Machakos Women Acquire Construction Skills, Breaking New Ground in the Industry

MACHAKOS—In an inspiring shift from traditional roles, women in Machakos are actively engaging in the construction industry, gaining skills in painting, tiling, and carpentry. Christine Gitonga, a 29-year-old who initially trained in culinary arts, has found a new calling as a volunteer construction worker at Serene Park Estate, leveraging her skills to contribute to community development.

According to Kenya News Agency, spokesperson for Jehovah’s Witnesses in Kenya, the organization’s initiative to involve women like Gitonga in construction is not only empowering them with valuable skills but also contributing significantly to local infrastructure. Gitonga, who has been part of the construction team since 2020, has adeptly learned various tasks, including painting, tiling, and installing kitchen fixtures, under the guidance of experienced volunteers.

The project at Serene Park Estate, which aims to complete construction by March 29, 2024, is part of a broader effort to create facilities that will serve as translation offices for spiritual publications. Gitonga, alongside more than five other women, has been instrumental in ensuring the timely progress of this initiative, which values precision and attention to detail—qualities that she and her female colleagues abundantly bring to their tasks.

Training and safety are paramount for these women, who undergo thorough orientation and learn to adhere strictly to safety protocols to prevent on-site accidents. The experience has been transformative for Gitonga, who finds joy in contributing to her community and mastering new skills that enhance her self-sufficiency and confidence.

Moreover, the involvement of women in construction is breaking social barriers, fostering a spirit of equality and collaboration. Gitonga’s work alongside her husband, Joshua, an assistant supervisor, exemplifies the collaborative spirit that enriches their professional and personal relationship.

As the completion and commissioning of the Serene Park Estate project approach, the contribution of women like Gitonga is a testament to the changing dynamics in industries traditionally dominated by men. Their work not only supports the translation of vital literature into local languages but also showcases the potential for women to excel in diverse fields, bringing them closer to achieving gender equality in the workforce.