List of accredited institutions offering catering in Kenya

Finding the right catering college in Kenya can make or break your culinary career prospects. This comprehensive directory features verified institutions offering CDACC and KNEC-accredited catering programs across Kenya, helping you make an informed decision about your hospitality education. We’ve compiled essential details about each institution to help you choose the perfect match for your career goals and budget.

Catering is one of the most in-demand courses in Kenya, especially with the growth of the hospitality and tourism industry. If you’re passionate about food preparation, customer service, or running your own food business, catering could be the perfect path for you. But where should you study? This guide offers a trusted list of accredited institutions offering catering in Kenya, so you can enroll in a course that’s recognized by employers and industry regulators.

Whether you’re a Form Four leaver, job seeker, or career switcher, this article helps you choose the best place to start your catering career.

Why Study Catering?

Catering courses teach you the skills needed to work in restaurants, hotels, event planning, or even run your own food business. You’ll learn food production, hygiene, customer service, nutrition, and menu planning.

Career options with catering training:

• Chef or cook in a hotel or restaurant

• Event caterer

• Kitchen supervisor

• Restaurant or food truck owner

• Hospitality service provider

Levels of Catering Courses Offered in Kenya

Before choosing an institution, understand the levels of catering courses available:

• Artisan Certificate in Catering (for D– and below in KCSE)

• Craft Certificate in Food and Beverage/Catering (for D plain and above)

• Diploma in Catering and Hotel Management (for C– and above)

List of Accredited Institutions Offering Catering in Kenya

Here are top institutions that are TVETA-accredited and recognized for offering catering and hospitality courses:

1. Kenya Utalii College – Nairobi

• Type: Public, Premier Hospitality Institution

• Courses Offered: Certificate & Diploma in Food Production, Food & Beverage Service

• Accreditation: TVETA, Ministry of Tourism

• Known For: Top-notch training, international links

• Location: Ruaraka, Nairobi

• Website: utalii.ac.ke

2. Nairobi Technical Training Institute

• Courses: Artisan, Craft, and Diploma in Food & Beverage Production and Sales

• Exam Body: KNEC

• Location: Ngara, Nairobi

• Accreditation: TVETA

• Known For: Strong technical foundation and government funding eligibility

3. Mombasa Technical Training Institute

• Courses: Craft and Diploma in Catering and Accommodation

• Accreditation: TVETA, KNEC

• Location: Mombasa

• Why Choose: Coastal training with real hotel exposure

4. Kabete National Polytechnic

• Courses: Craft Certificate & Diploma in Food & Beverage Production

• Accreditation: TVETA, KNEC

• Location: Nairobi

• Bonus: Offers HELB and government capitation

5. Kisumu National Polytechnic

• Courses: Catering and Hotel Management (Craft & Diploma level)

• Accreditation: TVETA

• Location: Kisumu

• Reputation: Large, well-equipped institution with wide course range

6. Boma International Hospitality College (BIHC)

• Type: Private, industry-linked with Swiss support

• Courses: Culinary Arts, Food Production

• Accreditation: TVETA, AHLEI

• Location: South C, Nairobi

• Website: bihc.ac.ke

7. Cooperative University of Kenya – Karen Campus

• Courses: Certificate & Diploma in Catering and Hotel Management

• Accreditation: Commission for University Education & TVETA

• Location: Karen, Nairobi

• Best For: Those looking to combine business with hospitality training

8. Rift Valley Technical Training Institute (RVTTI)

• Courses: Food and Beverage Production and Sales (Craft and Diploma)

• Accreditation: TVETA, KNEC

• Location: Eldoret

• Strength: Excellent practical training and workshops

9. NYS Catering Schools (e.g., Gilgil, Naivasha)

• Courses: Artisan & Craft in Catering and Food Service

• Accreditation: NITA, KNEC

• Location: Across the country

• Best For: Government-sponsored hands-on training

10. Private TVET Colleges (Selected Examples)

These are also accredited and ideal for flexible, affordable training:

• Zetech University – Hospitality Certificate Courses

• Vera Beauty and Fashion College – Catering & Events

• Sensei Institute of Technology – Catering and Events Management

• Kenya Institute of Professional Studies (KIPS) – Food & Beverage

Always confirm TVETA status via TVETA.go.ke

How to Apply for Catering Courses

1. Choose an accredited institution

2. Visit their website or admission office

3. Submit your KCSE/KCPE results, ID, and passport photos

4. Pay registration fees (if required)

5. Apply for HELB or bursaries (if available)

Tip: Public TVETs offer subsidized fees and are eligible for government capitation.

Requirements to Join Catering Courses

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right school from this list of accredited institutions offering catering in Kenya ensures you get quality training and a recognized certificate. Whether your dream is to become a chef, work in a five-star hotel, or run your own food business, start with the right foundation.

Tip: Visit the institution physically if possible, ask about industrial attachment support, and always confirm accreditation before enrolling.