Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has unveiled an ambitious framework aimed at linking the Jua Kali sector to formal employment and business financing opportunities, both locally and internationally. This initiative is set to transform the landscape for the country’s skilled artisans by providing a structured pathway to enhance their economic prospects and integrate them into the formal economy.
At the heart of this initiative is the Recognition of Prior Learning Policy (RPLP), launched in March 2023. The RPLP seeks to validate the skills and expertise of Jua Kali artisans—who are pivotal to Kenya’s economy but often operate in the informal sector without formal recognition of their skills. This policy allows artisans to apply for certification through designated Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET) institutions, thereby attesting to their competencies in specific trades.
The new framework will facilitate the transition of these artisans from informal to formal employment by connecting them with job opportunities and business financing. During a recent multi-agency meeting at his Karen Residence in Nairobi, Gachagua described this integration as a “masterstroke programme,” emphasizing its potential to drive economic growth and improve the livelihoods of those in the Jua Kali sector.
Gachagua’s vision is to not only enhance the artisans’ income but also to elevate their work to a more dignified status. He highlighted the need for financial support to address gaps that have previously hindered artisans from securing contracts and expanding their businesses. “Recognition of Prior Learning policy is a great milestone in Kenya because the Jua Kali sector carries a bulk of our population. They are drivers of the economy. The Linkage Programme and Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) policy intend to dignify their work,” he stated.
The framework involves several key components. The National Industrial Training Authority (NITA) will play a crucial role in sensitizing TVET principals to become assessors of Jua Kali artisans. This will ensure that individual artisans receive certificates that accurately reflect their skills. Additionally, some master craftspersons within the Jua Kali sector will be trained to become assessors and even trainers, transforming selected worksites into assessment centers.
Moreover, Gachagua emphasized that this linkage programme will facilitate the involvement of Jua Kali artisans in national projects such as the Affordable Housing Program and market constructions. This move aims to harness the practical skills of the artisans for large-scale developments, thus integrating them into significant economic projects.
The Deputy President’s plan also includes international dimensions. Principal Secretary for Diaspora Affairs Roseline Njogu announced that certified artisans would be incorporated into the Kazi Majuu Initiative, which seeks to match local skills with overseas market opportunities. The goal is for Kenya’s RPL certificates to be recognized and valued on the global stage, enhancing the artisans’ competitiveness abroad.
Nyamai Wambua, CEO of the Kenya National Federation of Jua Kali Associations, lauded the initiative, noting that it would open up new job opportunities and provide a voice for the informal sector. Wambua expressed gratitude for the support from government agencies and the Deputy President’s office in advancing this agenda.
This initiative aligns with President William Ruto’s directive for contractors and developers involved in the Affordable Housing Program to subcontract youths and Jua Kali artisans. This approach is expected to boost the participation of the informal sector in key national projects, further reinforcing its role in Kenya’s economic development.
The comprehensive framework and supportive measures outlined by Deputy President Gachagua mark a significant step towards recognizing and empowering the Jua Kali sector, ensuring that skilled artisans receive the recognition and opportunities they deserve while contributing to the broader economic growth of Kenya.
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