• Housing PS Charles Mwaura said that the ministry has ring-fenced for the Jua Kali sector 69 construction materials for homes in the programme.
• The ministry has urged the informal sector players to form associations and register to provide construction components and materials.
Image: COURTESY
The government will spend Sh3 billion to buy 100,000 doors and 120,000 windows from the Jua Kali sector to be used in the Affordable Housing Programme.
Housing PS Charles Mwaura said that the ministry has ring-fenced for the Jua Kali sector 69 construction materials for homes in the programme.
Mwaura spoke during the opening of the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Jua Kali Sensitisation Programme and the launch of the Jua Kali Production Manual.
“We are giving the Jua Kali sector an opportunity to participate in the construction of houses for the Affordable Housing Programme,” Mwaura said.
He said the Jua Kali Sector is a big contributor to employment in the country and a key enabler of the manufacturing sector.
“We are keen to upscale them to enable them to contribute to this national development project while supporting their growth,” he said.
The ministry has urged the informal sector players to form associations and register to provide construction components and materials.
“To enable funding, a multi-agency committee led by National Construction Authority will provide the players with 30 per cent advance payment upon the successful bidding process,” Mwaura said.
A partnership of state departments will facilitate the Jua Kali artisans to supply the ring-fenced items for projects across the country.
Industrialisation PS Francis Owino said that the informal sector is critical to achieving the Big 4 Agenda, especially the manufacturing sector.
“They are critical players in the production of construction sector materials and components, and are a key contributor in employment creation,” he said.
The Jua Kali production manual will provide stakeholders with the knowledge and standards for designing components for the project.
NCA executive director Maurice Akech said the move is part of their joint efforts to upskill the artisans and improve the quality of their products.
Jua Kali Association national chairman Richard Muteti said that the sector must organise itself to deal with the government – one of the largest markets.
He challenged the members to form groups as it is easier for the government to transact with groups rather than multiple entrepreneurs.