Nairobi’s Community Engages in Meaningful Construction and Renovation of Worship Houses

Donholm, Nairobi – In a compelling demonstration of skill development and community service, members of the Nairobi agro-pastoral community, including Naomi Wanjiku, have been actively participating in construction and renovation projects for houses of worship. On World Youth Skills Day, the global emphasis was on empowering young individuals with necessary skills for the workforce, a mission that resonates deeply with Wanjiku’s journey and contributions.

According to Kenya News Agency, there’s a significant gap in youth skills across 92 countries, which initiatives like the one Wanjiku is involved in aim to address. After acquiring a diploma in electronics and electrical engineering from Thika Technical Training Institute, Wanjiku found employment but also chose to dedicate her free time to volunteer construction work, specifically on the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Umoja, Nairobi.

The construction projects Wanjiku participates in are not just about building structures; they are about building communities and skills. During these initiatives, she and other volunteers, particularly women, engage in various construction tasks, gaining and sharing knowledge in a collaborative environment. The projects range from roofing, tiling, and electrical work to more specialized tasks, underpinning a strong ethos of learning and mutual assistance.

The KNBS Quarterly Labour Force Report from October-December 2022 highlights the underemployment issues among youth, placing initiatives like Wanjiku’s in a critical context of providing practical experience and vocational training. In her role, Wanjiku not only applies her formal training but also learns additional skills like masonry and painting, contributing to a versatile and skilled workforce.

The Kingdom Hall project in Umoja is part of a broader network of construction and maintenance activities overseen by Jehovah’s Witnesses in Kenya, articulated by spokesperson Victor Karoki. With 20 such projects underway at any time, the organization prioritizes regular evaluations and maintenance to ensure their places of worship are welcoming and safe.

The culmination of these efforts is particularly poignant as Jehovah’s Witnesses around the world prepare for the annual commemoration of Jesus Christ’s death, with the Umoja Kingdom Hall being readied for this significant event. The involvement of volunteers like Wanjiku not only enhances their skill sets but also contributes to a sense of purpose and community engagement, reflecting a model of constructive collaboration and empowerment.