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Lessons from the Mjengo to embrace in 2024: Happy New Year

 Working in the construction field AKA mjengo is like attending the world's most practical school of life lessons. First and foremost, it teaches the undeniable power of teamwork. Trying to build something substantial without a crew is like attempting to juggle bricks—it might work for a second, but eventually, you'll need a hand. As we dive into 2024, we must keep embracing the spirit of teamwork and togetherness.

Construction sites are like giant, real-life LEGO projects where everyone has a specific role, from the architect who dreams up the design to the kagirl who cleans offices and fetches tea but somehow becomes the motivational cornerstone of the team. You quickly learn that collaboration isn't just a buzzword; it's the glue holding those bricks (and your sanity) together.

Moreover, construction work is a masterclass in adaptability and creative problem-solving. You start your day with a blueprint, a plan etched in stone (well, paper), but the moment you step on the site, reality hits like a wrecking ball. Unexpected issues pop up like Wamaku at a random person's Iftar during Swaum or just random surprise guests at a housewarming party. It's the kind of environment that teaches you to think on your feet—sometimes literally when navigating a muddy construction site.

If life were a construction project, flexibility would be the most valuable tool in your belt. Plus, you'll become a wizard at finding solutions that make the seemingly impossible possible, like convincing a stubborn doorframe to fit or discovering that duct tape is the real MVP of the toolbox.

Here are some key lessons in summary:

  1. Teamwork and Collaboration: Young people learn the importance of effective communication, coordination, and teamwork to achieve common goals.

  2. Problem-Solving Skills: Construction workers learn to think on their feet, adapt to changing circumstances, and develop effective problem-solving skills.

  3. Time Management: Strict project timelines in construction teach young people the significance of managing time efficiently. They learn to prioritize tasks, set deadlines, and work within schedules to meet project milestones.

  4. Attention to Detail: Mjengo workers develop a keen eye for details, understanding that even small errors can have significant consequences in the construction process.

  5. Physical Fitness and Health: Construction jobs often involve physical labor, contributing to better physical fitness. Free gym if I may say. Young workers learn the importance of maintaining their health and well-being to perform effectively on the job.

  6. Safety Awareness: Construction sites make workers develop a heightened awareness of safety measures and the importance of adhering to regulations to ensure a secure working environment.

  7. Career Development: Working in construction offers diverse career paths. Young workers gain exposure to various roles, allowing them to explore and identify areas of interest for potential long-term career development. Yani plumbing, civil engineering, water engineering, mechanics, electricals, health and safety, surveying, social work name them all.

Overall, the lessons learned in the construction field go beyond technical skills, providing a holistic foundation for personal and professional growth.

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