- The summit will feature exhibition of work by the constructors at KICC between July 16 and 18
- It is expected to be the largest and most professional gathering of international construction professionals
Women in construction have received a boost after the government announced that it will facilitate their access to soft credit.
The move is to help them secure tenders for construction of the affordable housing programme.
Land CS Alice Wahome said the government will engage lenders and banks to help women contractors access credit on soft terms.
She spoke on the sidelines of a meeting organised by President William Ruto’s advisor on women affairs Harriette Chigai.
The meeting set the stage for a forthcoming summit for Women in Construction sector.
The summit will feature exhibition of work by the constructors at KICC between July 16 and 18.
It is expected to be the largest and most professional gathering of international construction professionals.
It is expected to be the gateway to Africa’s emerging markets, an ideal global platform to meet, network and conduct business.
“We are bringing women in the sector together to take advantage of the affordable housing agenda because the programme is driven in a public-private partnership fashion,” Wahome said.
“There are opportunities reserved for the youth, women, and persons living with disability and other vulnerable groups. We want these categories to come out strongly and take advantage of the opportunities.”
Wahome said the projects have numerous tender opportunities that create a long chain of jobs.
She said the easing of credit will help young women who are not financially endowed to competitively bid and get tenders.
“The summit brings together, not just women in the sector but also banks. In a collaborative way, we must find a way of relaxing means of accessing the money to build the capacity of the women to benefit from these opportunities," Wahome said.
“You may not have money, but we will show you where you can get the monies in affordable manner. The government is keen on ensuring women take up chances and meaningfully participate in the project because it is a PPP driven.”
The exhibition will serve as a launch pad, providing participants with a unique opportunity to showcase their potential in the market.
“Both Exhibitors and Visitors at Africa Build Show will get three full days to network and discuss partnership agreements, sign agency and distributorship contracts and develop new market strategies and cooperation procedures.”