BioTank Africa, NCA Train Over 400 Artisans in Kitengela as Nationwide Skills Drive Begins

KITENGELA, Kenya More than 400 fundis, plumbers and contractors have been trained and accredited in Kitengela as BioTank Africa launched a nationwide initiative aimed at closing Kenya's technical skills gap in wastewater management.

The training, held at Danka Plaza, marks the largest edition of BioTank Africa's Fundi Forum and the beginning of a county-by-county programme targeting thousands of construction artisans across the country.

The initiative comes as Kenya's rapid urbanisation continues to increase demand for reliable onsite wastewater systems, particularly in fast-growing towns where municipal sewer networks remain limited.

According to data cited at the forum, only about nine per cent of Kenya's population — roughly five million people — is connected to a municipal sewer network. This means onsite sanitation remains the primary wastewater solution for the vast majority of Kenyans.

At the same time, data from the National Construction Authority (NCA) indicates that while more than 90 per cent of Kenyan developments rely on onsite wastewater systems, only about 30 per cent of local construction artisans have formal technical training.

NCA Accreditation for Fundis

The Kitengela forum sought to address that gap through practical training covering three-chamber biodigester installation, maintenance and site safety.

Participating fundis and plumbers also received official technical accreditation certificates issued by the National Construction Authority after completing the structured training modules.

An NCA representative said formal accreditation is critical to improving construction and sanitation standards while creating clearer professional pathways for artisans.

The authority said partnerships with industry players can help formalise practical skills already held by thousands of artisans while ensuring that installation, safety and environmental standards are consistently applied.

Why Kitengela?

BioTank Africa selected Kitengela as the starting point for the expanded programme because of the town's rapid real estate development and limited municipal sewer coverage.

The company says the situation reflects a wider trend across Kenya, where emerging urban centres are experiencing rapid construction while property developers increasingly depend on decentralised wastewater solutions.

The county-by-county approach is intended to take technical training closer to the artisans working in these expanding markets.

From Training to Business Opportunities

Beyond technical instruction, the Fundi Forum included business clinics designed to help artisans formalise their enterprises, improve client acquisition and explore opportunities in the growing wastewater sector.

The programme also featured live biodigester installation demonstrations and one-on-one sessions with technical experts.

BioTank Africa Founder and General Manager Edwin Kirugo said fundis play a critical role in ensuring wastewater systems are correctly installed and maintained.

“Our fundis are our primary brand ambassadors on the ground, making sure every installation protects public health and meets strict quality standards,” Kirugo said.

He said taking the forum county by county would allow the company to deliver technical training directly to areas where construction activity is expanding rapidly.

BioTank Africa Marks Eight Years in Kenya

The Kitengela forum comes as BioTank Africa marks eight years in the Kenyan market.

The company says the latest initiative builds on its recent expansion, including the launch of its “Kuwa Mbele Jenga Easy” campaign in April and the opening of its Nakuru branch.

BioTank Africa also plans to establish a nationwide distributor network as it expands its presence across the country.

Now in its fourth year, the Fundi Forum is moving from localised training sessions to a mobile county-by-county model.

The company says the long-term goal is to build an accredited network of skilled artisans capable of delivering modern wastewater solutions safely and to consistent technical standards.

The next forums are expected to target other rapidly growing urban centres across Kenya.

Key Facts

400+ fundis, plumbers and contractors trained in Kitengela
90%+ of Kenyan developments reportedly rely on onsite wastewater systems
30% of local construction artisans have formal technical training, according to NCA data cited at the forum
9% of Kenya's population is connected to a municipal sewer network, according to data cited from the Water Services Regulatory Board
Participating artisans received NCA technical accreditation
Training included biodigester installation, maintenance and site safety
The programme will expand county by county across Kenya

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