The PropelA Dual Apprenticeship Programme has expanded to Mombasa, extending its vocational training initiative beyond Nairobi as part of efforts to address the shortage of skilled labour in Kenya’s construction sector.
Speaking during the launch in Mombasa, PropelA Dual Apprenticeship Programme representative Jimmy Delyon said the private sector-led programme aims to connect young people with employment opportunities in the plumbing and electrical trades through structured workplace training.
Delyon said the programme, which started in Nairobi four years ago, has so far trained more than 400 apprentices, recording a job retention rate of over 80 percent after placement in employment.
“Today PropelA expands into Mombasa, engaging the private sector and creating opportunities for young people who are keen on getting into the plumbing and electrical trades,” he said.
He said the programme is targeting more than 280 apprentices in its first Mombasa cohort as it works with companies to provide on-the-job training, mentorship and professional supervision.
According to Delyon, the programme is open to young people aged between 18 and 25 years who have completed high school with a minimum grade of D-.
He noted that training is financed through the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA) training levy, allowing eligible companies to support apprentices through a partnership between the public and private sectors.
Delyon said Kenya requires more than 5,000 skilled plumbers and electricians annually, adding that the current supply of qualified workers falls far below market demand.
“The demand for skilled labour is high. What we have done is barely a drop in the ocean, and that is why we need more private sector partners to create opportunities for young people to get on-the-job training,” he said.
Jupiter Energy Solutions General Manager Carolyn Kanja said the apprenticeship programme is helping bridge critical skills gaps that employers have struggled with for years.
Kanja said many technicians acquire practical experience while working on construction sites but often miss essential competencies such as interpreting technical drawings, customer service and communication skills.
“The biggest problem we are solving is the problem of skill. Most technicians learn on the site, but some of the skills required to do efficient work, like reading drawings, are not learned,” she said.
She added that Jupiter Energy Solutions has participated in the programme since its first cohort and has worked with about 20 apprentices, with eight already having graduated.
Kanja said professionally trained technicians help companies avoid costly repeat work caused by poor workmanship.
“The biggest danger is repeat work because when you are quoting for the job, you never quoted to repeat the job. You incur losses, and your reputation is also affected because people think you don’t do good work,” she said.
Container Technology Limited Managing Director Naeem Pasta said the programme has improved productivity by providing businesses with apprentices who possess industry-relevant technical skills.
Pasta said the company, which converts shipping containers into modular structures and habitable spaces, has benefited from trained plumbers and electricians supplied through the initiative.
He noted that Mombasa has limited technical training opportunities and welcomed the programme’s expansion to the Coast region.
“We have seen a tremendous positive impact on our productivity because of the professional training provided to the apprentices. The programme is also helping young people secure structured and well-paying jobs,” he said.