Odinga criticized the allocation of engineering roles to foreign professionals, linking the issue to 2018 reports highlighting Chinese firms' growing influence in Kenyan infrastructure contracts. The African Union envoy for infrastructure emphasized that prioritizing local engineers would foster economic growth through job creation and business opportunities.
The opposition leader met with engineers at his Capitol Hill office, agreeing to submit their petition to President Uhuru Kenyatta. He referenced China's model of training engineers at all levels, stating, "Nations that invest in local talent, like China, achieve stronger economic outcomes." Odinga also called for engineers to address corruption to ensure public funds are used effectively.
Nathaniel Matalanga, secretary general of the Institute of Engineers of Kenya, reiterated the need for government investment in engineering education. "Policy alignment to create employment and leverage technical expertise is critical for national development," he said, echoing concerns raised in 2018 about foreign contractor dominance.
