Kenya’s Jua Kali sector is a key target of President William Ruto’s Affordable Housing Programme (AHP).
Juakali is the backbone of the country’s economy, providing jobs for 83% of the workforce, which translates to about 15 million people.
AHP has had a transformative impact on the NGOKΑΜΚΑ Group which is made up of Juakali clusters from Ngong Road, Kariobangi, and Kamukunji.
NGOKΑΜΚΑ is now known for producing high-quality wood and metal products.
Despite their skills, these artisans had been excluded from participating in large-scale construction projects, limiting their growth potential.
Affordable Housing: A New Dawn for Jua Kali
The Affordable Housing Programme presented a unique chance for Jua Kali artisans to showcase their expertise.
The first pilot project at Park Road, Pangani, involving the construction of 1,300 housing units, opened the door for local artisans to supply metal and wooden doors.
This project aimed to bring artisans into the formal economy while addressing the housing needs of Kenyans.
Formation of Ngokamka
To participate in this groundbreaking initiative, the Ngong Road, Kariobangi, and Kamukunji Jua Kali clusters came together to form a new company called NGOKΑΜΚΑ.
The name NGOKΑΜΚΑ represents the unity of these three clusters.
This union allowed them to bid for and execute contracts as a single entity.
Achievements of NGOKΑΜΚΑ
The Union has now been able to deliver with support from the State Department of Housing and Urban Development.
One of the most notable milestones for the group so far has been the delivery of 1,281 metal doors and 6,100 wooden doors for the Park Road project.
In an interview, Eliud Mbiyu- the Chairman of the Kamukunji Cluster described the opportunity presented by the housing project as a challenge that opened doors for more jobs.
“Being brought to such a big project is a challenge to us to start thinking beyond the box. I think if we are able to make products of high quality, we are able to get the jobs as we have shown here in Park Road,” Eliud Mbiyu, Chairman, Kamukunji Cluster and Finance Director said.
They also completed their work ahead of schedule and within budget.
AHP also enhanced skills, created jobs, and boosted incomes for participating artisans.
Other Benefits for Artisans
The project also increased earnings as many businesses saw higher revenues and hired more workers.
Additionally, the artisans learned advanced production techniques and gained insights into formal contracting.
The clusters also gained confidence to bid for future projects and earned recognition from government leaders and partners.
Also Read: Explainer: How Ksh42 Billion Housing Levy Has Been Used in Affordable Housing Programme
Challenges and Lessons Learned
But it was not always a walk in the park. In its onset days, NGOKAMKA faced hurdles such as lack of access to affordable financing for small businesses.
There were also raw material shortages due to a ban on logging and communication challenges within the clusters.
Despite these challenges, NGOKAMKA successfully navigated them with government support, showing the potential of Jua Kali artisans to contribute to national development.
“We have been able to break through with the little money we had. I think Juakali has a good future,” Eliud added.
Also Read: Juakali Sector Secures sh4.4 Billion from Affordable Housing
The Future of Jua Kali in Kenya
The success of this pilot project sets the stage for greater involvement of the Jua Kali sector in government projects.
AHP continues to prioritize local participation, ensuring that more Kenyans benefit economically while addressing the housing crisis.
NGOKAMKA journey shows that when opportunities and support are provided, Kenyan artisans can achieve remarkable success.
Cynthia Kamau, Secretary Ngong Road Cluster and Director NGOKAMKA said the AHP helped them both as an association and as individuals.
She explained that the project has given them the confidence that they can work in bigger projects.
“I have confidence that I can go to a site and look for work because of the experience I have gained from this project,” Cynthia said.
“Having dealt with a government that believes that juakali can deliver and handle big money, we need to take advantage of that and try to get to the next level in our businesses.”
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