Over 400 artisans get NCA certification as BioTank Africa rolls out nationwide fundi training drive in Kitengela

Over 400 local fundis, plumbers and contractors received official National Construction Authority (NCA) technical certification at Kitengela town, Kajiado County, as BioTank Africa convened the largest edition yet of its Fundi Forum.

The event marked the official launch of BioTank Africa's county-by-county initiative to upskill thousands of construction tradespeople. Kitengela was strategically selected due to its rapid real estate expansion paired with the absence of widespread municipal sewer coverage, a dynamic common across Kenya's emerging urban centres where property developers rely heavily on decentralised wastewater solutions.

Water Services Regulatory Board data shows only about 9 per cent of Kenya's population — roughly 5 million people — is connected to a municipal sewer network, leaving onsite sanitation as the primary solution nationwide.

Edwin Kirugo, founder and general manager of BioTank Africa, said the company's artisans are its primary brand ambassadors on the ground, ensuring every installation protects public health and meets strict quality standards. The event also marks a key milestone for the company as it celebrates eight years in the Kenyan market.

Data from the NCA indicates that while over 90% of Kenyan developments rely on onsite wastewater systems, only 30% of local construction artisans hold formal technical training. Participating artisans completed structured practical modules and were awarded official technical accreditation certificates issued directly by the NCA.

James Karatu, president of the Real Building Workers Association of Kenya, urged fundis to see themselves as agents of accountability and compliance, and cautioned artisans on the need for financial literacy.