The Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) has launched the 31st Annual International Convention that seeks to highlight the critical role of engineers in driving innovation, creating jobs, and fostering sustainable national development.
Speaking during a media launch held on Tuesday in Nairobi, the Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Water Sanitation and Irrigation, Eng. Eric Mugaa, stated that one of the government’s key objectives is to build capacity, which is vital for industrialisation.
“We believe in the immense potential of engineers, and the ministry supports policies that would prioritise their overall talent,” he said.
The CS urged all stakeholders to align themselves with the country’s economic agenda by contributing to job creation and enhancing economic productivity.
He revealed that engineers were the true catalysts of development since they delivered critical projects that drive economic transformation in Kenya.
“Across the globe, engineering has been the backbone of every major industrial development for innovation,” said Mugaa.
The CS further said that engineers were not only at the forefront of innovation but also play a pivotal role in driving economic transformation in various sectors.
He emphasized that engineering is integral for economic growth and called for discussions to develop strong frameworks to support the economic sector.
“A strong regulatory framework will enable engineers to foster innovation. We as policymakers must continue to review and reform systems that govern engineering in Kenya,” said Mugaa.
The CS said that the integration of innovative technologies in engineering is a necessity to ensure productivity in the economic sector.
“Furthermore, the development of efficient technological systems is necessary to ensure food security, which is a critical pillar of the country’s economic agenda,” he added.
Mugaa further said that investing in these systems will in return strengthen agricultural productivity and lay the groundwork for job creation, particularly in rural areas.
On the issue of gender equity, he noted that engineering is all-inclusive as it promotes creativity and innovation.
The CS urged various IEK partners to invest in the next generation by providing the youth with training and mentorship daily.
“Through internship programmes, we could equip the youth with skills needed to address the challenges of tomorrow,” he stated.
IEK president Eng. Shammah Kiteme noted that the 31st International Convention was a platform for engineers to engage in meaningful dialogue and propose solutions to the challenges facing Kenya’s industrialisation journey.
“Industrialisation is the engine that would drive our economic transformation and create employment for millions. Engineers are central to this agenda, and this convention offers an opportunity to chart a path forward, ensuring that our country’s industries grow sustainably and efficiently,” said Kiteme.
He further stressed the importance of shifting from a model of net importing to net exporting, advocating for strategies that promote local production and value addition.
“Industrialization is the engine that will drive our economic transformation and create employment for millions. Engineers are central to this agenda, and this convention offers an opportunity to chart the way forward in ensuring that our country’s industries grow sustainably and efficiently,” added Kiteme.
The Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) is committed to promoting the engineering profession as a leading voice in shaping the country’s development. This year’s convention underscores the vital importance of engineering in building a prosperous and inclusive future for all Kenyans, reinforcing IEK’s commitment to leading the discourse on engineering solutions for national growth.
By Manu Mumba and Cynthia Wanjiru
