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EMPOWERING LOCAL ARTISANS THROUGH THE AFFORDABLE HOUSING PROJECT

The Kenyan government’s Affordable Housing Project, a key pillar of the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), aims to address the housing deficit and promote homeownership, particularly among low-income individuals. Additionally, it is expected to generate jobs in the construction sector and boost the overall economy.

Through strategic partnerships and initiatives, the Micro and Small Enterprises Authority (MSEA) has played a vital role in facilitating Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) across the country to seize these opportunities, directly contributing to the success of the project and the uplifting of communities.

MSEs deliver high-quality fabricated products

In Laikipia, the MSEA office celebrated a milestone with the Glory Steel, Aluminium, Fabricators, and Glassmart Association. Empowered by MSEA’s support, this association successfully fabricated and delivered a batch of high-quality steel doors and windows for the Nanyuki affordable housing project. Beyond this, the MSEA team took the opportunity to inform the group about further government initiatives, such as the Kenya Jobs Enterprise Training (KJET) and the National Youth Opportunity Towards Advancement (NYOTA) projects, ensuring that these artisans are well-positioned to benefit from additional opportunities.

MSEs in Laikipia delivering doors and windows for the affordable housing project.

In the North Rift region, MSEA has partnered with Kingdom Bank to explore funding opportunities for MSEs involved in the affordable housing project. During a recent meeting, the two organizations discussed the possibility of providing financial support to successful MSEs and agreed to hold a capacity-building session focusing on financial literacy, record keeping, quality assurance, and intentional credit. This session will target at least 120 Jua Kali Association officials under MSEA while Kingdom Bank will cover the training costs.

MSEA North Rift team with representatives from Kingdom bank.

In Machakos, MSEA facilitated a crucial meeting between Juakali association officials and VEE VEE Contractors, the firm tasked with constructing the Machakos Level 5 Hospital. The discussions focused on subcontracting opportunities for the Juakali associations, including the supply of building materials such as sand, heavy blocks, and window glasses. Following this, the first piece of work; fixing glass windows on a completed site house commenced, marking the beginning of what is expected to be a long-term collaboration.

MSEA Machakos team with the association officials and the contractors.

The success of the Affordable Housing Project is perhaps best exemplified in Uasin Gishu County. Here, the Olendu Elders Association recently delivered 100 door frames and 100 solid doors to the Kidiwa Affordable Housing project in Sub-County. This delivery is part of a broader engagement where over 10 associations have benefited through contracts for welding, fabrication, and the supply of various construction materials. With the upcoming launch of similar projects in Moiben, Kapseret, Keiyo North, and Keiyo South, MSEA is set to register and sensitize over 50 more associations to ensure they too can capitalize on these opportunities.

MSEs making a delivery in Uasin Gishu County.

Through MSEA’s dedicated efforts, MSEs across Kenya are gaining access to new markets, developing their skills, and creating jobs. This initiative not only addresses the housing deficit but also uplifts the very artisans who are the backbone of our local economies. As the project progresses, MSEA remains committed to ensuring that the benefits are widely shared, building not just homes, but stronger, more resilient communities.

MSEs delivering fabricated products to affordable housing projects.


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