Isiolo County – In an industry where heavy machinery is often associated with men, Florance Adhiambo Otieno is proving that women can operate the same powerful machines and excel.
Working as a plant operator on the Isiolo road construction project in Garbatulla, Adhiambo has built a career operating heavy rollers, taking on responsibilities traditionally dominated by men.
Adhiambo Thriving in Male-Dominated Field
Originally from Kisumu County, Adhiambo is currently part of the team working on Lot 2 of the road project, covering the stretch from kilometre 77 at Kulamawe to Modogashe.
The road construction is part of the World Bank-funded Horn of Africa Gateway Development Project (HOAGDP)
She told Chams Media that her specific assignment involves operating different types of rollers, including a rubber roller, which she was using during the construction of a chipping section at kilometre 102.
For Adhiambo, the job is about much more than operating heavy machinery. It has become a lifeline for her family and an opportunity to challenge perceptions about the kind of work women can do.
How Project Helps Adhiambo’s Family
She revealed that the job had transformed her family’s financial situation, particularly after the death of her father. Adhiambo explained that she was raised by her mother and, as the firstborn, took on the responsibility of supporting the family.
“I lost my father, but since then, I have not felt the burden as much because of this job. I thank God because I can support my family,” she said.
The plant operator disclosed that her earnings had enabled her to build a house for her mother and improve her own circumstances.
She is also paying school fees for her two younger siblings, who are both in high school, ensuring they continue with their education.
What Keeps Adhiambo Going
Adhiambo said these responsibilities motivate her to work hard because she wants her mother to live comfortably while also securing a better future for herself.
Beyond the personal benefits, she believes the road project is creating opportunities for residents of Garbatulla and neighbouring communities.
She observed that businesses along the construction corridor were expanding as the project progressed, with some residents taking advantage of the increased activity to establish new enterprises.
Adhiambo recalled meeting a woman who initially prepared small meals and delivered them to workers at the construction site.
Adhiambo Trailblazing for Other Women
With time, the woman established a shop, demonstrating how the project was creating opportunities beyond direct employment.
The experience has reinforced her belief that infrastructure development can transform communities by creating opportunities for small businesses and local entrepreneurs.
However, perhaps her most important contribution is the example she is setting for other women who might be interested in joining the construction industry.
Adhiambo acknowledged that operating heavy machinery remains a male-dominated occupation but insisted that women should not allow such perceptions to discourage them.
Adhiambo’s Advice to Fellow Women
She urged young women to pursue technical training, learn how to operate construction equipment and actively seek opportunities in the sector.
“Women should not say that certain jobs belong to men. There is nothing that men can do that women cannot do. What a man can do, a woman can do even better,” she said.
She also encouraged girls from financially disadvantaged backgrounds not to abandon their ambitions because they cannot afford expensive colleges.
According to her, road construction offers rewarding opportunities, and young women should be willing to learn, acquire the necessary skills and compete for available positions.
Through her work, Adhiambo is not only helping build a road connecting communities but also challenging stereotypes and showing other women that they, too, can take charge of heavy machinery.
