The rising cost of raw materials is increasingly affecting artisans and traders in Kiambu County’s Jua Kali sector, forcing many small businesses to reduce operations, lay off workers, and struggle to meet customer demand.
The Jua Kali industry, which supports thousands of mechanics, welders, electricians, and metal fabricators across the country, has for years remained a key source of employment and income for many youths and low-income families. However Kiambu traders now say the cost of importing and transporting essential materials has become unbearable.
In Kiambu Town, 35-year-old auto spare parts dealer Peris Wanjiru said the situation has worsened in recent months as prices of engine components, steel products, and welding materials continue to rise.
“Importing and transporting materials such as steel, welding products, and machinery is becoming difficult because the cost keeps increasing every day,” she said.
Wanjiru noted that the rising expenses have forced her to scale down operations and release some employees because sustaining the business has become difficult.
“Some engine spare parts that were previously affordable are now very expensive, and customers think we are overcharging them,” she added.
Artisans operating around the Kiambu stage have also blamed high fuel prices for increasing transport and production costs. According to the traders, profits have significantly reduced compared to previous years, with many businesses only managing to restock materials without making meaningful savings.
Mechanics and welders say customers are increasingly opting for cheaper and lower-quality products due to the high cost of genuine spare parts and raw materials.
John Mbuthia, a mechanic said many customers are delaying vehicle repairs because they can no longer afford maintenance costs. “Some customers now buy low-quality components because they are cheaper, but the same have poor durability,” said Mbuthia.
He warned that the situation is affecting employment opportunities within the sector, especially for young people who depend on garages and workshops for daily income.
“This business is slowly becoming survival for the fittest because fewer customers are coming in,” he added.
The rising production costs have also contributed to the closure of some small workshops due to an inadequate supply of materials and reduced customer purchasing power.
Artisans are now calling on the government to reduce taxes on imported raw materials and strengthen local manufacturing industries to stabilize prices and protect the Jua Kali sector.
Treasury CS John Mbadi recently said Kenya remains at high risk of global fuel shocks.
He attributed the Iran war to soaring fuel prices, as Kenya imports all its petroleum products. To this effect, Mbadi noted that the government was forced to seek alternatives from a distant market.
“The global fuel prices have doubled, but the global prices often fluctuate. If the global fuel prices increase, we must also increase them here in Kenya,” he added.
by Monicah Mukami
