Machakos County Government has partnered with Bamburi Cement in empowering and upskilling local communities by equipping them with practical skills to upcycle used cement bags into valuable products while strengthening local enterprises.
The transformative initiative aims to empower Kyemutheke community in sustainable projects that would improve their lives while developing marketable skills and financial independence to the artisans.
Thirty male and female artisans were trained between September and November 2025 where their productivity rose from 8 to 20 bags a day and produced over 500 high-quality bags from upcycled cement sacks, while mastering skills in product assembly, business planning, marketing, leadership, and environmental conservation.
Speaking during the launch of the upcycling project at Kyemutheke Vocational Training College, Machakos Deputy Governor Francis Mwangangi said that innovation-driven grassroots projects could turn local initiatives into future multinational enterprises.
Mwangangi called for strengthened local support, transparent leadership, and community-driven growth.
He emphasized that despite political differences, Machakos residents must champion their own development by backing local talent, safeguarding public resources, and sustaining collaborative partnerships across all sectors.
“Today we celebrate the graduation of the first cohort of 30 artisans who have successfully completed their training and are now fully equipped with skills to turn what was once considered waste into items of value,” said Mwangangi.
In addition to upcycling skills, the trainees received entrepreneurial and computer literacy training to enable the artisans to innovate and effectively use digital tools for global market and greater efficiency.
He hailed Bamburi Cement for their support, applauded them for earning two recent international awards and urged them to sustain their impactful work among various communities in the country.
The event brought together County officials, corporate partners, and community groups and residents in a united effort to boost skills training and innovation within the region.
By Ann Wangui and Anne Kangero
