Kenya: Bamburi rolls out training seminars for improved construction quality standards

Over 1600 masons from across the country are set to benefit from a training programme organised by Bamburi Cement to improve skills in the building and construction industry in Kenya.

Bamburi Cement rolled out the free training seminars from across the country in August, a move aimed at improving construction quality standards in the country.  The training seminars are part of the Builders Academy initiative started 12 years ago by the company, with the main objective to enhance masons’ skills and professionalism, by offering them formal training, and through this in turn aiding to promote safe construction and job creation in the country.

The main theme for this year’s training is ‘Professionalism in Construction Causes of Building Collapses and Mitigation Measures’. Beneficiaries will be trained on site planning, drawings, setting out and foundations, mix designs, causes of building defects and how to avoid them, as well as on site safety procedures.

Speaking in Machakos at the weekend where more than 240 masons drawn from Machakos, Kitui, and Namanga area were in training, the company reiterated its commitment to enabling masons to make their contribution to society in the building and construction industry.

“This program seeks to improve the vocational skills of masons, who are key players in the construction value chain, thus enhancing quality and safety of buildings. The masons are trained by engineers who have practical experience in construction,” said Irene Onacha Marketing Director, Bamburi Cement.

So far the company has trained over 500 masons and foremen from Utawala, Nyeri, Migori, Embu, Chuka, Meru and Maua. Additionally, the Company looks to target an additional 500 masons from Kitale, Kisumu, Eldoret, Siaya, Bungoma, Nakuru, Webuye, Ol Kalau, Malindi, Mombasa and Ukunda next month.

“Since inception 12 years ago, and in Kenya alone, we have visited over 200 towns and villages around the country. We have held over 500 seminars and interacted with more than 250,000 masons,” Ms Onacha stated.

“We commend the National Construction Authority (NCA) in its endeavors to inculcate professionalism in the construction industry through its initiative of registering contractors, capacity building and training and knowledge sharing.  Bamburi Cement is in the process of partnering with NCA to continue to enrich this program in the enhancement of skills of artisans and general construction workers’ concluded Ms Onacha.