Melanie Wituko is a classic case of beauty and brains. After being crowned Miss Tourism Western Province in 2003, Melanie went on to set up her own construction firm, Suleco Company Ltd, in 2008 and then went on to work on note worthy projects such as the Nzoia Bridge which has had a major impact on travel in the region .
It is then no wonder that Melanie has been declared the female contractor of the year, a prize that comes with a KShs 1 million.
The Female Constructor of the year award was open to construction firms with at least 51% shareholding by a woman and saw hundreds of women apply. Melanie emerged winner after judging.
In an event hosted by the National Construction Authority (NCA) at the Golf Hotel in Kakamega County; Melanie received her cash prize from key sponsor Rhino Cement; a brand from ARM Cement. The Governor of Kakamega County was also present during this event that is really a partnership of ARM and NCA seeking to celebrate female
contractors. The award also seeks to see women contractors bid competitively with their male counterparts in a field that is considered a male domain and significantly took place during the International Women’s month.
“There is need for the government and others in the private sector to join in similar efforts by ensuring that quality contractors receive recognition and support in order to foster competitiveness.†commented Rhino Cement representative Douglas Miheso at the gala.
The International Women’s month takes place every year in March and sees the world celebrate women’s achievements and efforts in addition to spotlighting their struggles.