NAIROBI, Kenya- Young women in Kenya’s construction industry are breaking barriers, thanks to a collaborative initiative by USAID, Family Bank, and World Vision.
Through their flagship program, Tumikia Mtoto, the partners are committed to equipping young women with vital skills, such as plumbing, painting, and building.
So far, the initiative has trained over 700 women in Nairobi and Kiambu counties.
During the recent graduation of 78 women from the Tumikia Mtoto program, Joseph Mutari, Principal Secretary of the State Department of Labour and Social Protection, underscored the importance of vocational training in addressing youth unemployment.
He noted that the government has certified graduates from vocational training institutes, which gives them a leg up when seeking job opportunities both locally and internationally.
“This program is not just about imparting technical skills—it’s about boosting the job market competitiveness of young women in Kenya,” Mutari said during the event.
With the construction industry traditionally dominated by men, these certifications are crucial for the women to secure roles previously considered off-limits.
Family Bank Managing Director Nancy Njau echoed this sentiment, expressing optimism about the ongoing impact of the program, which is now in its fourth cohort.
Njau emphasized that equipping young women with the necessary skills not only opens doors for them but also contributes to Kenya’s overall economic growth.
“The skills and certifications these women have acquired place them on an equal footing with their male counterparts, giving them the confidence to actively contribute to nation-building,” Njau noted.
In addition to creating employment opportunities, the Tumikia Mtoto program is dismantling traditional gender norms within the construction sector.
By offering women competitive training and certification, the initiative is paving the way for gender equality in a male-dominated industry.
Bradley Cronk, USAID representative, praised the program for challenging gender stereotypes head-on. “By debunking these stereotypes, we are opening up new avenues for women to excel in areas traditionally considered off-limits,” he said.
The Tumikia Mtoto program, supported by Family Bank, World Vision, and USAID, is not only enhancing employability for young women but also setting the stage for long-term economic empowerment.
With each cohort, the initiative continues to break down barriers and inspire the next generation of female leaders in construction.
