Ruto unveils artisan certification programme as Kenya taps skilled workers for Affordable Housing jobs
By Aloys Michael, July 23, 2026President William Ruto has announced a government-funded artisan certification programme aimed at helping skilled workers in Kenya gain formal qualifications and access employment opportunities under the Affordable Housing Programme.
Speaking on Thursday, July 23, 2026, when he hosted artisans from Nairobi at State House, President Ruto said the government had already allocated resources to support experienced workers who have practical skills but lack official certificates.
“We have a government programme and the funding is already available. If you are a skilled worker who already has the practical skills but does not have a certificate, we are ready to support you,” President Ruto said.
The Head of State said the initiative would allow artisans to register through a government system, after which the cost of obtaining certification would be covered.
“We have already been connected to the government system so that you can register, and the government will cover the cost of obtaining your certificate. After that, you will be awarded your certificate,” he said.
President Ruto encouraged skilled workers to take advantage of the programme, saying certification would enable more artisans to access job opportunities and participate in national development projects.
“This is also the time when we are looking for skilled workers, so you can step forward, get certified, and be able to access work opportunities,” he added.
Artisans key to Affordable Housing Programme
The government is relying on artisans as a critical workforce in the delivery of the Affordable Housing Programme, one of President Ruto’s flagship initiatives under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).
The programme is expected to create demand for thousands of skilled workers, including masons, carpenters, electricians, plumbers, welders and other construction specialists involved in building affordable homes across Kenya.
By supporting artisan certification, the government aims to bridge the gap between practical experience and formal qualifications, allowing workers in the informal sector to compete for employment opportunities in construction and other technical fields.
Many skilled artisans in Kenya have years of hands-on experience but face challenges accessing formal jobs and government projects because they lack recognised certificates. The certification initiative is designed to address this challenge by validating their skills and improving their access to employment.
Govt focus on skilled workforce development
President Ruto’s announcement comes as the government continues to promote technical and vocational training as a pathway to employment, especially for young Kenyans and workers in the informal sector.
The artisan certification programme is expected to strengthen Kenya’s construction workforce by increasing the number of qualified professionals available for housing projects and other infrastructure developments.
The initiative also supports efforts to promote skills recognition, where workers can receive formal accreditation based on their existing practical abilities.
Skilled workers who have practical experience but lack certificates are encouraged to register through the government’s designated system to begin the certification process.
The programme offers an opportunity for artisans to gain recognised qualifications, improve their employability and participate in projects requiring certified technical skills.
As Kenya expands its affordable housing projects, the demand for qualified artisans is expected to increase, making certification an important step towards connecting skilled workers with available employment opportunities.