More Kenyans are embracing technical and vocational trades. The move responds to growing demand for skilled manpower across Kenya and the region.
Speaking during an interaction with workers at the ongoing construction of the Bomas International Convention Complex in Nairobi, President Ruto praised the dedication of Kenyan workers driving the country’s transformation agenda.
President Ruto said the Complex under construction employs up to 3,000 workers daily.
He said, “We appreciate the hardworking men and women driving our transformation forward. Their dedication, commitment, and skills bring us closer, day after day, to making Kenya a dream nation for every citizen.”
He added, “We will continue rolling out labour-intensive programmes to expand opportunities for millions of young Kenyans.”
Many Kenyans hold university degrees but struggle to find jobs. Employers report a shortage of technicians, craftsmen, and skilled hands. This skills gap has pushed more youth to pursue trade certifications.
Technical and vocational education and training colleges report rising enrolment.
Short-course bootcamps and apprenticeships attract graduates seeking quick, practical skills. Employers hire certified electricians, welders, carpenters, and technicians rapidly.
BETA, the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda, guides these efforts.
President Ruto noted, “These programmes create jobs, build skills, and increase opportunities for every Kenyan.”
The government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), outlined in the Fourth Medium Term Plan, focuses on sectors that can rapidly generate large numbers of quality jobs. Key areas include labour-intensive public works, agro-processing, manufacturing, and support for small and medium enterprises.
The framework channels policy and funding toward skills development, co-operatives, and business support systems.
Its goal is to link more Kenyans to productive employment and reduce the reliance on low-paying informal jobs or prolonged job searches.
