Kenyan welding experts are raising serious concerns about a critical shortage of skilled welders, which is impacting industries both locally and internationally. The shortage, driven by inadequate training facilities and poor compensation, has sparked calls for urgent government intervention to address these issues and secure the future of the welding sector.
Stephen Lyoba, Founder and CEO of the East African Institute of Welding, has been vocal about the need for improved funding for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions. According to Lyoba, while Kenya has a growing youth population with the potential to excel in the welding field, the current training facilities are woefully under-equipped, limiting their ability to provide comprehensive education and practical skills development.
This lack of investment in training programs hampers the ability of Kenyan welders to compete on the global stage. Lyoba noted that, without adequate resources, training institutions cannot offer the level of education necessary to meet international standards. As a result, many Kenyan welders are falling behind their global counterparts.
“The shortage of skilled welders is not just a local issue; it’s a global concern,” Lyoba stated. “Our training institutions need more support to provide quality education and hands-on experience that meets international standards. Without this, our welders will continue to lag behind, limiting their prospects for local and international employment.”
Another pressing issue within the welding sector is poor compensation. Despite the high global demand for skilled welders in industries such as shipbuilding, manufacturing, and infrastructure development, Kenyan welders often face inadequate pay. Lyoba emphasized that addressing this issue is key to retaining skilled workers and attracting new talent into the industry. He highlighted that welders in Kenya are often paid significantly less than their international counterparts, which discourages many young people from entering the profession.
Ronny Friedl, CEO of CTCWeld, an international welding training and consulting firm, echoed these concerns. Friedl pointed out that the knowledge gap within the sector is one of the biggest challenges. Many welders lack even the most fundamental skills, such as correctly setting up welding machines, leading to quality control problems and safety risks.
“I’ve seen firsthand how a lack of proper training leads to significant challenges in welding quality,” Friedl noted. “When welders are not trained properly, it affects the overall quality of their work and can lead to dangerous accidents. It’s essential that we address this gap to ensure safety and high standards.”
Friedl added that the shortage of skilled welders is particularly troubling given the high demand in international markets. Industries in Eastern Europe and the Middle East, in particular, are actively seeking qualified welders, with over 100 job opportunities currently available in these regions. However, despite this demand, many Kenyan welders are unable to meet the rigorous standards required for international jobs, largely due to inadequate training and resources.
In light of these challenges, Lyoba has called on the Kenyan government to take decisive action. He urged the government to allocate more funds to TVET institutions, helping them upgrade their facilities and expand training programs. Additionally, Lyoba suggested that the Youth Fund be used to support young welders in their transition to international job markets, where they can fill the global shortage of skilled labor.
“The government has a crucial role to play in developing the welding sector,” Lyoba stated. “By investing in education and improving working conditions, we can build a stronger, more competitive workforce that can thrive both locally and globally.”
The broader implications of this issue reflect ongoing concerns about the state of vocational training and skilled trades in Kenya. As the demand for welders continues to rise, both locally and internationally, addressing the challenges of inadequate training, poor compensation, and lack of investment will be crucial for ensuring that Kenya can meet its future industry needs.
If reforms are not implemented soon, Kenya risks falling behind in a sector that is critical to its economic development and global competitiveness. The calls for improved funding and government support are not just about welding but about securing a future where skilled trades can thrive in Kenya and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s economy.
