Local contractors eye collaborations to grow share in projects

Stakeholders in Kenya’s construction sector have sought collaboration with government agencies to grow the share of local contractors in projects.

This as the share of domestic contractors in major construction projects remain below par and against provisions requiring a 30:70 split of ownership between local and foreign firms in projects.

Under the representation of the National Construction Authority (NCA), the local contractors have identified three ministries including Energy, Water and Transport to bolster their participation in projects.

“There is much more that can be achieved through collaboration. We hope this will be our turning point. It’s all in collaboration,” said NCA Chairperson David Gaitho.

According to a 2015 study by NCA on the capacity assessment of the domestic construction industry, local contractors only take up a share of two per cent of all major construction works undertaken.

Additionally, 73 per cent of project managers identified the lack of qualified workers, the lack of harmony and enforcement within Kenya’s built environment.

Principal Secretary in the State Department of Public Works Maj. Gen (Rtd) Gordon Kihalangwa says the government is still committed to growing the share of local ownership in projects.

“All things are gradual. Nevertheless, we need to make sure that affirmative action is taken. We would however call on local contractors to live up to their expectations,” he said.