Makueni has signed a deal with the Institution of Engineers of Kenya to improve building safety, enforce construction standards and offer technical support in ongoing and future projects.

The deal, signed during a visit by engineers to Governor Mutula Kilonzo Junior, aims to align county works with national engineering rules while also helping local engineers build their skills.

“This partnership is an opportunity we have long waited for to tap into expert knowledge from professional engineers,” said Mutula.  

He said the deal would also help tackle an ongoing row over the affordable housing project in the county.

“I have asked the Institution to help resolve a dispute around the quality of materials being used in the housing programme. We need expert input before we take any action,” he noted.

“This will not only ensure good buildings but also guarantee that these buildings are safe for everybody to use, which is a mandate of all of us,” he noted.

President of the engineers’ body Shammah Kiteme said the deal forms part of a wider push to support counties with technical guidance and tools, including a new site inspection handbook being drawn up with the National Construction Authority and the Council of Governors. 

“IEK is very deliberate in working with counties, starting with the Council of Governors, because we understand that devolution strengthens implementation in key sectors,” said Kiteme.

He noted that lack of oversight had allowed poor standards to thrive in the sector. 

“Standards are not being observed, and we want all 47 counties to onboard this essential tool to ensure quality and public safety,” noted Kiteme. 

He said the collaboration would help bring back professionalism and restore trust in public projects. 

“This is good for the country. We are making sure we get quality standards in counties all over the country,” he added. By David Njaaga | The Standard