The Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) has announced the 31st International Convention, set to take place from October 29 to November 1, 2024, at the PrideInn Paradise Beach Resort and Spa in Mombasa. This year’s event will bring together engineers, policymakers, and industry leaders under the theme: “Industrialization for Economic Transformation and Employment Creation.”
The convention aims to explore how engineering can contribute to Kenya’s industrialization efforts, drive economic growth, create jobs, and position the country as a leader in Africa’s industrial landscape.
At the media launch, the Cabinet Secretary for Water, Sanitation, and Irrigation, Eng. Eric Mugaa, underscored the importance of engineers in driving national development. He emphasized that innovation and technology are key to Kenya’s economic transformation.
“Engineers are the true catalysts for development. From water infrastructure to industrial projects, engineering enables progress. Innovation is not just an option; it is a necessity in our fast-changing world,” said Eng. Mugaa. He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enhancing water, sanitation, and irrigation infrastructure, which are essential for agricultural growth and sustainable development.
IEK President, Eng. Shammah Kiteme, reiterated the central role of engineers in Kenya’s journey toward industrialization. He stressed that industrial growth is essential to achieving economic transformation and job creation.
“Industrialization is the engine that will drive our economic transformation and create employment for millions. Engineers are at the heart of this agenda, and this convention offers a platform to chart a way forward for sustainable and efficient industrial growth,” said Eng. Kiteme.
Eng. Kiteme noted that Kenya’s manufacturing sector, which contributed 9.2% to GDP in 2015, has since declined to around 7.7%. With the right policies and strategic investments, he expressed optimism that the sector could meet the Vision 2030 target of 15% GDP contribution by 2030.
He also called for shifting from a net-importing to a net-exporting model, emphasizing the need for local production and value addition as key pillars for sustainable industrialization.
During the media launch, Eng. Erastus K. Mwongera, Chairman of the Engineers Board of Kenya (EBK), highlighted efforts to align Kenya’s engineering standards with global best practices through the Washington Accord. This international agreement ensures that Kenyan engineers are recognized and accredited worldwide.
Eng. Mwongera also highlighted EBK’s focus on safety and capacity building through programs like the Graduate Engineers Internship Program (GEIP), which has successfully transitioned over 700 graduate engineers into professional practice
The 31st IEK International Convention is expected to attract more than 3,000 delegates, both in-person and virtual. Participants will engage in networking, knowledge sharing, and discussions on innovative solutions to shape Kenya’s industrial future.
IEK remains committed to promoting engineering excellence and empowering its members to contribute to national development. Through initiatives like this convention, the institution aims to ensure that engineering solutions play a pivotal role in transforming Kenya’s economy and building a prosperous and inclusive future.
