The National Construction Authority (NCA) has issued certifications to over four thousand skilled workers and site supervisors at Katakwa Vocational Centre in Angurai South ward, Busia County, which now enables them to partake in formal employment.
This initiative is an effort to enhance employment opportunities for construction workers in Busia through this accreditation program.
Skilled workers and site supervisors can now continue working without attending formal schooling thanks to the implementation of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).
This makes it possible for many construction workers who previously lacked official qualifications to become certified.
Speaking at Katakwa Vocational Centre, Raymond Karani, the Manager of Registration and Compliance at NCA, highlighted the significance of the program.
“This program is revolutionizing the construction industry. Through appropriate regulation and certification, it raises industry standards and gives competent individuals the official recognition they deserve, leading to better employment opportunities,” stated Karani.
Moreover, Samson Lukoba, the Manager of Legal Affairs at NCA noted that the Building Act of 2024 will be one of the major pointers for the construction industry.
“The Act seeks to unify the work of construction practitioners and enterprises by instituting measures on compliance, occupational health and safety as well as fair labour practices. This will enable Kenya’s construction industry to internationally comply,” he added.
Busia County Women Representative Catherine Omanyo, who championed this initiative, was able to rally the region for affirmative action so that constituents reaped maximum benefits.
“What touches me most is that these individuals received certification and accreditation completely free of charge. Ordinarily, this process would have cost them fifteen thousand shillings, which is a lot of money and which most couldn’t afford,” said Omanyo.
Many people who had experience but no papers now have certificates to prove what they can do.
With support from both government and community leaders, more skilled workers can now find better jobs and help grow the country.
By Owen Mutai
