Download logoSkills development remains a key pillar in strengthening the economic resilience, self-reliance and wellbeing of Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) families by equipping dependants with practical competencies for employment and entrepreneurship.
The Military Wives Association of Kenya (MWAK), under the leadership of Chairlady Mrs Grace Kahariri, in partnership with Family Bank Limited and Family Group Foundation, on 10 September 2026, commissioned the 5th Cohort of the Tufuzu Construction Skills Training Programme at Terminus Hall, Embakasi Garrison.
Presided over by the Base Commander Moi Air Base, Brigadier Herbert Wafula, the 5th Cohort comprises 120 KDF dependants drawn from across the three Services. The programme, which commenced in 2023, has so far benefited 339 dependants through four previous cohorts.
The training is delivered through the TVET competency-based curriculum, focusing on Plumbing, Electrical Installation and ICT, complemented by financial literacy, to equip beneficiaries with practical competencies for employment and entrepreneurship.
Speaking during the ceremony, Brigadier Wafula commended MWAK, Family Bank and Family Group Foundation for sustaining the initiative, noting its contribution to the welfare and empowerment of KDF families. He urged the trainees to embrace discipline, excellence and integrity while making practical use of the skills acquired.
“We are not just training hands; we are shaping minds, building futures, and transforming our community and nation at large,” said Brigadier Wafula as he officially declared the programme open.
The remarks of MWAK Chairlady Mrs Grace Kahariri were delivered by Mrs Naomi Mwinyikai, the head of Housing Pillar, who represented her during the ceremony. Mrs Kahariri thanked Family Bank and Family Group Foundation for their continued partnership and challenged the beneficiaries to embrace the theme “Kujifunza, Kujiajiri, Kuinua Familia” — Learning, Creating Employment and Uplifting the Family.
“Cohort 1 was a dream. Cohort 5 is proof that dreams work when we commit to sustainability.” Mrs Kahariri urged the trainees to approach the programme with discipline, excellence and unity, and use their skills to transform their families’ economic circumstances.
Mr John Wairimu, Executive Director, Family Group Foundation, and Ms Phyllis Kimani, Chief Retail Banking Officer, Family Bank, reiterated the partners’ commitment to youth empowerment and investment in human capital.
“At Family Bank, we believe that one of the most powerful investments we can make is in human capital. When we equip young people with practical, market-driven technical and soft skills, we do more than prepare them for employment. We empower them to build livelihoods, support their families, contribute to the economy and shape their own future.”
The Commandant DEFTEC, Brigadier Ismail Noor, highlighted the importance of discipline, technical excellence and practical learning in preparing the beneficiaries for the working environment.
“Skills development is not merely about acquiring a qualification; it is about gaining the competence, discipline and confidence to apply what you have learnt and create a meaningful future for yourself, your family and the nation,” he said.
The programme is a collaborative initiative between MWAK, Family Bank, Family Group Foundation, DEFTEC and Nairobi Institute of Technology (NIT), aimed at bridging the gap between technical training and market demands while creating sustainable pathways to employment and entrepreneurship for KDF dependants.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Defence - Kenya.
