Tourism Fund steps up drive to upskill workers in relevant industries

Tourism Fund has trained about 4,800 hospitality workers with essential skills aimed at enhancing their capacity in the industry across the country, officials have disclosed. They noted that the training was a significant boost to the hospitality sector and will see general services and revenue growth highly improved.
This milestone achievement was revealed during the 11th cohort training programme held in Sigalagala National Polytechnic in Kakamega County at the weekend. The training is aimed at equipping participants with the skills needed to secure employment in a rapidly growing industry.
Speaking during a graduation ceremony for 319 graduates at the polytechnic, Tourism Fund CEO David Mwangi underscored the need for training more hospitality industry workers.
Mwangi was represented at the event by Enock Chebii, Training Revolving Fund Manager at Tourism Fund who also underscored the importance of these initiatives in improving the industry services and returns.
Chebii said persistent skills gap has long threatened the potential of the tourism sector, emphasising that lack of adequately trained personnel has hindered the industry’s growth and competitiveness.
To combat this issue, the Tourism Fund, he disclosed, is actively rolling out more training programmes nationwide, targeting all 47 counties. “This expansive initiative aims to equip a broader range of hospitality workers with the skills necessary to elevate service standards and operational efficiency,” said Chebii.
He said that by leveraging these training programmes, the sector seeks not only to enhance the quality of service provided but also to attract increased tourism earnings. “This revenue is crucial, as it will be reinvested into further developing the national economy and supporting additional training efforts,” he explained.
Chief Principal of Sigalagala National Polytechnic Evans Bosire stressed the importance of practical skill development for students seeking alternative pathways after secondary school.
He encouraged those who may not be able to pursue the traditional university education path to consider enrolling in the Polytechnic.
“The Polytechnic’s strategic collaborations with peers across multiple sectors enhance the learning experience while providing students with opportunities to gain real-world insights and experience,” said Bosire.
He said these partnerships, like with the Tourism Fund, not only enrich the curriculum but also facilitate internships and job placements, enabling graduates to transition smoothly into their chosen careers.
The Tourism Fund Board of Trustee Dorcas Mbalanya who represented chairman Samson Some, said the training initiative focused on building capacity for workers, many of whom lack certificates, to improve their employment opportunities in the sector.
She said they see the training exercise as a significant step forward for the hospitality industry.
Mbalanya said the board of trustees is committed to implementing more skills gap training programmes in the future to further enhance workforce capabilities and boost the industry’s overall growth and professionalism.