This archive report was first published on 16 December 2019.
December 16, 2019
Kenya is grappling with a severe shortage of skilled engineers, which has resulted in a string of building collapses and loss of lives. In response, the government has announced plans to reinforce building codes and procedures to curb substandard construction.
Transport, Infrastructure, Housing, Urban Development and Public Works Chief Administrative Secretary (CAS) Dr. Chris Obure has called on the Engineers Board of Kenya (EBK) and the Institute of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) to propose necessary amendments to the Engineers Act of 2011. The proposed changes aim to lock out unlicensed contractors from the practice and ensure that only qualified professionals are involved in construction projects.
The recent collapse of a seven-story building in Nairobi has highlighted the need for a national safety audit on buildings in Kenya. The Institute of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) has urged the government to initiate this audit to identify and address potential safety risks.
IEK President Collins Juma emphasized the importance of providing necessary skills to ensure buildings are safe for occupation. He stated that the institute will work with the government to provide the necessary training and expertise.
Engineers have pointed out that Kenya is facing an alarming skill gap in the industry, which is hindering the country's development agenda. They are calling on the government to create incentives to increase the number of professional engineers while restricting quacks from the industry.
According to experts, Kenya can boost industry capacity by leveraging on training, internships, and developing engineering curriculum for Kenyan students from the elementary level of education. The current ratio of graduate engineers to practicing professionals is 20 to 3, with quacks infiltrating the field.
EBK Chairman Erastus Mwongera has supported the proposals to tighten rules governing the transport, infrastructure, housing, and urban development sectors.
