Kenyan welding experts raise alarm over shortage of skilled labour

Kenyan welding experts are raising serious concerns about the growing shortage of skilled welders, which they say is impacting both the local and international industries.

The call for urgent government intervention comes as stakeholders highlight critical issues related to inadequate compensation and a lack of investment in training programs.

Stephen Lyoba, Founder and CEO of the East African Institute of Welding, highlighted the pressing need for improved funding for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions.

According to Lyoba, while Kenya has a burgeoning young population with the potential to excel in the welding sector, the current training facilities are significantly under-equipped.

This inadequacy hampers the development of standardized skills and affects the competitiveness of Kenyan welders on both local and global stages.

"The shortage of skilled welders is not just a local issue; it's a global concern. Our training institutions need more support to provide quality education and hands-on experience that meets international standards. Without this, our welders will continue to lag behind their global counterparts," Lyoba said

He added that the problem is exacerbated by the fact that Kenyan welders, despite their potential, often face poor remuneration.

He also noted that this disparity is particularly troubling given the high global demand for welding professionals.

Lyoba argued that addressing compensation issues is crucial for retaining skilled workers and attracting new talent into the field.

Adding weight to these concerns, Ronny Friedl, CEO of CTCWeld, an international training and consulting firm, emphasized the critical nature of the knowledge gap within the welding sector.

Friedl highlighted that many welders lack fundamental skills, such as setting up welding machines correctly, which results in quality issues and safety risks.

"I've seen firsthand how a lack of proper training leads to significant challenges in welding quality. The biggest issue is the knowledge gap. When welders are not trained properly, it affects the overall quality of their work and can lead to dangerous accidents. It's essential that we address this gap to ensure safety and high standards," Friedl said

He noted that the situation is compounded by the global demand for skilled welders, particularly in industries such as shipbuilding, manufacturing, and infrastructure development.

He further indicated that with over 100 welding job opportunities currently available across Eastern Europe and the Middle East, the need for well-trained welders is more urgent than ever.

However, despite the high demand, many Kenyan welders are unable to meet international standards due to the lack of adequate training and resources.

In light of these challenges, Lyoba called on the Kenyan government to take decisive action.

He urged the government to allocate more funds to TVET institutions and support initiatives that enhance the skills of young welders.

Additionally, Lyoba advocated for the use of the Youth Fund to facilitate the transition of Kenyan welders to international job markets, thereby addressing the global shortage of skilled labour.

"The government has a crucial role to play in developing the welding sector. By investing in education and improving working conditions, we can build a stronger, more competitive workforce that can thrive both locally and globally," Lyoba added

The call for reform in the welding sector reflects broader concerns about the need for better vocational training and support for skilled trades in Kenya.

As the demand for skilled welders continues to rise, addressing these issues will be key to ensuring that Kenya can meet both current and future industry needs.