Jobs boom in Kisumu county due to influx of cash for projects

By DENNIS ONYANGO

KISUMU, KENYA: The ongoing multi-million shilling projects in Kisumu County have seen a number of unemployed youth gain meaningful sources of income.

Heightened property development has attracted stone masons and transporters of building materials who have pitched camp next to Kondele Police Station to exploit the opportunity.

The increased fortunes have lured women who were not used to construction work to join men not only in building of new structures but also in renovation of major roads and highways.

Those contracted as casual workers earn between Sh300-Sh500 while their counterparts in road construction pocket an average of Sh400- Sh600 per day. “I used to work in a hotel in town but I joined this work two months ago when a friend informed me it was better paying,” said Mary Atieno a resident.

With the Roads ministry setting a target to complete the Sh5.8 billion Nyamasaria by-pass by 2015, residents are hopeful the project will change their lives greatly.

Income doubled

The locals are not leaving anything to chance and are making efforts to tap the benefits of the initiative.

Some of them have established kiosks, while others sell foodstuff at  construction sites when workers break for meals. Others benefitting from the upgrade are those ferrying water and performing other casual jobs.

But the facelift has caused traffic problems, forcing residents to contend with what comes with the growth of a city.

The situation has however been a blessing to boda boda operators who ferry those rushing to and from work.

Daniel Obiero said his fortunes have almost doubled particularly during morning hours. “I now make Sh700 by 8am up from the Sh300 I used to get,” he said.

Chairman, Kisumu Business Coalition Israel Agina said the upgrade has been an ‘eye-opener’ to the youth. “The initiative will reduce crime related to idleness and unemployment,” he said.

Governor Jacktone Ranguma recently said many investors are warming up to the area, a situation expected to provide more employment opportunities.

County Executive Member in charge of Planning, Roads and Public works Vincent Kodera said the Sh4 billion city restructuring initiative set to begin in December would create even more job opportunities.

Others benefitting from the unprecedented development include landlords, land owners and property agents.