The Transformative Impact of the Affordable Housing Project on the NGOKAMKA Group

Kenya’s Jua Kali sector is the backbone of the country’s economy, providing jobs for 83% of the workforce, which translates to about 15 million people.

This vibrant sector, including clusters in Ngong Road, Kariobangi, and Kamukunji, is known for producing high-quality wood and metal products.

However, despite their skills, these artisans have long been excluded from participating in large-scale construction projects, limiting their growth potential.

Affordable Housing: A New Dawn for Jua Kali

The Affordable Housing Programme under the Big Four Agenda presented a unique chance for Jua Kali artisans to showcase their expertise.

The first pilot project at Park Road, Pangani, involving the construction of 1,300 housing units, opened the door for local artisans to supply metal and wooden doors.

This project aimed to bring artisans into the formal economy while addressing the housing needs of Kenyans.

Formation of Ngokamka Group

To participate in this groundbreaking initiative, the Ngong Road, Kariobangi, and Kamukunji clusters came together to form a new company called Ngokamka.

This union allowed them to bid for and execute contracts as a single entity. The name ‘Ngokamka‘ represents the unity of these three clusters.

Achievements of Ngokamka

With support from the State Department of Housing and Urban Development, Ngokamka delivered:

• 1,281 metal doors and 6,100 wooden doors for the Park Road project.
• Completed their work ahead of schedule and within budget.
• Enhanced skills, created jobs, and boosted incomes for participating artisans.

Impact on the Jua Kali Sector

The project had several benefits for artisans:

• Increased Earnings: Many businesses saw higher revenues and hired more workers.
• New Skills: Artisans learned advanced production techniques and gained insights into formal contracting.
• Confidence and Visibility: The clusters gained confidence to bid for future projects and earned recognition from government leaders and partners.

Challenges and Lessons Learned

The project faced hurdles such as:

• Lack of access to affordable financing for small businesses.
• Raw material shortages due to a ban on logging.
• Communication challenges within the clusters.

Despite these challenges, Ngokamka successfully navigated them with government support, showing the potential of Jua Kali artisans to contribute to national development.

The Future of Jua Kali in Kenya

The success of this pilot project sets the stage for greater involvement of the Jua Kali sector in government projects.

By standardizing housing inputs and building partnerships, Kenya can harness the full potential of its artisans.

The Affordable Housing Programme continues to prioritize local participation, ensuring that more Kenyans benefit economically while addressing the housing crisis.

A Message of Hope

Ngokamka’s journey shows that when opportunities and support are provided, Kenyan artisans can achieve remarkable success.

This is just the beginning of a brighter future for Kenya’s informal sector, with more doors opening for local businesses to thrive and grow.

Register and purchase a unit on the Affordable Housing Program by clicking bomayangu.go.ke