Kenya launches review of construction laws to boost safety, standards
The IEK welcomes the latest initiative by the National Construction Authority (NCA) aimed at enhancing safety and accountability in Kenya’s construction industry. This development comes at a critical time when concerns over structural failures and non-compliance have underscored the urgent need for reform.
Speaking during the launch Cabinet Secretary for Lands, Public Works, Housing, and Urban Development, Hon. Alice Wahome, noted that the review aims to strengthen the legal framework to address industry challenges such as non-compliance and structural collapses, align the NCA Act with the Constitution of Kenya, and adopt international construction standards and best practices.
The committee chaired by Adv. Brian Otieno is expected to engage stakeholders from across the construction industry, including engineers, architects, contractors and developers, before drafting amendments to the Act. Once finalized, the proposed reforms will be submitted to Parliament for approval.
Key priorities in the review include; curbing structural failures, introducing stricter penalties to support quality assurance inspections, and enforcing mandatory technical inspections under the Building Code, that took effect on March 1, 2025.
Representing IEK at the launch included Eng. Jacton Mwembe – Hon. Secretary, Eng. Catherine Munyi – IEK representative to the Board of the National Construction Authority, and Eng. David Jomeli.
