrepreneurs build sustainable businesses.
“We do not want young contractors venturing into business blindly. We want to walk with them through the entrepreneurship journey while also encouraging innovation in the construction sector,” he added.
Mabati Rolling Mills Kisumu Branch Manager Elson Okio, said the Company had partnered with NCA to bridge skills gaps among young people in the construction industry.
“As MRM, we believe technical skills are critical in empowering youth and driving the economy. Through the Mabati Technical Training Institute in Mariakani, we train young people in technical aspects of construction,” said Okio.
Kisumu County Urban Planner, Frida Odhiambo, said the County government was using the forum to sensitize contractors on emerging opportunities under ongoing development projects and new planning policies.
She said young contractors needed to familiarise themselves with the county’s recently launched Local Physical and Land Development Plan to better advise clients and comply with planning requirements.
She further pointed to opportunities expected to arise from affordable housing projects and World Bank-funded developments in newly established municipalities such as Ahero.
“They should ensure they have the right documents and compliance papers so they can take advantage of upcoming projects,” she said.
By Chris Mahandara
