Kenya’s engineering technology professionals are calling for
the full implementation of the Kenya Engineering Technology Registration Board
(KETRB) Act.
The board, established in 2016, was meant to regulate and
standardize the work of engineering technologists and technicians in the
construction sector.
In petitions submitted to key government offices, including
the Head of Public Service and the Vice - Chairperson of the Kenya Engineering Technology, Bibiye Mahmoud made the
appeal.
Mahmoud, spoke on behalf of the Consolidated Voice of
Engineering Technology Professionals.
She said members may consider industrial action if the
Engineering Technology Act, No. 23 of 2016, is not implemented.
The group said the law provides legal recognition for their
profession but has not been fully enforced since it was introduced in
Parliament nine years ago.
They also raised concern that KETRB lacks a proper structure
and adequate funding, which limits its ability to carry out its mandate
effectively.
“This law recognizes our profession and established the
Kenya Engineering Technology Registration Board (KETRB) to oversee it,” Mahmoud
said.
“The Supreme Court of Kenya later affirmed that Parliament
created two distinct regulatory frameworks for the engineering field.”
She added that the delayed implementation of the Act
continues to affect their professional growth.
Mahmoud spoke during a peaceful procession along Parliament
Buildings and Harambee Avenue on Monday.
The professionals said the delay has exposed them to career
challenges and limited participation in key national projects.
They noted that weak regulation has created gaps in
oversight within the construction sector, affecting quality and safety
standards.
“The Public Service Commission issued career guidelines that
require our qualifications to be approved by another board,” Mahmoud said.
“This situation disadvantages Bachelor of Technology
graduates and limits their progression.”
Engineering technology professionals, also known as
certified engineering technicians, include specialists in civil, mechanical,
and electrical fields.
They are registered and regulated by KETRB to uphold
professional standards and ethics.
Their work supports Kenya’s key development goals, including
infrastructure growth and industrialization.
For nearly a decade, they have been advocating for formal
recognition, better career opportunities, and the full operationalization of
the 2016 Act.
