EMBU, Kenya, Apr 16 — Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua says the Government has contracted thousands of Jua Kali artisans who are playing a crucial role in the implementation of the Affordable Housing Project.
The Deputy President revealed that thousands of skilled youth were already benefitting from the multi-billion housing project being rolled out in various counties.
He spoke on Tuesday when he witnessed the signing of a multi-million-shilling contract between the National Housing Corporation and Embu Jua Kali Business Inclusivity Craft Workers Association for the fabrication and supply of steel doors and windows for the affordable houses in Embu’s Majimbo area.
“The affordable housing project is important to this country. On top of decent shelter for our people, thousands of job opportunities are being created for the youth as is evident here in Embu today,” said Gachagua.
The contract is aimed at boosting the Jua Kali artisans based in Embu town. They will supply the doors and windows worth Sh10.9 million for the Majimbo affordable houses.
Gachagua said the flagship housing project has been designed to benefit the millions of jobless skilled youth who have been deprived of work for years.
He said the project is playing a big role in the fight against illicit brews, drug and substance abuse as youth who had been sucked into the menace were busy in construction sites earning a living.
“The fight against illicit brews will not stop until we have fully dealt with the menace. The affordable housing project is helping us in the fight as many of our youths are fully engaged in this programme,” observed the DP.
The DP also challenged the youth who are already contracted at the site to ensure they acquire certificates for their informally-acquired skills saying the government has instituted the Recognition of Prior Learning Framework to help them in certifying their knowledge.
“The Recognition of Prior Learning is critical as it will help you in formalisation of the skills and knowledge you have gained over years,” he said.
The Deputy President was accompanied Embu Governor Cecily Mbarire, Senator Alexander Mundigi, Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji, Deputy Governor Kinyua Mugo, Mbeere South MP Nebart Muriuki, Runyenjes MP Eric Karemba, South Mugirango MP Sylvanus Osoro (also National Assembly Majority Whip), Dagoretti South MP John Kiarie, Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa, Lang’ata MP Phelix Odiwuor Jalango, Mumias East MP Peter Salasya, UDA Secretary General Cleophas Malala, NHC Chairman Yusuf Chanzu, Area MCA Ibrahim Swaleh (Kirimari Ward), Members of County Assembly, among others.
