A new initiative to boost Kenya’s manufacturing growth by addressing the skills gap in the sector through specialized training in Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining has been launched. PC Kinyanjui Technical Training Institute is hosting this program that involves collaboration among the Wilfried and Martha Ensinger Foundation (Germany), Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) Kenya, and the governments of Finland and Germany. The initiative, part of the ‘Promotion of Youth Employment and Vocational Training’ program, targets 20 TVET institutions and aims to improve the employability of at least 500 students through CNC Training of Trainers (ToT).
This program comes in response to the need for improving Kenya’s business environment, given current challenges such as high energy costs and regulatory unpredictability. The initiative aims to align technical training with market needs by connecting TVET institutions with the private sector. This will equip youth with practical skills, thereby enhancing their competitiveness in the job market.
Stakeholders agree on the importance of technology transfer for economic transformation. By empowering trainers and students with CNC technology, the initiative aims to enable the local manufacture of components needed in various sectors such as automotive, aerospace, and agriculture. This local manufacturing is expected to reduce reliance on imports, cut costs, create jobs, and foster export opportunities.
Key voices such as Alexander Fierley, Deputy Ambassador of Germany, and Dr. Kevit Desai, a TVET advocate and industrialist, emphasize aligning vocational training with industry needs and the potential of CNC technology to stimulate economic growth. Francis Veto of the Kenya Association of Manufacturers underscores CNC technology’s role in producing high-quality parts domestically.
In summary, this strategic collaboration seeks to revitalize Kenya’s manufacturing sector by filling the skills gap, empowering youth, and promoting sustainable industrial growth. This initiative is timely and tackles critical barriers to industrial development by fostering a skilled workforce aligned with modern technological demands.
