I SS UE 018

PUBLISHED BY THE INSTITUTION OF ENGINEERS OF KENYA | July 2024

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In this Issue

8 18 23
IEK's Proposal to the Government: Taxation Policies and Their Impact Strategies for Transformation of
Priorities for Engineering on Kenya's Development Kenyan Agriculture.
Advancement

34
3 Message from the Editor

5 Message from the President

7 Message from the Honorary Secretary

Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)
Mechanism for Engineering Contracts, 8 IEK's Proposal to the Government: Priorities for Engineering Advancement

opportunities and challenges for 12 Empowerment and Professional Development In Kenyan Engineering
Engineers. 14 A Vision For Kenya: The Political Economy of Transformation

18 Taxation Policies and Their Impact on Kenya's Development

20 Settling Pending Bills

50
23 Strategies for Transformation of Kenyan Agriculture.

27 The Role of Kenyan Engineers In Infrastructure Development Challenges, Achievements and Future Prospects

The Triple Blessings of Competency Based Education, Washighton Accord and Artificial Intelligence in Engineering
29
Enhancing Kenya’s Food Security Education in Kenya.

by Leveraging on Excess 34
Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Mechanism for Engineering Contracts, opportunities and challenges for
Engineers.
Electricity during off-Peak Hours
Climate Change Against National Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction Commitment for Developing Countries - Adaptation by
41
Power Utilities A case study for Kenya

45 Comparative Tariff Assessment: Grid vs. Self-Generated Electricity in Kenya

50 Enhancing Kenya’s Food Security by Leveraging on Excess Electricity during off-Peak Hours

Role of Engineers in Addressing

65 54

58
The Carbon Gap in Sustainable Housing and Infrastructure Development, A Lifecycle Approach for Climate Change and Adaptation
in Developing Countries

Current State of Engineering, Initiatives for Improving Skills and Professional Development Initiatives

Climate Change 60
Sustainable Energy Silutions in Kenya’s Energy Needs: Advances in solar, wind, and geothermal energy projects, their
implementation, and benefits

61 Digital Transformation in Engineering: The Role of Technology in Modern Engineering Practices

63 Innovative Engineering Projects in Water Supply, Irrigation and Sanitation

65 Role of Engineers in Addressing Climate Change

69 66

68
Kenya Association of Manufacturers: Strategies for Transforming Manufacturing in Kenya

Role of HVAC and AC in Building Designs

The New Energy Landscape in Africa 69 The New Energy Landscape in Africa and Youthful Potential – the Time for Incremental Change is Over
and Youthful Potential – the Time for 70 Understanding the road Sector in Kenya
Incremental Change is Over
74 Student's Voices

77 IEK Membership Report

Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

1
 Call for Papers
Engineering in Kenya Magazine - Issue 019
PUBLISHER The Institution of Engineers of Kenya
The Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) publishes
EDITORIAL BOARD
Engineering in Kenya magazine, whose target audience
CHAIRPERSON Eng. Prof. Lawrence Gumbe includes engineering professionals, practitioners,
policymakers, researchers, educators and other stakeholders
MEMBERS Eng. Shammah Kiteme (Ex-Officio)
in engineering and related fields. The publication is distributed
Eng. Jacton Mwembe (Ex-Officio)
Eng. Jeniffer Korir (Ex-Officio)
to its target readers free of charge through hard and soft copies.
Eng. Paul Ochola (Secretary)
Eng. Sammy Tangus (Treasurer) IEK invites you to contribute articles for our next and future
Eng. Erick Ohaga editions. Articles should reach the Editor not later than 20th
Eng. Nathaniel Matalanga September, 2024 for our next issue, whose theme shall be
Eng. Margaret Ogai
“Mining Engineering” and related sub-themes, across all
Eng. Prof. Leonard Masu
Eng. Dr. Roy Orenge (Technical Editor)
engineering disciplines. An article can range from engineering
projects to processes, machinery, management, innovation,
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Dinah Kendi The articles must be well researched and written to appeal to
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2 Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

 Message from the

EDITOR’S MESSAGE
Editor
for University Education (CUE), Engineers practice allowance to engineers in the
Board of Kenya (EBK), the Institution of public service.Work in the factory, farm,
Engineers of Kenya (IEK) and universities office, hospital or transport system is
to solve the recent difficulties on dependent on access to reliable and
the recognition and accreditation of affordable energy, especially electricity.
university courses. Our new government An analysis of the national energy shows
should lead dialogue so that statutory heavy dependency on petroleum 22%,
Eng. Prof. Lawrence Gumbe entities may exist harmoniously. This electricity 9%, others account for 1%.
may need review of legislation and Electricity access in Kenya is low despite
administration instruments. the government’s ambitious target to
Engineering is responsible for the
increase electricity connectivity to at
creation, improvement and protection
Engineering research is key to our least 65% by the end of the year 2022.
of the environment, providing facilities
for living, industry and transportation, industrialisation and achievement of
including large buildings, roads, bridges, Vison 2030 and the Africa Union’s Agenda To achieve Vision 2030, the country’s
canals and railways, water supply 2063. We urge our new government electricity generation, transmission
systems, dams, irrigation, harbours, to move fast to implement funding of and distribution needs to be developed
docks, aqueducts, tunnels and other the research at the level of the Science in order to attain a consumption rate
infrastructure and systems. Technology and Innovation Act. The of 3,000 kWh/ capita from the current
government should thereafter give level of about 164 kWh/capita. We
priority to engineering research funding. must be ambitious and innovative in
The current crisis in governance of Kenya
developing our energy sector in Kenya.
provides the opportunity to re-engineer
A few years ago country comparison of the This sector is a necessary condition for
the national economy for the benefit of
number of persons served by an engineer our industrialisation, economic security
the nation. This can enable the political
were, in part, as follows: Kenya, 6,300; and transformation. We urge the new
economy to tackle challenges such
South Africa, 3,166; Korea, 285; UK; 311; government to give energy the necessary
as unemployment, poverty, security,
Brazil, 227; and China, 130. We see from priority.
inadequate access to quality food,
housing and sanitation, education and the figures that level of industrialisation,
healthcare. economic development and affluence Engineering inputs in agriculture
have a direct relationship to the quantity are effected through agricultural
of engineers in a country. Hence Kenya mechanisation. Agricultural
National planning is key to development.
must strive to expeditiously increase mechanisation aims at increasing the
Engineers are uniquely qualified to lead
its quantity and quality engineers. The power inputs to farming activities hence
the national planning process because
number of graduates of engineering intensified production and enhanced
their education and training enables
programmes has increased. value addition resulting to decreased
them to visualize complex systems,
cost of production and reduction of
breakdown the same into components
As discussed above, the number drudgery in farming activities.
and re-integrate the same into a judicious
whole. Kenya has a national government should actually increase rapidly in the
and 47 county governments. All the near future. The process of licensing, The degradation of the environment
48 governments have a planning role. registration, of engineers should also during production is a serious challenge
We are, therefore, urging the national be modernised and streamlined so that in modern times. Climate change
and county governments to involve the pending and future candidates are and its adverse effect can be directly
engineers in their planning roles. An processed efficiently and effectively. attributed to lack of respect for prudent
engineer as the Cabinet Secretary for Again, we may learn from other countries environmental management through
planning would be ideal! Engineers as such as the USA. responsible production in agriculture,
County Executive Committee Members extractive industries, transport and
in charge of planning would also be ideal! We are happy to note that the scale manufacturing. We urge our government
Engineering educators, researchers and of fees for engineers was recently to dialogue with engineers on the future
practitioners respond to needs in history operationalized by the government. of industrialising our agriculture and
and geography to develop systems which This is good for the profession. Medical protecting our environment.
advance human civilisation. doctors, and others, who are in the
public service are paid non practice. Roads have contributed immensely to
We are glad to note that there has been Engineers are not paid this allowance. economic development and growth in
fruitful dialogue between the Commission We urge the new government to pay non the modern world. They have brought

Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

3
important social benefits to society. They Historically, the manufacturing sector The Environment. Kenya must hasten
are of vital importance in order to make has played an important role in driving its capacity to address disease from the
a nation grow and develop. In addition, economic development by stimulating perspectives of prevention, diagnosis
roads provide access to employment, and sustaining high productive growth, and treatment. Thisimplies the capacity
social, health and education. Therefore, boosting employment opportunities for to develop environmental and public
the road network is crucial in fighting semi-skilled labour and building country health systems and hospital.
against poverty. Structured dialogue competitiveness through exports. The
between our government and engineers path to industrialisation, economic Also crucial are the development of
should continue so as to advance this transformation and increased human capacity in research and human resource
crucialsector. welfare has been through an enhanced development through education and
manufacturing sector. Engineers play training. The building of hospitals and
The Covid-19 pandemic demonstrated a lead role in manufacturing. Engineers manufacture, installation, operation
the importance of information and are available for dialogue with the new and maintenance of equipment and
telecommunication engineering to overnment on the development of machinery for disease diagnosis and
the world. In education, universities manufacturing in Kenya. treatment need the participation of
and schools were variously forced to engineers. Engineers are excited and
discontinue physical instruction and Biomedical engineering is the application expectant that we can all enter a new
revert to virtual learning which could not of the science and art of engineering to dawn with our in Kenya.
have been possible without information the planning, design and management of
and communication engineering, ITE. systems for health care of human beings. Through the leadership of the Institution
The primary actors in the ITE sector It combines expertise in engineering of Engineers of Kenya, we are ready to
are engineers. Engineers are playing with expertise in medicine and human dialogue and participate effectively in
a leading role and will continue. The biology to develop technologies and national development of Kenya.
new government should engage the techniques for healthcare and patient
engineering community in order to care. This field includes: Biotechnology;
develop this crucial sector. Health Care Systems; Amenity; Human
Biology; Pharmaceutical industries; and
 Message from the

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
President
is specifically targeting cross border Through active policy formulation and
practicing. This is being enabled by engagement in influencing policies
Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs) around these areas, IEK is placing the
and definitely the efforts to join the Engineer at the center of the development
Washington Accord are much welcome. of this country. It is for this reason that
Engineering Kenya as is the theme for
Through a strong representation this issue is about transforming this
Eng. Shammah Kiteme, CE, FIEK at World Federation of Engineering country economically but also creating
Organisations (WFEO) and Federation opportunities for Engineers. Engineering
Kenya is also creating an environment for
B y definition engineering brings an of Africa Engineering Organizations’
(FAEO) the place of Kenya’s Engineering doing business because infrastructure is
element of ingenuity, creativity and
at the global level will continue to a key enabler for doing business.
bringing forth something often times from
nothing. In the etymology of the word be showcased. Indeed, in the World
are active words like creating, designing Engineering Convention (WEC) last year To bring down the cost of living requires
or building. When we conceived of Kenya was strongly represented through a rebirth of manufacturing in our country.
engineering Kenya as the theme for this paper presentations and the number of We have realised that we have an
issue, several ideas came to mind. One delegates attending. immense potential in manufacturing
among them is the status of engineering in all the counties. Eradicating hunger
in Kenya. Another fact is that in an age of As one former President of Kenya often has a lot of Engineering as Agricultural
global connectedness what is happening used to say, bad politics will yield bad Engineering and Irrigation will be key in
here in Kenya also reflects on what is quality of life, Engineering in Kenya will delivering this priority. Growth must be
happening beyond our borders. continue to be affected by decisions in inclusive and opportunities availed for
the political space. As such, IEK has taken all. IEK is at the forefront of advocating for
a key step to engage policy makers in all this inclusive growth that does not leave
For this reason, and for the foreseeable
the levels of the National and County any part of the country underdeveloped.
future the state of engineering in Kenya
will remain at the heart of the progress Governments. These engagements are
of the country. All progress is literally beginning to bear fruit as we now have Engineering Kenya also means that
engineering and this will remain the Eng. Eric Murithi Muuga as a nominee we must embrace sustainability in all
status of issues going forward. for the position of Cabinet Secretary for our development. For this reason, we
Water, Sanitation and Irrigation. have invested in training to pass on the
skills that we will require to continue to
The application of engineering standards
Our advocacy efforts are geared towards transform all the sectors of our economy.
that are global has created an opportunity
engineers taking the lead in conversations Engineers are particularly involved with
for engineers practicing in Kenya to
that will lead to the transformation of the power generation and transmission,
work on projects together with their
economy of this country. For this reason, water and sanitation as well as irrigation,
counterparts across the borders. IEK
IEK has taken a leading role in sustaining all infrastructure from hardware to
has continued to host delegations from
the conversation on pending bills. We digital infrastructure. Sustainability in all
other engineering associations in forums
believe this conversation is necessary these will involve developing the best
where we exchange ideas and explore
with many projects stalled because of knowledge and resources to ensure
opportunities mutually available for our
lack of financing. At the policy space, we Kenya is leading in all these sectors while
engineers across the borders.
have also aligned our engagement along passing on the skills to locally retain
the government development priorities. the best human resources. Reliability
This continues to be a key focus as we try and safety are also very key in our
These include Agriculture, Micro Small
to get opportunities for engineers in other infrastructure and they must be integral
and Medium Enterprise Economy,
countries from students to practicing considerations of Engineers as we take
Housing and Settlement, Healthcare
engineers the intercourse adds value to the lead in Engineering Kenya.
and Digital Superhighway and Creative
our members. The opportunity offered
Economy. Engineering is central to the
by the Africa Continental Free Trade
realisation of these priority sectors of the
Area (AfCFTA) under trade in services
5th Administration.

Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

5
PICTORIAL

IEK President, Eng. Shammah Kiteme, along with a delegation from the
Institution of Engineers of Kenya, during a courtesy visit to the Doshi
Group of Companies.

Eng. Annette Ingaiza Murambi, FLC Chair, leads the IEK welcomed a delegation from the Royal Academy of Engineering
Institution of Engineers of Kenya-Future Leaders in to discuss the imple-mentation of IEK's Africa Catalyst Phase 5
mentoring young girls at Plateau Girls High School, project, Engineering Excellence Alliance: Strength-ening Engineering
emphasizing the importance of choosing an excellent Professionalism, Capacity, and Growing Engineering Talents for Sus-
career path in engineering. tainable Development in Sub-Saharan Africa.

The IEK South Rift Branch, in partnership with the Women in Engineering Committee, celebrated International Women in Engineering
Day at Toniok Girls Secondary School, focusing on capacity building and empowerment for young students.

The IEK Council led by President Eng. Shammah Kiteme during a courtesy call to KPLC MD, Eng. Dr. Joseph Siror.
 Message from the

HONORARY SECRETARY’S MESSAGE

Honorary Secretary
The Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) into the national grid, develop innovative
remains steadfast in its commitment technologies for energy storage and
to the professional development of our distribution, advocate for supportive
members. We advocate for continuous policies, collaborate with international
growth through regular training sessions, partners, and initiate public awareness
workshops, and mentorship programs. campaigns. The Kenyan Government
By fostering a culture of lifelong learning, must ensure that all agencies within the
Eng. Jacton. A. Mwembe, PE, MIEK we aim to equip engineers with the energy sector persist in promoting green
latest knowledge and skills required energy adoption. The efforts of these
to excel in their respective fields. Our stakeholders are vital in fulfilling Kenya’s
Members, Colleagues and All Our Readers, collaborative efforts with the Engineers energy requirements and advancing
Board of Kenya (EBK) reflect our shared the engineering profession through
It is with great pleasure and pride that vision of advancing the engineering sustainable energy initiatives.
I introduce to you the 18th edition profession in Kenya. Through mentorship
of Engineering in Kenya publication. for professional development, IEK Through dynamic engagement and
This publication embodies the spirit underscores the importance of robust forward-thinking initiatives, the IEK
of innovation, transformation, and educational frameworks and targeted council strive to inspire our members,
progress in our beloved nation. As we initiatives to bridge the gap between young engineers and future leaders
navigate the dynamic landscape of the academic training and industry to join us in crafting a brighter, more
21st century, the theme of this issue, requirements. sustainable future for Kenya.
“Engineering Kenya”, resonates deeply
with our collective vision to propel We take this opportunity to acknowledge As you read through the articles in this
Kenya towards a future marked by the initiatives led by the IEK Future issue, I invite you to embrace the spirit
sustainable development, technological Leaders Committee. Their efforts in of collaboration, innovation, and hope
advancement, and professional mentoring young and prospective that permeates every page. Together,
excellence. engineers through engagements and we can achieve the visionary goals of
participation in mentorship programs are the IEK and make a lasting impact on our
In this issue, we present a rich collection commendable. nation. Let us continue to work hand in
of articles that explore the pivotal areas hand, fostering a culture of inclusivity,
influencing the engineering profession The IEK Council will continue to support excellence, and professionalism in all our
and its societal impact. The IEK Council, and organize career days in learning endeavours.
offers a thorough memorandum to the institutions, as this will not only inspire
government, detailing our strategic the next generation but also ensure that I encourage you to uphold the virtues
priorities for advancing engineering in the profession remains dynamic and of engineering standards and practices
Kenya forward-looking. The synergy between highlighted in this publication. By
IEK and EBK exemplifies our collective adhering to these principles, we can
This edition addresses the critical matter dedication to cultivating a vibrant ensure that our engineering solutions
of future engineering, empowerment engineering community, poised to tackle not only meet the highest levels of
of engineering services, emphasizing future challenges and drive national quality and safety but also contribute
the challenges we’ve faced and the development. to a sustainable and prosperous future
progress we’ve achieved in maintaining for Kenya. Let us remain dedicated to
accountability and professional integrity In this issue, we shine a spotlight advancing our profession, mentoring the
within our community. on Sustainable Energy Solutions, next generation of engineers, and driving
highlighting advances in solar, wind, forward the transformative changes that
We are privileged to feature insights from and geothermal energy projects. To will shape our nation for the better.
esteemed contributors across various drive the adoption of these solutions,
sectors which includes, Agricultural Kenyan Government should prioritise
Development, Manufacturing, Structural integration of renewable energy sources
Development and Engineering Education.

Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

7
 IEK's Proposal to the Government:
Priorities for Engineering Advancement

‘Increasing the number of registered Professional Engineers

from the current 3,500 to about 15,000 by the year 2027 calls for
Engineering stakeholders’ engagement as well as consultation
from across all stakeholders.’

Eng. Shammah Kiteme recently spoke on #InsideGovernment on The Future of Engineering.

Three months into the office, what have you discovered?

Well, there is a lot of work and consultation to be done and it almost feels like nothing has been happening before, while in
reality, I am aware there is so much that has been happening. However, we are up to the challenge. We are giving it our best shot
and we are making steps and positive steps.

You have been an engineer for the last 15 years. What would you identify as the biggest
challenge facing this industry?
To begin with, the Society still does not seem to appreciate the place of the engineer and that translates into their involvement
in key infrastructure undertakings and mega projects. This also translates to their compensation and so there’s a general way
in which the compensation for engineers is not well appreciated right from salaries all the way to consultancy and that remains
a big conversation within the fraternity and something we are looking into. You will recall that in 2022 there was an engineer
scale of fees that was enacted. At the moment, it is a law and that has helped to make Engineers have a reference point. For
instance, you know lawyers and advocates have a remuneration order too. So, for the first time in 2022, we had something
that Engineers would refer to. Currently, we are fighting for a unified scheme of service for engineers because it is really a
disadvantage to Engineers who spend five years in the university and when they are employed under public service, their work
entry grade is job Group K, equivalent to someone who went to do anthropology in the University. This is quite against the career
guidelines for Public Service Commission which dictate that for a five-year course, the entry grade should be job group L. The job
exit for Engineers is lower than the other professions and so we are fighting for the unified scheme of service for engineers to
improve compensation. We are having engagements with Public Service Commission and soon with SRC because we do believe
that Engineers need to be compensated well, just like other professions that enjoy risk allowance and practicing allowance,
which Engineers do not and so we consider it an injustice to the engineers and it is a matter we are pursuing aggressively with
the Public Service Commission.

Why has it taken too long to start appreciating the role of engineers in our nation?

I do believe there is a time of economic law for this country and I think pretty much in the ‘90s and there was no much
infrastructure happening. You do recall that after 2002, the NARC Kenya government was very aggressive into infrastructure
and that is the time we started seeing the place of the engineer more critically than we used to. As a matter of fact, previously in
those years of economic law, Engineers were even opting to go to work in audit firms. However, post 2002, we saw aggressive
investment in infrastructure by the NARC government and there has been that intention. I remember one presidential candidate
saying their agenda for economic transformation is infrastructure, so this kind of focus on infrastructure has brought to the
fore the space of Engineers and of course we have seen legal reforms that have created in Authorities like KENHA, KERRA and
KURA. That has created more space for engineers in terms of taking lead in implementation of infrastructure and I believe this
is a contributor but we are still pushing so that the various Acts created in Authorities such as KPLC and KenGen have Engineers
at the top positions of leadership because if an organization’s core function is engineering, then naturally we should have
Engineers leading those kinds of organizations. It is not right to have people who are not technically capable of reasoning with
the majority of the workforce taking the top leadership. It does mean that they do not have the technical competency to deal
with the matters that the organization deals with and so that is really a point we are making very strongly as the Institution of
Engineers of Kenya.

8 Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

 The proposal on Engineers taking leadership roles in certain organizations is facing a lot
of backlashes from people who are arguing that it is arcing to setting up positions for
exclusively some people. Isn’t this likely to be challenged in a court of law?

Well let us take a look at any Hospital in this country. They can be owned by an NGO, by a church organization and even by
the state. However, the frontline care providers in that hospital have to be doctors, nurses, clinicians et cetera. In a similar
manner, anyone can own any business even legal business however the dispensers of Legal Services must be lawyers. In the
same way, we need to have engineers at the forefront of providing Engineering Services whether it’s in construction, whether
it is design and supervision and whether it’s in operations; For example, if you have an entity whose core function is power
generation, something which is largely Engineering, in nature roads and infrastructure, water and waste water irrigation and
all that those are Engineering co-functions. Why do you want to entrust people who are not technically suitable in terms of
experience and knowledge to lead those organizations? It means then, that the people at the top handling those institutions
are reporters of what they get from their juniors. For instance, if you are a Cabinet Secretary and you are getting advice from that
kind of a person, then you are getting second hand information. You can only get that best advice from a technically competent
person and a professional in that field and so we believe our argument makes sense. Let me tell you, those countries that
have invested in proper engineering, let’s take an example of China where all the way from the head of state to about 70% of
the government are Engineers, the country is literally transformed because Engineers are creative. They think systems, they
are problem solvers and that is what we advocating for by saying space needs to be given to the engineers. The priority of
the government has been largely engineering issues, whether you are talking of Agriculture, universal healthcare, whether
you’re talking of housing, all those are core engineering healthcare whether you’re talking of um housing all those are core
engineering provided.

You’re talking about transforming this country to get to where China is, in terms of
infrastructural development as well as Innovation but you’re talking about a country that
is still grappling with a huge deficit of professional and qualified Engineers. You’re talking
about less than 3,500 against a population of almost 60 million people and that translates
to a very small number.

No, look, this country has trained about 37,000 Engineers since we have been around. Some are deceased and others are not
even involved in engineering at all. We have a lot of infrastructure projects going on whether from the private sector or the
public sector. Making sure that for every project that we undertake we create an opportunity to create attachment/internship
opportunities for engineers so that we can train them and pass skills to the Next Generation. Every profession learning is
through apprenticeship so you learn from experts or the Masters to become a master or an expert yourself. Countries like China
are where they are because deliberate and conscious decision making is involved in technical competency. They invested
in training, making sure that they industrialize. As a matter of fact, they took the extra step of learning through the process
of industrialization and reverse engineering where they get the existing systems, they learn from them so that they can
manufacture. I have been moving across Africa and even further and everywhere I landed, China is present everywhere. Many
of the airports works in this continent are being done by China because they had a deliberate and calculated plan on how to
transform the economy. They invested in engineering and technology and I can tell you within 30 years, that country changed
from poverty to be a giant we see today. This country can do similarly if we give space to engineers and we believe the policy
makers and decision makers will take this kind of advice from us because we have the ability to transform this country through
industrialization. We have the ability to invest the kind of infrastructure that is needed to enable the economy grow and I believe
this is the kind of conversation we need to have as a country

Innovation and technology are driving change around engineering. What are you doing to
ensure that Institutions of Higher Learning are populated with younger Engineers so that
they can bring in new ideas, come up with new Innovations and can drive technology?

Regarding what I talked about earlier on economic law where we are not churning out qualified Engineers because there are
very few projects. There was that kind of um engineers in their eighties taking places of leadership, and some universities where
we have had quite senior Deans and we know annually we produce about 2,500 Graduate Engineers from all the universities
that we have in the country. Universities have gradually been offering opportunities for scholarships and we seeing more
young University Deans.

Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

9
 I have colleagues teaching the universities. There’s that general trend whereby the young Engineers are taking over however
and we must be very categorical. The biggest malice and problem we are dealing with is opportunities for engineers and the
projects where they are going to get exposure to get compensation. We have talked about a very big monkey in this country
called pending bills, which is so because we made our comments during the finance bill that was rejected and highlighted
the fact that pending bills is a very big factor of our economy doing well or not well because we have projects that are put on
hold because money has not been given to the project that translates into Engineers who have gone for up to twelve months
without pay in their salaries. It also translates into consultancy firms that have not been given money to continue supervising
those projects. Well, what does that mean? It means they are sending Engineers home as they do not have work. This is a big
conversation that we need to have on pending bills which will create opportunities for engineers and these Engineers getting
well equipped, trained and experienced?

How much is owned to the engineers by the government

I do not have the exact figure but to be honest, we have had the a Cabinet Secretary from the recently dissolved Cabinet quoting
a figure like 600 billion of pending bills and I can tell you I will not dispute that because I know a number of Roads while seated
here that are not going on because the contractor has not been paid the consulting I receive messages from Engineers who are
telling me that it has been 12 months since they were last paid. One of the things that cause us to raise eyebrows and make
noise about the Finance Bill is that and the budget statement is that we had almost zero allocation for pending bills and that is
literally killing the engineering industry in this country and so we hope that even as His Excellency the President dissolves the
Cabinet, this issue of pending bills is given enough weight.

The government has been very clear that here are more than 100 infrastructure projects
that are pending in different parts of the country. How has this impacted the profession of
engineering?

When we talk about over hundreds of projects that are stalled, let me explain to you what that means. It means there was
mobilization, there was a Contractor on site, there was a consulting firm, there were engineers employed, and this renders all
those people jobless as long as that project is stalled but that is not all. The fact that that the project is stalled means there are
costs that the government is incurring because of idle labour due to idle plant and equipment. The question is, when we are
conceiving a project, are we thoughtful that we have the budget or do we know that we have the resources to run the project
up to the end because then, the moment you sign under the dotted line and in a contractual phase with the different players if
you do not deliver your obligation, you will incur consequences. There will be costs and you will pay penalties and so we ask
ourselves then, where is integrity of the public servants involved in conceiving these projects? This is because we are paying
hefty sums and I think you have seen court cases whereby entities have been awarded billions of monies because of this kind
of scenario.

Sometimes in the past, Engineers have also raised these concerns regarding delayed
payments, forcing some of them to move to work in the East and West. How bad is the
situation?
We have lost some of the best brains in this country. I know colleagues who leave key Engineering positions in this country
and going to for example, Germany. I know several of my friends in Australia, the UK, Saudi Arabia, and all over the world. We
regret that we lose some of the best brains because this country still needs those brains who understand our national grid.
We do not need to lose them, however the situation with our economy is so bad. We have so many young Engineers who are
jobless and we have actually been involved in conversations about what we can do to help get opportunities out there for them
and I appreciate the current government which has been trying to get opportunities in Germany. We have interacted with our
colleagues from Jordanian Association of Engineers, Danish Association of Engineers and we are deliberate to interact with
more this year. Around September this year, the Institution of Engineers of Kenya is organizing an international tour to Italy and
Germany just so that we can continue exposing our members in the kind of practicing environment we have globally and build
those partnerships that can create exchange programs and if possible, members getting opportunities across the border. We
have recently created an association or coming together of Engineers who are in US and Canada to come together and we have
exchange of information. We have our colleagues working at Lockheed Martin in Boeing and we want that kind of exchange of
ideas so that if there are opportunities for more engineers, they can make our colleagues here aware of them and they can take
them up but the issue of unemployment for engineers is huge and it’s an animal. We are trying to resolve it and hope that soon
we will be able to get more opportunities because of more infrastructure opportunities coming up and then we can stem the
brain drain because we still need the top brains in this country.

10 Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

I have also alluded to lack of training opportunities and lack of projects for engineers to be involved in and when you talk about
25,000 in total number of Engineers, the huge number of these are graduate Engineers who are looking for opportunities for
work to be involved in projects because the engineering professionals go through a five year training in the University then you
go through a three-year period of learning and registered. On professional development, when you graduate, you are expected
to have acquired what you call graduate attributes to be able to get into engineering profession

Additionally, based on our act, a minimum 3 years of actual experience where you are you get exposure in design, contract
management, supervision and you’re able to develop a project that you can use to register. With the situation whereby graduate
Engineers are not getting opportunities to train, this basically means they lack opportunities to train, yet they need to prepare
themselves for registration and so then we are seeing a situation whereby just above 3,000 Engineers are able to register either
as a Professional Engineers or Consulting Engineers and the bigger chunk of about 23,000 graduate Engineers remain jobless
causing some of them deviate to do other things. However, what we are advocating for and especially as IEK is that every
time there’s a project, is to set aside some amount of money even 1% and you can imagine if you set aside 1% of 3 billion set
aside some amount then that amount should be for training for internship/attachment for engineering students and graduate
engineers. This will translate into opportunities for engineering students and graduate engineers and when they are exposed
to this, then they are able to get the experience and need to be able to register and this country is going to grow in number of
Engineers. Any economy that has been transformed has invested heavily in engineering. Countries like America, Russia, China,
Iran have been deliberate in investing in engineering and technology that has been a trigger to the economic transformation in
those countries and for us we must also go that line.

The number of registered engineers has notably improved. Talking of figures moving from as slow as 100 to the current about
500 per year is significant and of course I know the goal is to register 10,000 engineers in the next couple of years because it is
in the strategic plan for the engineering regulator, Engineers Board of Kenya, where I happen to be a board member. We want to
aim to ensure that for every project that is registered in this country, we know the engineer involved and that the compensation
for engineers is strictly adhered to. We want to see to it that we are not bringing in foreign Engineers to carry out projects that
local Engineers are able to do. We are aware that the space for internation mobility of our Engineers has been made possible,
through the Washington Accord, which I hope we will be able to accede to next year.

Work opportunities
IN MAURITIUS
SENIOR CIVIL/STRUCTURAL ENGINEER

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according to British Standards (BS) and Eurocodes. Registered as a CEng
(Chartered Engineer with MIStructE or MICE would be an advantage.

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Application with details of qualifications, training and working experience should

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www.sjpce.com

Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

11
 Empowerment and Professional
Development In Kenyan Engineering
Insights From The President IEK

ii. Transition to Professional to support their children during the

Engineers internship period. He urged for greater
investment in the program to ensure that
interns are adequately compensated,
With the increase in graduate engineers thereby making the program more
in Kenya voicing concerns about the sustainable and attractive.
protracted and bureaucratic process
required to transition to corporate
membership within IEK, Eng. Shammah iv. Kenya’s Accession to the
acknowledged these grievances, Washington Accord
explaining that there was a time when
it seemed as though some individuals There have been concerns and
deliberately hindered this progression. optimism regarding Kenya’s bid to join
Eng. Shammah Kiteme, CE, FIEK However, he assured that concerted the Washington Accord by 2025, an
IEK President efforts are now in place to facilitate a agreement that facilitates the global
smoother transition. He highlighted the recognition of engineering qualifications.
Graduate Engineers Internship Program The President outlined the necessary
i. Gender Parity in (GEIP), which aims to provide structured, steps and resources required, including
Engineering paid internships lasting at least three the accreditation of university programs
years. This program is designed to by the Engineers Board of Kenya, the
Eng. Shammah Kiteme discussed the ensure that graduate engineers receive enhancement of training facilities, and
significant strides the Institution of the necessary professional development the need for more registered engineers
Engineers of Kenya (IEK) has made and training to qualify for corporate to serve as mentors and educators.
in bridging the gender gap within the membership. Eng. Kiteme pointed out that Eng. Kiteme reported that the country is
engineering field. He acknowledged that while some engineers have successfully making significant progress, supported
although women constitute only 13% transitioned within three years, the IEK by mentorship from countries like
of the IEK’s overall membership, they continues to work on further streamlining Pakistan and Malaysia. He conveyed his
hold a substantial 41% of the leadership of the process. hope that during his term as President,
roles. This discrepancy illustrates Kenya would successfully accede to
IEK’s commitment to empowering iii. Impact of the Graduate the Washington Accord, a goal he had
female engineers and creating a more Engineers Internship campaigned on.
inclusive environment. The IEK President
emphasized ongoing efforts, such Program Eng. Shammah acknowledged the
as outreach programs in schools to challenges, such as the need for
inspire young girls to pursue careers in Positively speaking about the Graduate adequate human resources and proper
engineering and STEM fields. He shared Engineers Internship Program (GEIP), training facilities, but highlighted the
a recent instance where he personally the IEK President stated that it has had ongoing efforts and trainings to address
visited a girls’ school to encourage a notable impact on the professional these issues. He hoped that during his
students, highlighting the concerted development of young engineers. tenure, Kenya would successfully join
effort of the Women Engineers Committee He noted that the program, now in its the Accord, fulfilling a key promise of his
in conducting similar activities. fourth cohort, has successfully helped campaign.
many graduate engineers transition to
“We have 13% of our members being professional engineers within a timely
lady Engineers. We definitely have in manner. The success of the program has v. Unity within IEK Post-
our leadership about 41%. That tells you also led to calls for its expansion, aiming Election
proportionately we have more ladies in to accommodate more participants in the
the leadership compared to men... We coming years. However, he highlighted a Following a fiercely contested election,
are deliberate on empowering women significant challenge: The low stipends Eng. Shammah Kiteme emphasized the
Engineers every time we have an provided to interns. This financial importance of unity within the Institution
opportunity.” inadequacy often forces families of Engineers of Kenya (IEK). Despite

12 Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

the competition, he underscored that He said, “We have some of the top
IEK is a unified body that serves all its engineering brains in this country... It
members equally. Eng. Kiteme recounted is because someone at the decision-
his commitment to advancing a unity of making table decides to disadvantage
purpose within the institution. He ensured our own citizens.”
that members who opposed his election
still had opportunities to contribute and He profoundly highlighted that the
serve in various committees. Eng. Kiteme perception of Kenyan engineers being
reiterated that the IEK is not divided into underqualified is far from the truth.
factions; rather, it is a single institution He mentioned that many Kenyan
working towards the common goal of engineers are working on high-profile
advancing the engineering profession in projects internationally and possess
Kenya. He stressed that all engineers, the necessary expertise. He pointed out
regardless of their stance during the that the preference for foreign firms in
election, are part of one family and local projects often stems from decisions
should work together for the betterment made by policymakers, rather than a lack
of the profession. He assured that despite of local capability. Eng. Kiteme called for
the competitive nature of the elections, fairer opportunities for Kenyan engineers
IEK remains a unified institution. He also in major infrastructure projects.
added that there are no factions within IEK
and that all members, regardless of their
voting choices, have equal opportunities
to contribute to the institution’s activities.

vi. Kenyan Engineers’

Competence
Addressing the perception that Kenyan
engineers are not well-qualified,
President Eng. Kiteme strongly refuted
these claims. He cited numerous
examples of Kenyan engineers excelling
in international projects and working
with top global companies like Boeing
and Lockheed Martin. Eng. Kiteme
attributed the preference for foreign firms
in local projects to decisions made at
higher levels, which often disadvantage
local talent. He argued that Kenyan
engineers possess the necessary skills
and expertise to handle major projects,
but are often sidelined by policy and
decision-makers. Eng. Kiteme called for
the enforcement of local content laws and
policies to ensure that Kenyan engineers
are given fair opportunities to participate
in significant infrastructure projects.

Picture: Courtesy

Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

13
 A Vision For Kenya: The Political
Economy of Transformation
By an Economist

Picture: Courtesy

A Vision for Kenya: The Political Sessional Paper No I0: Roots of A

Economy of Transformation Dependent Economy

The economy of Kenya is long overdue for fundamental In 1965 KANU produced the Sessional Paper No 10 on African
transformation, reconstruction and development so that it can Socialism and it’s Application to Planning in Kenya. Instead
fulfil the aspirations of the founding fathers to build an economy of this Sessional Paper charting a bold new path to a modern,
that will enable us to eradicate poverty, ignorance and disease prosperous and egalitarian industrialised future it instead sought
so that our people can live in dignity. to reproduce the skewed and uneven racist colonial patterns.
Accordingly public investment was to continued being directed
It is for this reason that in 2008 the country enunciated a bold to the so-called high potential areas that are the former White
and ambitious new development blueprint the Kenya Vision Highlands whose potential was actually a result of the unjust
2030 (KV2030) whose aim is to create “a globally competitive racist colonial development policy that favoured white settlers
and prosperous country with a high quality of life by 2030”. at the expense of the colonised indigenous African people who
were relegated to the so-called native reserves. Critics observed
that this sessional paper was neither African nor Socialist.
Kenya Vision 2030 aims to transform Kenya into “a newly-
industrializing, middle income country providing a high quality
of life to all its citizens in a clean and secure environment”. This blueprint set postcolonial Kenya on a dependent economic
development path that has denied us the ability to break loose
from foreign domination.
Central to the Vision, (as articulated in Sessional Paper No 9 of
2012), is for the country to be the leading industrialized nation
in Africa, with a robust, diversified and globally competitive Meanwhile to consolidate their stranglehold on power the
manufacturing sector for the generation of wealth and postcolonial ruling elite was soon being accused of abuse of
employment. The journey of industrialising a country is largely office as corruption in the public service became a nagging
an engineering project and therefore the engineering community concern especially after the Ndegwa Commission Report
in Kenya is bound to play a leading role in re-engineering our allowed civil servants to engage in running business enterprises
national development agenda and priorities. while still in office.

Economic Transformation Journey Ethical Leadership in Transformation

At independence our founding fathers set out to eradicate Ethical commited leadership is crucial for the task of
poverty, ignorance and disease. This entailed that KANU would transformation of nations. Abuse of power to serve narrow
build an independent state with an equally independent modern private ends and the pursuit of misguided dependent economic
integrated and self-reliant industrialising economy in which the strategy has contributed largely to compromising the ability
needs of all sectors and all people would be met. Unfortunately of the state to develop a national economy for the benefit of
the departing colonialists managed the transition to install an the majority. Consequently even though the economy grew
alliance of local political forces sympathetic to foreign interests. steadily in the first ten years of independence the policies gave
rise to a dependent economy which produces what it does not

14 Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

consume and consumes what it does not produce thus catering Manufacturing Industry in postcolonial
essentially for foreign interests and rendering the Kenyan
economy an appendage and largely a lucrative market for foreign
Kenya
goods and services. This was not the inevitable consequence of
decolonisation but simply the result of a leadership challenge in Post-colonial Kenya pursued a policy of import substition
postcolonial Kenya. industrialisation (ISI) strategy in which government provided
direct support and tariff protection for the sector. This was a
continuation of a policy began in the colonial period to produce
Frantz Fanon aptly captured the tragedy of dependent ruling
previously imported consumer goods for local consumption and
elites when he said of the African leaders who took over from the
some for export especially to the neighbouring countries. These
colonialists as follows:
industries were expected to provide employment and save the
country foreign exchange and improve the balance of payments.
“They are not geared to production, invention, creation or
work. Networking and scheming seem to be their underlying
Between 1963 and 1970 the manufacturing sector grew at a rate
vocation... They have the psychology of a businessman, not that
of 8% growing faster than the rest of the Kenyan economy and
of a captain of industry.” He was concerned with the ability of
also faster than the industrial sector in the rest of Sub-Sahara
the leadership of the newly decolonising African nations to break
Africa (SSA). These industries included food processing, leather
loose from their erstwhile colonial masters and to help develop
tanning, footwear, paper, textiles, apparels, garments and
independent industrial national economies as a material basis
tobaccp manufacturing.
for exercising their sovereignty.
The performance of the manufacturing sector faced serious
Perhaps the commission agent mentality of deal-makers of
shocks and decline in the 1970s even though the government
yesteryears rather than the captain of industry mentality is
increased its participation in the sector through increased
probably what distinguished the paths taken in South Korea,
financing of new industrial projects. Industrial production
Malaysia, and Singapore to the trajectory Kenya took. The former
for export slowed down due to a number of adverse factors
soared to the sky while the Kenya lagged far behind. This may
including the collapse of the lucrative East African Community
be illustrated by comparing the growth of the GDP per capita of
market and deterioration in the external terms of trade due to the
some of these countries to that of Kenya over the same period.
the oil shocks of the 1970s.
It is instructive to note that in 1965 the Gross Domestic Product
This ISI strategy failed to create adequate employment to meet
(GDP) per capita of South Korea was US$ 108 and Kenya’s was
the rising needs of a rapidly growing and increasingly educated
US$ 104, while in 2020, the GDP per capita of South Korea had
population of young people aspiring for better paying and
risen to US$ 31,489 as against Kenya’s to US$ 1,838 only! Part
quality jobs in the modern sectors of the economy that would
of the explanation for this difference can be traced to differences
assure them of better standards and quality of life. Additionally
in investment on education especially that of engineers.
because most of these industries were not well integrated into
the local economy they lacked forward and backward linkages
Comparing the number of people per engineer for selected and had high import content that also put pressure on balance
countries in 2011 shows that Kenya had 6300 people per of payments. which are among the problems the strategy was
engineer, whilst South Africa had 3166, China had 130, India meant to resolve.
157, Brazil 227, Korea 285, UK 311, USA 389 and Malaysia
543. It is also due to the seriousness with which they tackle
As the unemployment pressures intensified the GoK requested
accountability and corruption in the public service.
the International Labour Organisation (ILO) to study the problem
and recommend solutions in 1971. Their Report on Employment
The Evolution of Postcolonial Incomes and Equality that was published at the end of 1972
Industrial Policy in Kenya saw the mainstreaming of the informal artisinal manufacturing
sector (also known as “jua kali” because it was largely carried out
in the open spaces under the hot sun without even the benefit
The economy in post-independence Kenya consisted of large
of shades) into official industrial statistics. This sector consists
scale and smallholder peasant agriculture, Import Substition
of artisans repairing vehicles, fabricating metal household and
Industries (ISIs) largely producing consumer goods, and
farm tools, furniture welding windows, doors, grills and a myriad
the services sector including tourism, transport and retail
of other hand made items. The proposition was that this sector
and wholesale trade. Little effort was directed at producing
would create employment, reduce inequality and spur industrial
intermediate and producer goods. Agriculture exported primary
growth and equitable economic development. This promise has
unprocessed products and was dependent on imported
remained a dream.
industrial inputs. The manufacturing industry that produced
consumer goods was also heavily dependent on imported
inputs. The ISIs in the formal sector benefited from state subsidies and
market protection at the expense of the rest of the economy
which bore the higher costs of their expensive products.
The entry of Africans into occupations in the bureaucracy and in
Meanwhile little or no public investment or support has been
the commercial sector previously held by Europeans and Asians
made in the jua kali sector to encourage and enable those in the
gave rise to a feeling of progress among a small segment of the
sector to graduate into the formal industrial sector with potential
society even as many grumbled that Kenya was evolving into a
for enhancing productivity and improving working conditions
“man eat man society”of ten millionaires and ten million paupers
and incomes for those labouring in that sector.
that the late J.M. Kariuki used to talk about in the 1970s Kenya.

Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

15
 Export Oriented Industrialization Kenya became a mitumba economy and a dumping ground for
foreign goods.
(EOI) SAPs and De-Industrialisation
This problem of dumping of second hand goods and items as
Moi succeeded Kenyatta in 1978.and was to preside over the
well as the dumping of expired, substandard, counterfeit and
tumultuous economic and political shocks of the 1980s and
hazardous goods and waste products continues to bedevil our
1990s. This is the period in which Keynesianism collapsed in
industrialisation efforts to date. In fact it appears that some
the capitalist world and socialism and the Soviet Union also
international trade agreements and protocols require free
collapsed bringing the cold war between the Soviet Union
movement of such dubious goods.
and the USA, to an end. This period also witnessed the rise of
globalisation and neoliberalism and that of a global power
structure dominated by the USA. Moi’s twenty four years rule was thus not only politically
repressive but also an economic disaster. Tribalism also thrived
under Moi as he replaced the Kenyatta era Kiambu Mafia with
Neoliberalism dictated the imposition of austerity measures
a newly minted Rift Valley Mafia which looted and pillaged the
that required reduction in government spending and increasing
public coffers and resources with relish. By the time Moi was
taxation as well as imposition of policies such as elimination
leaving office almost all public land previously set aside for
of price controls, deregulation of capital markets, removing
public use in urban areas had been irregularly disposed off.
trade barriers, and privatisation of state assets. It also involves
The country was on it’s knees and was suffering a negative two
removal of subsidies to both consumers and domestic
percentage growth rate!
producers, withdrawal of funding to social services and laying
off of workers in the public sector as was carried in Kenya when
many employees in parastatals were given early retirement. It Kibaki and Economic Revival
also involves weakening of trade unions and abolition statutory
minimum wages policies. We are presently observing the return The departure of Moi and arrival of Kibaki in 2003 was celebrated
of the rabid austerity programmes of the IMF and Kenyans are by Kenyans in a manner only comparable to the coming of
not taking the bitter pills lying down. There is fierce resistance independence in 1963.
online and on the streets of Kenya as we write.
Kibaki rode to office on the crest of an ecstatic and overwhelming
Neoliberal policies are a calculated assault on any social and popular democratic coalition National Rainbow Coalition (NARC).
economic benefits states guaranteed to workers and the poor It was the culmination of years of painful struggles and valiant
and vulnerable under the Keynesianisian policies in capitalist sacrifices by many Kenyans. He promised that under him
economies. Essentially liberalism has no problem with state corruption will cease to be a way of life and that the era of
involvement and intervention in the economy as long as it roadside declarations was over. Sadly like his predecessors
benefits the owners of capital or investors. The problem is with before the ink dried on his promises he had thrown coalition
the state appearing to assist the working people and the poor partners overboard as he now surrounded himself with an ethnic
and vulnerable. cabal at the heart of the state.

Moi and Structrural Adjustment

Programmes

It is during the period Moi ruled that the IMF and the World Bank
literally took over the running of the country. In the 1980s
and 1990s the World Bank and International Monetary Fund
(IMF) imposed punitive foreign financing conditionalities that
forced the GoK to adopt and introduce Structrural Adjustment
Programmes (SAPs) through the publication of Sessional Paper
No. 2 of 1986 known as Economic Management For Renewed
Growth.

Through this Sessional Paper government undertook to

completely remove protective import licencing and tariffs,
remove price controls, liberalise imports through removal of
import and foreign exchange licencing and remove of subsidies
to local producers.

Even though those measures were promoted and rationalised

on the basis that they would enhance competitiveness and
spur and stimulate Export Oriented Industrialization (EOI) they
led to the dismantling of the protective fiscal regime around our
nascent industrial sector leading to massive de-indistrislisation
of our economy, job losses and unemployment, escalating
inflation, rising cost of living and declining standards of life.

16 Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

Kibaki had the best opportunity to tackle and eradicate the twin governance than promulgating a good economic blue print and
problems of ethnic politics and corruption that have sabotaged a good constitution.
our efforts at building a united, prosperous, just, equitable and
inclusive Kenya in which everyone feels at home. Tragically
he blew up the chance at the onset of his reign. According to
Jubilee and Declining Economic
John Githongo, who was the Permanent Secretary in charge of Fortunes
Ethics in the Office of the President, the Mount Kenya Mafia then
sorrounding Kibaki declared that “it is our time to eat”. The Jubilee government elected in the 2013 general elections
appears to have not only abandoned the implementation of
This left the country so badly wounded that in the 2007 elections the KV2030 immediately they came to office but also went
Kibaki was believed to have lost but was secretly sworn into on a borrowing spree. They claimed that the loans were to be
office at dusk throwing the country into unprecedented post- invested in numerous infrastructure projects. Some critics have
election violence that left over 1300 Kenyans dead and many complained the projects were unduly overpriced while others
more wounded and displaced. have argued that some of the debts are dubious and odious.
The Auditor General Nancy Gathungu has also recently reported
that the government can not explain how over Kshs 1.3 trillion
Kenya was pulled from the precipice of a complete breakdown has been spent. These debts have left Kenya reeling under the
and civil war by concerted mediation efforts of the international weight of unsustainable debt and pressures to increase taxes to
community. This period saw the formation of a government of pay the suspect debts.
national unity.
Under their watch the economy took a thorough beating as both
Very commendable economic performance and growth was domestic and foreign investors began to vote with their feet
registered during this period. It is also under this government moving to other more attractive jurisdictions. Consequently
that the Kenya Vision 2030(KV2030) and the CoK 2010 were employment opportunities dwindled as unemployment has
launched and promulgated respectively.. risen to unparalleled heights. In the last decade most graduates
of the education sector have simply joined the growing army of
Vision for A Just, Industrialised and the unemployed and underemployed.
Prosperous Kenya
The IMF, Debt and Economic Crisis
The KV2030, launched in 2008, proposes to build an
industrialised and prosperous middle income country by The economic model promoted by the Kenya Kwanza (KK)
the year 2030 while the CoK 2010 was a culmination of the government appears to be cracking under the weight of the
protracted struggles for a democratic Kenya in which all feel at debt crisis and is therefore unable to transform the economy
home and leadership is defined by selflessness and integrity. through industrialisation. Moreover if complaints by the Kenya
Unfortunately, an examination of our political and economic Association of Manufacturers (KAM) are to be believed it appears
experience since 2013 shows that there is more to good that government policies are turning investors away and
frustrating existing investors in industry.

A Vision for Kenya

Kenya must industrialise if we desire to deliver the independence

promise of eradicating poverty, disease and ignorance. We must
build an integrated self-reliant industrialising national economy
which is able to deliver dignified livelihoods and lives.

To catch up with our contemporaries such as Korea we must

invest heavily in quality education and particularly in the
production of many more engineers than we currently produce.
The task of re-enginnering Kenya and the realisation of Vision
2030 is an engineering project.

To achieve the dream the government must fulfill it’s commitment

to mobilise 2% of the GDP annually for research and innovation
which is the engine of industrialisation. More importantly it
is clear that leadership matters. We must therefore identify
patriotic, progressive, ethical and selfless leaders who are
willing to commit to the task of re-re-enginnering and building
the nation. Engineers have what is required for the task and
Picture: Courtesy must therefore come forth to actively participate in this national
endeavour.

Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

17
 Taxation Policies and Their
Impact on Kenya's Development
By EiK Correspondent

Taxation Policies and Their Impact On and obligations while simultaneously stimulating economic
development that benefits the majority especially the
Kenya’s Development vulnerable.

T he intense political controversies in the country surrounding

the processing of Finance Bills in recent times have brought
taxation and tax policies into sharp focus. Even though the
Tax Policy

present crisis has been triggered by the controversial Finance

Bill 2024/2025 the question is not just about how to raise taxes T he formulation of a tax policy is both a political and economic
decision making process. It is very important because it
has significant implications for the fortunes of the economy in
to spend from year to year but is generally about the broader
question of the management of our public finances. general and for the fate of different sectors of the economy and
specifically for groups such as households and firms playing
Public Finance Management concerns the determination of how different roles in the economy and society.
and where to spend public funds and how and from where to
raise the taxes and funds from other potential sources such as Progressive vs Regressive Tax Policies
levies and fees charged for services rendered by government
departments and institutions as well as borrowing. This involves
identifying, justifying and prioritising needs to be funded in any
financial year and not just how to raise taxes to spend.
T ax policy refers to the guidelines and principles established
by a government for the imposition and collection of taxes.
Taxes can be viewed as being either progressive or regressive.
Progressive taxation policies seek to promote equity in society
The Power To Tax by having tax rates that are higher for those who have higher
incomes and therefore a higher ability to pay and lower rates for

T he state and its tax imposition authority in a democratic those with lower incomes and therefore lower ability to pay. This
society is a social contract that must continuously be type of policy is contested by the rich and powerful in society.
negotiated between citizens and the state. The taxation and Regressive taxes tend to have uniform rates that shift a higher
spending powers bestowed upon the state must therefore be burden of funding public services to the poor with the least
justified on an ongoing basis, and governments must quantify ability to bear the burden.
what services the taxes are going to pay for and must provide
proof that the promised public services were faithfully delivered Taxation Policies and Economic
as agreed before seeking and obtaining another authority to Development
levy taxes anew. That is why finance bills and budgets have to
be submitted for the approval of parliament annually and public
participation is mandatory for the legislation of the bills into acts
of parliament.
T axation has micro-economic and macro-economic dimensions
with the former focusing on issues of fairness and efficiency
in tax collection, and the latter focusing on the overall quantity of
taxes to be collected and its impact on economic activity.
What is Tax?
Taxation policy should ensure that government raises

T he term ‘ tax’ means statutory payment to be made by the

public and imposed by the government. Tax is therefore
a compulsory payment by a person or a business to the
revenue adequate to fund public goods and services, without
compromising the usefulness of taxation as a tool to achieve
public policy goals and objectives such as redistribution
government to raise revenue for funding government services. of wealth, reduction of income inequality in society and
Taxes can be levied on what you earn, what you buy or what you stimulation of desired changes in the composition and direction
own. of the economy. Finding the right balance between these
competing objectives is critical for promoting economic growth
Why Taxes Are Unpopular and ensuring citizens’ well-being.

E ven though it is common knowledge that governments rely In crafting tax measures authorities often intend to promote
on the revenue they raise through taxation to provide the economic growth; however, there is significant debate among
services they render to society taxes are universally unpopular economists about the most effective ways to achieve this
as they reduce the ability of the taxpayers to determine how to because different tax policies will have different effects on
spend their own incomes. For this reason governments must different sectors in the economy and different groups in society.
approach the process of deciding how to carry out taxation with The taxation framework of a country is therefore considered a
alot of care and must convince taxpayers that the funds are crucial instrument for influencing the country’s economy but is
being used prudently for their benefit. also a highly contested political terrain with far-reaching political
consequences if not managed prudently as has been seen in
This requires formulation of a prudent tax policy that will Kenya.
enable government to raise revenues to fulfill it’s mandate

18 Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

 Picture: Courtesy

When taxation is intended to promote economic growth the policy to pay taxes but for their own sustenance and prosperity. Taxes
may require a qualitative restructuring of the tax system for are just a result of people agreeing to live together in a social
example, the substitution of taxes on consumption for taxes on arrangement where they delegate some of their own sovereign
income or special tax advantages to stimulate desired behaviour authority to the state and its organs to be exercised by state and
such as saving, labour mobility, research and development, and public officers. Citizens can exercise such delegated authority
so on. Under such circumstances tax incentives can also be directly and so they retain the right to recall that delegated
used in promoting economic development of specific sectors of authority from the delegates if and when they deem it necessary.
the economy such as agriculture and industries or regions. The government must therefore justify its existence and justify
why it needs revenue raised through taxation. It is for that reason
Taxation may be used to influence allocation of resources in that public participation is a central feature of the public policy
market economies but some free market proponents have process in Kenya. It is meant to ensure continuous engagement
expressed fears and concerns that they may distort the for transparency, accountability and securing the consent of the
large sets of possible choices available, or they can change governed and in the case of taxation the taxpayers.
the efficiency or create disequilibria in free markets within
such economies, all with short- and long-term development If the government is committed to prudent management of our
consequences. However, tax measures may fail to achieve public finances and resources it should seal the leakages in the
the stated goals and objectives and the desired effects and revenue raising and spending chain in government to secure
outcomes. Under such circumstances the taxes may achieve sufficient resources. Probably then government could actually
unintended consequences. come up with a Finance Bill that reduces taxes and increases the
disposable incomes available to both firms and households.
Excessive taxation for instance may stifle economic growth,
deter investment and entrepreneurship, and reduce overall tax The government needs to remember that the primary duty
revenue due to diminishing returns. An emphasis on economic of government in managing the economy is to create an
growth therefore implies the need to avoid high marginal tax environment conducive to doing business, to lower the cost
rates and the tax-induced diversion of resources into relatively of living and to improve the quality of life and living standards
unproductive activities. of everyone, particularly the poor and disadvantaged rather
than merely increasing government tax revenues. They ought
Principles of Taxation to realize that people work to improve their lot and not to pay
taxes to the government. Taxes should, therefore, be levied only

T axation policies are largely influenced by canons of Equity, to do those things we agree are best offered collectively by the
Certainty, Convenience, and Economy first elaborated by state and especially those which will enhance the productivity
Adam Smith. According to the Canon of Equity, the burden of most people in the economy.
of taxation must be distributed equally or equitably among
taxpayers. According to the Canon of Certainty, an individual’s The government should let people make spending, saving,
tax should be certain and not arbitrary. According to the Canon and investment decisions at the household and firms level
of Convenience, every tax should be levied in such a way and since governments have a tendency to squander public funds,
at such a time that it provides the greatest convenience to the thus starving the economy of funds and resources needed for
taxpayer. According to the Canon of Economy, tax collection broad-based development that benefits everyone rather than a
costs should be kept as low as possible. Any tax with a high privileged tiny minority.
administrative cost and an unusual delay in assessment and
collection should be avoided at all costs The government should also commit to eliminating the
widespread waste of public funds regularly reported by the
Lessons For Kenya Auditor General and to reconstruct the national economy, restore
people’s lives and livelihoods, and restore our dignity so that the

T he state and public officers responsible for tax policies and people of Kenya can enjoy economic prosperity.
tax administration must be reminded that people don’t work

Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

19
 Settling Pending Bills
By EiK Correspondent

Eligible pending bills are unsettled financial obligations that

occur at the end of a financial year as a result of failure to pay for
goods and services that have been properly procured. Ineligible
pending on the other hand are those with audit queries and lack
proper documentation to support the delivery of goods and
services by firms.

How Serious is The Pending Bill

Problem?
In this special audit the report showed that as at that date County
Governments had higher eligible pending bills at 57.5% while the
National Government had only 25.8% of the total pending bills,
categorized as eligible pending bills.

It is interesting to note that as at the time of that audit the

ineligible pending bills were

more prevelant in the national governmentwhere 74.2% of the

total value of the pending bills compared to 42.5% at the county
level.

According to a 2019 World Bank report on the state of the

economy in Kenya pending bills had increased from 0.9% to
1.6% in the 2017/2018 financial year. Pending Bills in counties
increased by 59.38% to 153.02 billion in the 2021/2022
Picture: Courtesy financial year from 96 billion in 2020/2021. According to the CoB
as at December 31st, 2022 counties reported a rise in pending
bills to 157.87 billion.

I n the midst of the unfolding economic and political crisis

engulfing the country the ever-rising Pending Bills challenge is
not getting the attention it deserves and yet a resolution of this
This implies that there is a growing buildup of pending bills in
the economy over time as a result of delayed payment by the
challenge should top the list of the extremely urgent things to do government.
to revive the struggling economy. The government must urgently
find ways and means of immediately discharging it’s obligations According to recent media reports, the National Treasury
to contractors, suppliers and service providers. estimates that the National Government owes businesses an
accumulated figure of over Ksh 650 billion while the Controller of
Many of these entities are local are small micro and medium Budget also estimates that county governments owe suppliers
enterprises (SMSEs). A 2018 World Bank Enterprise Survey for and businesses about Sh159.9 billion as of June 2023. Chris
Kenya report shows that most firms that secured government Kiptoo the Principal Secretary to the National Treasury was
contracts were small firms at 40% followed by medium firms reported in the Star newspaper of 1st February 2024 to have
at 35% and large firms at 25%. It also reported that 9% of the observed that: “The accumulated pending bills have led to
firms with government contracts were for youth, women and for reduction of profitability of enterprises by negatively impacting
persons living with disabilities under the affirmative platforms. the value of payment due to the time variation which has led to
most firms being bankrupt.”

What Are Pending bills? The Principal Secretary was reported to have promised that
government would begin clearing pending bills in March 2024.
A special audit on pending bills done by the Office of this Auditor Despite the call, a review by the Controller of Budget covering
General (OAG) on the status of Pending bills in Kenya as at 30th the first quarter of the current financial year revealed that no
June 2018 categorized pending bills into: pending bills were settled.
a. eligible pending bills, and
In spite of government acknowledgement of the severity of the
b. ineligible pending bills. pending bills crisis the Business Daily newspaper of 11th June
2024 carried a story on pending bills with the headline:

20 Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

“Pending Bills nightmare as State allocates zero budget.” for the government to clear the bills that were reported to have
been cleared as eligible for payment and yet there are no signs
Moreover the prevelance of ineligible pending bills should be of payment because no adequate provisions were made in the
of grave concern because it implies that firms with such bills 2024/2025 budget for the national government.
categorized as ineligible pending bills face the risk of not being
paid at all for the goods and services they delivered to the
government. Why Are Pending Bills Rising?
According to the Controller of Budget (CoB) pending bills in
Pending Bills and Corruption counties are due to:

The problem of rising pending bills and especially the notion of a) Delays by the National Treasury disbursing funds to
ineligible pending bills is complicated by the perception that spending entities on a timely basis leading to outstanding
some of the claims are fraudulent and are a result of criminal payments at the end of the financial year.
collusion between officials in the government procuring
b) Diversion of the funds meant to pay the bills to other
entities and corrupt individuals and business entities. The CoB
purposes
has accused counties for example of manipulating approved
requisitions by making fictitious or discriminatory payments. c) Underperformance of Own Source Revenue leading to
The government must move with speed to resolve the issue by Budget deficits and unfunded commitments
separating any fraudulent claims from genuine claims so that
d) Failure by the spending entities to align their procurement
honest businesses are paid speedily. In fact it is to be assumed
plans to cash flow plans and approved budgets
that is the reason government set up a Pending Bills Verification
Committee. e) Delays in approving Supplementary Budgets and Failure to
adopt previous year’s pending bills in the revised budget
lead to settlement delays
Pending Bills Verification f) IFMIS related challenges where the system is also
frequently closed to prevent procurement.
Under Gazette No. 13355 of 30th June 2023, the Cabinet
Secretary, the National Treasury and Economic Planning
appointed a Pending Bills Verification Committee to carry out The CoB also complained that Office of the CoB adequately
a thorough analysis of the stock of pending bills that had oversight role to verify settlement of approved bills because
accumulated from June 2006 to June 2022. they can not access county banking records.

The mandates of the committee included: Pending Bills Is Impunity

a) scrutinising analysing existing National Government The existence of an increasing pending bills phenomenon at
pending bills that have accumulated between June 2005 both levels of government in the country is a sign of impunity
and June 2022 and make recommendations on the and gross financial mismanagement by those in charge of the
government on settlement of the same; management of public finances and affairs.
b) establish a clear criteria for detailed examination of and
analysis of such pending bills or claims with a view to This is particularly worrisome because there is a legal framework
determining the genuineness of each or otherwise; to prevent the proliferation of pending bills.
c) make recommendations to the National Treasury on the
necessary actions to be taken for satisfactory disposal or It is an offence under section 74 of the PFMA (2012) for
settlement of identified pending bills or claims; Accounting Officers to implement activities without approved
budgets and or failing to pay for legally incurred expenditures
d) identify any cases where there may have been corrupt, that is responsible for the continued accumulation of pending
fraudulent and false claims against the government bills.
and make appropriate commendations to the relevant
government agencies;
Additionally section 53(8) of the Public Procurement and Disposal
e) develop reforms or measures that will ensure future Act (PPDA) directs all accounting officers not to commence any
accumulation of pending bills is avoided; procurement proceedings until they are satisfied that sufficient
f) perform any other function incidental to the foregoing. funds to meet the obligations of the resulting contract are in the
approved budget estimates.
Even though the committee has not completed the assignment
creditors owed by government have been anxiously waiting

Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

21
 What Must Be Done It has also been suggested the government should consider
shifting its budgeting from the current cash basis to an accrual
basis. Accrual accounting is preferable and beneficial because
The government must urgently find ways to clear the pending it prioritises payment of trade debts and arrears in all budget
claims and put in place measures to prevent further accumulation allocations and will therefore reduce pending bills.
of new pending bills to enhance the survival of the private sector.
It doesn’t make sense that the government bends backwards to
When this government came to office in 2022 they promised to
pay debts owed to foreign and local banks and financiers while
prioritize the resolution of pending bills to facilitate economic
completely ignoring local businesses.
growth by proposing securitization of the pending bills so that
the pending bills were to be transformed into securities that can
To prevent further accumulation of pending bills Kenya Private be sold in the market to raise cash for payment. The government
Sector Alliance ( KEPSA) proposed to the President that the PFM was therefore reported to be considering hiring a transactional
Act be amended to provide for payment of goods and services advisor to assist with the issuance of a Sh500 billion bond aimed
supplied to government within 30 to 60 days and to government at lessening the burden of these bills on annual government
and officers liable for the delays in payment beyond the budget allocations.
stipulated period criminally liable. In addition an ammendment
should provide for interest payable on all bills after the lapse of
However it is said that the government opted to abandon the
sixty days.
securitization plan because of the country’s declining ability to
borrow.
A study done by the Kenya Institute of Public Policy Research
and Analysis (KIPPRA) entitled: “Pending Bills: Will the Private
In spite of that challenge the government issued a three-year
Sector Survive?” published on 29th July 2020 has suggested
bond in June 2023 to pay off the Sh45.8 billion debt owed to oil
that Kenya could benefit from experience of Italy and Spain.
marketers resulting from the discontinued fuel subsidy scheme.
Faced with increases in pending bills the Italian government
Securitization would have enabled the government to access
announced a major programme to a tune of EUR 40 billion to
immediate capital to pay off the creditors. Such a move would
clear pending bills arrears within a period of two years. This
relieve the crisis facing those businesses and the economy
programme was expanded to EUR 66 billion and by October
in general. It would also enhance cash flow management for
2014 about 49% of pending bills had been cleared. To eliminate
suppliers by ensuring predictable income.
administrative bottlenecks the Italian government also
introduced electronic invoicing and the online publication of all
the data in the electronic invoices to enhance transparency and If government is willing and able to borrow to pay the public debt
accountability. it should also find ways to clear the pending bills. Otherwise
the impression is created that the government is willing to
strangulate local businesses to serve foreign interests.
Spain on the other hand introduced syndicated guaranteed
loans worth EUR 30 billion in 2012 to help regional and local
governments to clear pending bills.

Picture: Courtesy

22 Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

Strategies for Transformation of
Kenyan Agriculture.
By Eng. Prof. Lawrence O. Gumbe

equipment is determined by the

production systems which include
farm size and availability of power. For
successful agricultural mechanization
planning and implementation, a holistic
approach should be used to encompass
private sector involvement, economic
profitability and creation of an enabling
environment.

1.2 Industrialisation
Eng. Eng. Prof. Lawrence O. Industrialisation is the process by which
Gumbe a country builds its capacity to process
raw materials for consumption or further
production1. Involves the mechanization
1 Introduction of manufacturing and an increase in
the importance of manufacturing in the
The modern world has largely been an overall economy. Typically, it occurs
engineering project. The structures, in economies previously dominated
machines, processes and organisation, by agriculture and usually involves
which have led to increased affluence, important changes in food production as
increased life expectancy, comfort and well2.
enlightenment are all largely due to
engineering efforts. Industrialisation offer us a unique
scope for learning, improvement and
Kenya’s Vision 2030, which aims to transformation especially in science,
transform the country into a newly technology and innovation. Historically,
industrialised, middle- income country countries have travelled different routes
economy, providing high quality of life to industrialise. However, it is instructive
to all its citizens by the year 2030, is to note that research and innovation has
largely an engineering project. This vision been a key feature especially in newly
recognises agriculture as a key sector. industrialising countries which have had
to adopt catch-up strategies.
1.1 Engineering in
Agriculture 1.3 Agricultural
Mechanisation in the
Engineering inputs in agriculture World.
are effected through agricultural
mechanisation. Agricultural According to Hans Binswanger3, between
mechanisation aims at increasing the the 16th century and the mid-19th
power inputs to farming activities hence century, the now developed country like
intensified production and enhanced Great Britain saw a massive increase
value addition resulting to decreased in agricultural productivity and net
cost of production and reduction of output. New agricultural practices like
drudgery in farming activities. enclosure, mechanization, four-field crop
rotation and selective breeding enabled
The different sources of agricultural an unprecedented population growth,
power available include human, animal, freeing up a significant percentage of the
mechanical, electrical, and renewable workforce, and thereby helped drive the
energy. Use of farm machinery and Industrial Revolution.
1 Michael P. Todaro (1989): Economic development in the Third World. London; 4th Edition. New York: Picture: Courtesy
Longman
2 John Hinshaw and Peter N. Stearns (2013): Industrialization in the Modern World
3 Hans Binswanger, (1986): Agricultural Mechanization: A Comparative Historical Perspective. The World
Bank Research Observer. Vol. 1, No. 1 (Jan., 1986), pp. 27-56

Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

23
 In 1900 farmers represented 38 percent of the U.S. labour force. 2.1 Crop Production Systems
By the end of the century that number had plunged to 3 percent-
dramatic evidence of the revolution in agriculture brought about Crop production systems consist of small, medium and large-
by mechanization. Beginning with the internal combustion scale farms averaging 0.2 to 5, 5 to 100 and over 100 hectares,
engine and moving on to rubber tires that kept machinery from respectively. Small-scale farmers are predominant in the
sinking in muddy soil, mechanization also improved the farm high and medium rainfall areas that produce over 75 percent
implements designed for planting, harvesting, and reaping. The of agricultural production. Use of machinery on small-scale
advent of the combine, for example, introduced an economically systems is very low in relation to the medium and large-scale
efficient way to harvest and separate grain. agricultural production systems.

As the century closed, “precision agriculture” became the

practice, combining the farmer’s down-to-earth know-how with 2.2 Livestock Production Systems
space-based technology. 1902, First U.S. factory for tractors
driven by an internal combustion engine. 1966, Electronic Most of the livestock is raised in extensive systems with
monitoring devices allowed farmers to plant crops more communal grazing and free ranging of rain-fed rangelands.
efficiently. Attached to mechanical planters and air seeders, Intensive production is practiced in the high rainfall areas, semi-
the devices monitor the number and spacing of seeds being intensive systems are found in semi-arid lands and extensively
planted. The devices monitor the planting of up to 96 rows at a in arid areas. Use of mechanized livestock production systems
time. During the 1990s, similar devices are used at harvest time is very low. However, potential for mechanization is high to meet
for yield mapping, or measuring and displaying the quality and the growing demand for livestock and livestock products.
quantity of a harvest as the combine moves through the field.
1994, Farmers begin using Global Positioning System (GPS) 2.3 Fisheries Production Systems
receivers. Ushering in the new “precision agriculture,” farmers
begin using Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers to record
precise locations on their farms to determine which areas Fisheries production systems include capture which takes place
need particular quantities of water, fertilizer, and pesticides. in the marine waters, inland waters and aquaculture which can
The information can be stored on a card and transferred to a be land based in ponds or water based in cages. Production
home computer. Farmers can now combine such data with systems in capture fisheries are categorized into artisanal
yield information, weather forecasts, and soil analysis to create fishing and semi-industrial fishing. Aquaculture systems
spreadsheets. These tools enable even greater efficiency in are categorized as semi-intensive, intensive and extensive
food production. depending on the inputs and production system. However,
adoption of mechanized production system is low.
In the 21th century, agricultural mechanisation is changing,
Precision agriculture to ensure efficiency of inputs such as 3.0 Agriculture and Employment
water and fertilizer application, and to maximize productivity,
quality, and yield, tractor performance, soil type and soil tests It is often argued that as agriculture employs the vast majority
and other equipment’s by use of satellite imagery, GIS tool and of our labour force, it is therefore our most significant economic
GPS devices, use of Internet of Things (IoT), driverless tractor sector. Implicit in this statement is that this state of the affairs
has to be maintained, at least for the foreseeable future. What is
African countries have an economy strongly dominated by the the validity of this argument?
agriculture sector. Agriculture generates up to 50 percent of gross
domestic product (GDP), contributing more than 80 percent As stated above, the primary objective of agriculture is to provide
of trade in value and more than 50 percent of raw materials to food and other raw materials. This process must obviously be
industries. It provides employment for the majority of Africa’s carried out in the’ most efficient and cost- effective manner.
people4. In Kenya, agriculture contributes approximately 26 Employment is created in this sector because we require human
percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), 60 percent of the labour intervention in the production process. Mechanisation
export earnings and employs 75 percent of the national labour leads to more labour and process efficiency, resulting in
force5. Given its importance, the performance of the sector better energy utilization and lower production costs. In an
therefore directly impacts on the whole economy. Despite this industrializing economy, labour requirements are reduced in
domination and the fact that agriculture is backed with good various industries as production systems are progressively
policy documents and statements, investment in the sector is mechanised. The workers displaced in such industries are
still grossly underdeveloped in most African countries. absorbed in other industries where they are required. In fact,
the lowest unemployment rates are in the most industrialized
2.0 Agricultural Production Systems in countries which have the highest levels of agricultural
mechanisation6.
Kenya
Mechanising our agriculture will displace some labour from the
Agricultural production consists of crops, livestock and fisheries sector. This is actually desirable in a modem industrialising
systems. These require mechanization to increase productivity economy. In such an economy, labour is required in many other
and tap the enormous existing potential. areas.
4 Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (2008): Agricultural mechanization in Africa. Planning investment for enhanced agricultural productivity Report.
Rome

5 Republic of Kenya, Ministry (2017): Agricultural Mechanization Policy. Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries
6 Mrema, G.C, D. Baker and D. Kahan (2008). Agricultural Mechanisation in Sub- Saharan Africa: Time for a new look. FAO Rome

24 Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

4.0 Challenges in Agricultural 4. Investments in Agricultural Mechanization.
Mechanisation
For us to industrialize and mechanise our agriculture,
we need to have meaningful investment in science and
The challenges facing agricultural mechanisation in Kenya technology research and consultancy. This should include
include: Inadequate machinery, Inadequate staff; plant the nurturing of a patriotic community of researchers and
operators and mechanics, Inadequate mechanization extension, consultants in agriculture, engineering and other related
Inadequate access to mechanization technologies, Lack of areas of science and technology.
adequate credit and finance to farmers and private contractors,
Inadequate after sales and service back-up, Decreasing land
The funding of research should be carried out primarily by
sizes, Enterprises that does not support mechanization business
our government. Most foreign research funders actually
model, Vast area of coverage for the Government mechanization
know what results they want. They just want their positions
stations, In adequate resources/ funding for stations, Gender
reinforced by local researchers. Our researchers must be
and youth imbalance in agriculture, Aged farming citizens paid meaningful salaries; they cannot be expected to do
among others. any useful work if they are constantly hustling to keep
alive. Worse still, the low pay entices them into the hands
5.0 The Way Forward of foreign agencies; they become consultants for these
agencies locally or they leave the country altogether to
affect the same.
The basic approach to economic development trough agriculture
that we should take should be that of a nation based on modem
industry. That is: We should industrialise. 6.0 Conclusion
1. Reform and transform agricultural mechanization. This Industrialization and agricultural mechanisation will only
is the only way that we can expand the production of food be possible through enlightened political leadership. The
and capital equipment to satisfy the basic needs of our government must reconcile apparently opposing sides in:
people. Industries using modem large scale methods have production and consumption; agriculture and industry; heavy
to be supplemented by small industries which may be and light industry; and large scale and small scale agriculture7 8 9
particularly suited for better utilization of local resources,
and for achievement of local self-sufficiency in respect of
The government should involve our local experts in clearly
certain types of essential consumer goods like food, cloth
defining our industrialization and agricultural mechanisation
and agricultural implements.
objectives. Correctly defined strategic programmes should
be implemented by competent professionals who are deft at
For the small-scale industries to survive and thrive, they tactical management.
have to be supplied with a number of factors including:
Cheap raw materials; cheap, efficient and reliable power;
technical advice; organized marketing of produce; and Where necessary, the private sector should be motivated
where necessary, safeguards against intensive competition and nurtured to provide a useful input in our agricultural
from imports. mechanisation efforts. However, the government bears the
ultimate responsibility for economic development.
2. The perverse position that, in modem times, that we must
permanently run an economy in which a significant sector For economic development, and to ensure our very survival we
is engaged in agricultural production using rudimentary must industrialize our economy and mechanise our agriculture
hand tools, animal powered technologies and manual using modern methods. There is no other way.
machines such as oil presses should be opposed.

3. Agriculture, really, like all production processes, is a

thermodynamic process. There must be a minimum energy
input into the system to achieve meaningful production.

Picture: Courtesy

7 Gumbe, L. (1996): Agricultural Mechanisation for Development. Chairman’s speech. Eight International Conference. Kenya Society of Agricultural Engineers. 4 Sep-
tember, 1996 Milimani Hotel. Nairobi

8 G.C. Mrema, L.O.Gumbe, H.J. Chepete and J.O.Agullo. (2011): Rural Structures in the Tropics. Engineering Design and Development. FAO. Rome. Italy. ISBN 978-92-
5-107047-5

9 McRota, HJ. And L.O. Gumbe (2000): Mechanisation of Small-Scale Farms: A Partial Solution to Poverty and Food Security in Kenya

Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

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The Role of Kenyan Engineers In
Infrastructure Development
Challenges, Achievements and Future
Prospects
By. Eng. Jane Mutulili, CE

offer immediate interventions to restore flow in Nairobi, reducing travel time

usability. Moving on, ACEK is proposing significantly and the amount spent
designs and construction of climate- fuel.
resilient infrastructure so that the • LAPSSET Corridor: A multi-faceted
vagaries of the weather do not render total project aimed at enhancing regional
shut down. This involves using previous integration and economic growth,
data to monitor which structures are still still on going
functional and which need urgent repairs.
• Northern Corridor: This has improved
trade routes and accessibility to
Significant infrastructure neighboring countries.
projects led by Kenyan
• Kenol-Makutano Road: Is enhancing
Engineers in the last local and regional connectivity,
Eng. Jane Mutulili, CE decade boosting economic activities.
Chairperson, ACEK
• Access roads are also vital for
Significance of infrastructure project connecting remote areas to major
can be very relative. What may look
Overview of the current very significant to a driver in Nairobi
infrastructure as they improve
state of infrastructure accessibility.
may have little value to a farmer in Kieni
development in Kenya whereas the access road from Pura • Thwake Dam: 2nd largest after
and the role of Kenyan to Endarasha in Kieni, which has little Masinga Dam, will provide water
value to many people may be the most supply for domestic, livestock,
Engineers irrigation, hydropower and even
important infrastructure for the users
there. REREC, mandated to power remote industrial activities in the Kitui,
The recent floods have caused extensive areas in Kenya has done significant Makueni and Embu Counties.
damage to various infrastructure, works in supplying power to many rural
bringing to light the urgent need for • Karemenu Dam: The dam serves
area, especially renewable energy Gatundu, Ruiru, Juja, Tatu City,
reconstruction and rehabilitation. Before while KeRRA and county governments Githurai and parts of Nairobi.
the floods, the infrastructure might have connected many rural areas with
not have been optimal, but the recent roads. Water supply projects, though • Kimuka sub-station – which will play
situation demands immediate action not significantly expensive, and have a crucial role in strengthening the
to restore usability. For instance, the made major impacts in the social fabrics existing power distribution network
bridge towards Garissa was completely especially on women and children. and positively impact over 600,000
destroyed by the floods, underscoring people
the vulnerability of infrastructure to
natural calamities. During drought, Having said that, some of the nationally Ensuring Continuous
many water infrastructure projects, like significant infrastructure projects in the Professional
water pans and wells, are also rendered recent years, some complete and some Development for ACEK
ongoing include:-
unusable as they dry up. members
Engineers are actively involved in various • The Standard Gauge Railway (SGR)
which is a major railway project i. The upcoming 3rd annual conference
sectors including water, roads, and power, will focus on “Engineering
working towards assessing and restoring in improving transportation and
logistics across the country. and Engineered Materials and
infrastructure. Equipment.” It serves as a platform
• Dongo Kundu Bypass: This project for showcasing new technologies
The Association of Consulting Engineers enhances connectivity and reduces and encouraging innovation.
of Kenya (ACEK) has proposed congestion in the coastal region.
‘’We have traditional equipment
collaborating with relevant authorities to • Nairobi Expressway: This has and materials used and also have
assess the state of infrastructure and to actively facilitated smoother traffic the ones engineered to suit the

Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

27
 current technology. We have one She says, ‘’It is until this is curbed, or • Do not be driven by popularity and
of our exhibitors for the upcoming at least reduced significantly, that we stand by the truth. This reflects on
conference who is going to give us shall make greater steps on matters the importance of making decisions
an alternative to steel, which has infrastructural development. With this, based on solid data, research, and
been used since time immemorial. so much can be achieved with the thorough analysis rather than on
Others exhibitors are coming to same resources, even without too much what is popular. Also, maintain
show case recent innovations adjustment of the current budget for integrity and ethical standards in all
and improvements to traditional infrastructural development. professional activities for long-term
materials which will make benefits.
infrastructure projects cheaper and
We also need to cut down on costs for • Registration in professional
more resilient. This is a platform for
materials and equipment by finding bodies and active participation:
engineers and other stakeholders
alternatives that are less costly but with It is important to register with
to showcase new technologies
the same effectiveness in engineering professional bodies like EBK, ACEK
and encourage innovation in the
works. This can easily be achieved and IEK to gain formal recognition
industry,’’ says Eng. Mutulili.
by increasing manufacturing and and credibility in the engineering
ii. FIDIC Trainings offers training industry, but the government has to give community.
on project management to help incentives for the same. We applaud the • Senior Engineers do not gatekeep:
engineers address various project- government on the thoughts of industrial ACEK advocates for an inclusive and
related issues. parks within the counties and if these supportive environment, ensuring
iii. Regular webinars, including topics are realized, then we shall devolve many that all engineers have equal
like Public-Private Partnerships, services, create jobs within the counties opportunities to contribute and grow.
provide ongoing education and and generally improve livelihoods. There are not enough engineers to
discussion forums for Engineers. undertake all the works that need to
In the next decade, I honestly envision be done in this country and therefore
iv. Specific Training, eg. Ongoing
devolved development. There is the more registered engineers the
Infrastructure Management Training:
absolutely no remote area that will be better for the professional and for
ACEK recently had a training session
left behind. I also see more engineers the country
focused on effective infrastructure
deployed in the counties as opposed
management practices.
to the current state where a majority of Parting shot
v. Bespoke Training: ACEK holds the Consulting Engineers are based in
customized training programs Nairobi.’’ • Eng. Mutulili encourages more
offering exposure to international engineers, especially women, to
expertise. Encourages members to pursue consulting roles to bridge
participate in professional training Message of the the existing gender gap in the
with EBK and IEK for comprehensive Chairperson, ACEK, engineering field.
development. to Young Engineers
vi. Hands-on learning experiences for aspiring to take up
engineers through visits to industrial leadership roles
sites provides a bridge between
theoretical knowledge and practical First of all is to commend the young
application.
people for not only acknowledging when
vii. Software trainings led by the things are going wrong, but deciding to
Future Leaders ACEK members: take actions on the same. They have
These trainings aim to equip young seen better and believe things can be
engineers with the latest software better. They have called everyone to
tools and technologies used in attention to incompetence, corruption,
the engineering field. This aids in accountability, irresponsible citizenry
technical skills enhancement and and all vices that afflict our nation.
ensuring engineers are up-to-date Sometimes when things have been
with industry standards. done so continuously, they seem to be
the norm, and therefore I thank them for
The evolving role of realizing and telling us that that cannot
Kenyan Engineers in the be the normal! Specifically to our young
next decade engineers:-

According Chairperson ACEK, Kenya • Have a good grip of Your Area of

needs to be accountable for it’s resource Specialization: Leadership entails
management. There is too much significant responsibilities and
misuse, pilferage and generally waste of requires a deep understanding
resources, which are not adequate in the of one’s area of specialization to Picture: Courtesy
first instance build competence and credibility
and effectiveness in leadership.
It also gives you confidence in
engagements

28 Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

The Triple Blessings of Competency
Based Education, Washighton Accord
and Artificial Intelligence in Engineering
Education in Kenya.

Fidelis Ndambuki Kilonzo1,2

1
School of Engineering & Architecture, Kenyatta University, P.O BOX 43844-00100, Nairobi, Kenya
2
IEK - Policy Research and Advisory Committee
Picture: Courtesy
[email protected]

1 Introduction industry exposure for would be engineering students, limited

practical learning opportunities due to overwhelming student
numbers, and an absence of essential soft skills development,
T he Kenyan education system is undergoing a paradigm shift
from “learner- taught to learner assisted”. Whereas the 8.4.4
system introduced in 1985 is a teacher-centered system that
such as teamwork and effective communication, largely
attributed to the transition to blended/online learning modalities.
Additionally, the inadequate support structures for internships
focuses on academic achievement, the Competency based
and the absence of robust academia-industry partnerships
education CBE is a learner-centered system that focuses on
compound the challenges faced by engineering education in
developing competencies. Though implementation of the CBE
Kenya.
started in 2017, the transition from middle school (grade 6) to
junior secondary (grade 7) has been marred by chaos, indecision
and infrastructural and logistic challenges subjecting learners This complex set of issues demands immediate attention and
to anxiety and frustrations while leaving many learners in rural comprehensive solutions to ensure the development of a
and poor families grossly disadvantaged and disenfranchised. competent and inclusive engineering workforce that can meet
The preparations for transition from junior to senior secondary the nation’s growing demands. Fortunately, three unrelated
are lackluster with nothing existing for the receiving of the but mutually beneficial and inevitable happening are going
learners for tertiary education. The Kenyan Government to enormously favor the engineering fraternity in Kenya if
through the Kenya Institute of Curriculum development has well harnessed and utilized. The mainstream use of Artificial
developed the framework for the CBE for basic education with Intelligence in day to day life catalyzed by the use of large
clear progression from Early Years Education to Senior School at language models in 2003, the acceding to the Washington
Grade 12 (KICD, 2017). The idea is to develop a framework for accord, 2005, and the transition to the competency based
engineering education from scratch using beacons provided education in 2009. Firstly, the use of AI as a brainstorming
for in the guidelines from the accreditation and professional partner in curriculum development where there is no existing
regulators, since the framework for university tertiary education local benchmark is a creative and unconventional approach
is unavailable and unclear, despite the expected onboarding of to the development of engineering education framework in
Learners under the new system to join university in 2029. Kenya that will meet international engineering education
standards. Secondly, with reinforcement training using the
5-year engineering curriculum the system would be expected
In the rapidly expanding landscape of higher education in
to generate a model/template engineering curriculum that
Kenya, the engineering education sector faces multifaceted
adequately meets the competencies expected by the
challenges that hinder its ability to produce a diverse and
professional standards as guided by the Washington Accord
competent workforce. Despite a proliferation of colleges and
of the international engineering alliance. Finally, the basic
campuses, there persists a concerning apathy towards STEM
education curriculum for the CBE has a clearly defined Science,
fields, particularly among female students, exacerbated by
Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) pathway
gender biases, stereotypes, and social prejudices (Mbirianjau,
that underscore the competence in readiness for the University
2018). This has created a ‘leaky pipeline’ effect (Bickerstaff,
Engineering programme.
2006) resulting in a significant loss of potential engineers.
Furthermore, the sector grapples with the lack of pre-study

Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

29
 2 Settings an artisan nature of mass production of low quality and
unstandardized educational products”.

T he study looked at the education landscape in Kenya in

as far as engineering is concerned. It explored through a
purposive literature review methodology the main challenges
Despite and inspite of this momentous growth in the higher
education enrollment, the percentage of women in the Science,
facing the engineering education sector, the root causes for Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) pathway
these challenges. With the advent of the Competency-Based has remained low. This is despite the gains in high number girls
Education and Outcome-Based Education, the study looks major of exiting the secondary school level and the relatively good
aspects the two approaches as will be shaped by leveraging on performance of girls in the university entrance examination
the mainstream use of AI. There are 12 public and one private (KCSE). Table 1 shows the percentage of the top 15 Overall
universities in the country with a faculty of engineering. In total students as announced by the Ministry of education for the
there are 148 engineering programmes offered in Kenya. All different years from 2016-2021.
Engineering Schools in Kenya without exceptions are faced with
two big challenges, namely Lack of qualified motivated staff and Table 1: Percentage by gender of 15 top overall KCSE students
poor teaching facilities. The study will evaluate the possibility in different years
of using AI to scale the engineering education workspace by
empowering learners and making faculty more engaged by
bringing new insights to the lecture hall. The study will also Year
determine the idea of leveraging on AI to be used to augment Gender 2016* 2017 2018 2019** 2020 2021
physical laboratory with Virtual (reality) laboratories and Male, % 20 33 73 50 60 67
workshops to support the new curriculum that will be developed
Female,% 80 67 27 50 40 33
under CBE/OBE.
* top 20 overall

3 Results ** top 10 overall

T he democratization of education, the advent of knowledge The number of female students qualifying for University
economy, and the introduction free compulsory basic education is comparable or even outnumber those of male
education (Muema 2020) lead to the high enrollment for students as shown in table 2 below for 2016.
University leading to the massification (Mohammedhai,
2008) of University education. This mass demand for higher Table 2: University qualifying examination- 2016
education led to the conversion of tertiary and technical
institutions to Universities, and the mushrooming of campuses
Overall National University qualifying grade -2016
all-over the country. According to Irungu and Kamencu 2016,
the demand for higher education opened up opportunities Gender A A- B+ B B- C+ Total %
for individuals, organizations, and other investors to open up Female 58 2685 6581 10204 13649 17238 50415 57
colleges and universities to meet the demand and fill the gap Male 83 1960 4394 7012 10096 14969 38514 43
that public institutions have been unable to meet. As a result
Total 88929 100
of these expansions, facilities were limited or nonexistent, and
teaching staff was spread thinly leading to deterioration in the
quality of education. According to Muema and Lavery, 2018, The specific implementation of OBE or CBE may vary based
the consequences of massification caused Juakalization in on regional policies, educational philosophies, and industry
higher education. They defined Juakalization as “the dilution demands. The key comparative difference between OBE and CBE
and conversion of high quality university education to assume are summarized in table 3 below.

Table 3: Comparison of the two student-centric education systems due to launch in Kenya in 2025 and 2029

4 Discussions graduate attribute competency profiles for the accords

(Washington Accord, Dublin Accord and Sydney Accord) in 2001
brought about a paradigm shift in the pedagogy of engineering
B oth Competency-Based Education and Outcome-Based
Education have their own strengths and may be implemented
in various ways across different educational institutions and
educations (Qadir et al., 2020), from teacher-centric to learner-
centric learning (ie content-centered to outcome-centered). The
Outcome Based Engineering Education (OBEE) is an approach
programs. The development of the specification of consensus

30 Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

to education in which decisions about the Curriculum are driven administrative tasks like grading, scheduling, and managing
by the outcomes the students should display by the end of the course materials. This frees up faculty members to focus on
course rather than on the educational process (Deepak and teaching and interacting with students. AI can provide faculty
Venishri, 2018). OBEE involves the formulation of the program with detailed insights into student performance, highlighting
educational objectives, the program outcomes and the course areas of strength and weakness. This allows instructors to
outcomes that are steered to ensure the professional knowledge, adjust their teaching strategies accordingly. AI algorithms can
skills, abilities, values and attitudes of the learners and graduates recommend supplementary materials, resources, or activities
reflect the professional expectations of the Industry who are that align with the curriculum, enriching the learning experience.
key partners and stakeholders in the project (Sawant, 2017). AI-enabled tools can provide instant feedback on assignments
The Washington Accord sits under the IEA alongside the Sydney and assessments, allowing faculty to address misconceptions
and Dublin Accords. Quality engineers are developed with an or areas needing improvement promptly. AI-powered discussion
accord-recognized degree or equivalent, through experience platforms can help facilitate online discussions by suggesting
after graduation to develop both professional and personal relevant questions or topics based on the course content and
maturity, and by meeting an agreed competence typically student interactions. AI can create adaptive assessments that
measured by evaluation against 13 elements (Graduate adjust the difficulty level based on the student’s performance.
Attributes). As per IEA, 2023 records, there are 23 signatories This ensures that students are appropriately challenged and
with full rights of participation in the accord ie the Qualifications engaged. AI-powered chatbots or virtual assistants can answer
accredited or recognized by other signatories are recognized by common student queries, offer resources, and provide support,
each signatory as being substantially equivalent to accredited allowing faculty to focus on more complex interactions. AI
or recognized qualifications within its own jurisdiction. Further systems can analyze student sentiment and engagement levels
there are 7 provisional signatories who are recognized as having based on their interactions with digital content. This information
appropriate systems and processes in place to develop towards can be used to adapt teaching strategies. AI can assist in creating
becoming a full signatory. accessible content for students with disabilities, ensuring that
all students have equal access to the material.
According to Rao, 2013, the benefits of OBE include; help faculty
members take a more holistic view of the student’s educational 5 Conclusions
experiences, select course content and decide on how much
time to allocate to each topic, create relevant assignments to
make the students practice their learnings in the class; and
design relevant tests to assess their learnings. Further, when T he amalgamation of Competency-Based Education (CBE) and
Outcome-Based Education (OBE), coupled with harnessing
the vast potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI), holds immense
students have a clear understanding of what is expected of
them, it may help them to prepare themselves better and meet promise for engineering education in Kenya. The fusion of these
the expectations help assess learning and teaching methods approaches stands to revolutionize the learning landscape,
and establish feedback mechanisms. The use of Artificial equipping students with practical skills and knowledge that
intelligence (AI) has the potential to revolutionize education by align seamlessly with industry requirements. However, to
empowering learners in many ways. Some of these ways include; bring this vision to fruition, a critical need arises for open and
AI can be used to tailor instruction to the individual needs of candid dialogues between the realms of academia and industry.
each learner, identifying their strengths and weaknesses and This mutual exchange of insights and perspectives will be
providing them with the most relevant content and activities. instrumental in shaping curricula that are not only dynamic but
This can help learners to learn more effectively and efficiently. also responsive to the evolving demands of the engineering
AI can be used to adapt the difficulty of the content and activities sector.
to the learner’s progress, ensuring that they are challenged but
not overwhelmed. This can help learners to stay motivated Furthermore, realizing the full potential of this transformation
and engaged in their learning. AI can be used to add a game- requires concerted efforts. Collaborative endeavors between
like element to learning, making it more fun and engaging for educational institutions and industry stakeholders are
learners. This can help learners to stay motivated and focused paramount. By pooling resources, expertise, and experiences,
on their learning goals. AI can be used to create VR and AR these partnerships can collectively address the challenges
experiences that allow learners to interact with the content in that currently hinder the realization of this vision. Additionally,
a more immersive and engaging way. This can help learners to investing in robust research and development initiatives is
better understand and remember the content.And finally, AI can imperative. This investment will pave the way for innovations
be used to create chatbots that can answer learners’ questions in pedagogy, instructional technology, and AI applications,
and provide them with support. This can help learners to get the ensuring that engineering education remains at the forefront of
help they need when they need it, without having to wait for a global advancements.
human instructor.
In essence, the journey towards a more dynamic and industry-
Likewise, there are many ways that AI can be leveraged to relevant engineering education system in Kenya is contingent
enhance faculty engagement including: AI-powered systems on the commitment and concerted actions of all stakeholders.
can analyze individual student data and suggest personalized Through dialogue, collaboration, and strategic investments, we
learning paths, allowing faculty to tailor their teaching can unlock the full potential of CBE, OBE, and AI, ushering in a
methods to better suit each student’s needs. AI can handle new era of excellence in engineering education.

Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

31
 6 References Mohamedbhai, G. (2008). Higher education in Africa. Boston:
Knight.
Blickenstaff J. Clark., (2005) Women and science careers: leaky Muema E. M., (2020). Leadership and policy for reforms and
pipeline or gender filter?, Gender and Education, 17:4, 369-386, change in higher education: a review of the juakalization phe-
DOI: 10.1080/09540250500145072. nomenon of public universities in Kenya, PhD dissertation,
Bowling Green State University.
Deepak, T. J., & Venishri, P. (2018). Outcome based education
OBE trend review in engineering education. International Journal Muema E. M., Lavery M. R. Redefining Quality in Higher Educa-
of Trend in Scientific Research and Development, 1(Special Is- tion: The Concept of Juakalization, Sino-US English Teaching,
sue- ICAEIT2017), 41-43. September 2018, Vol. 15, No. 9, 415-428, doi:10.17265/1539-
8072/2018.09.001.
International Engineering Alliance (IEA), (2023) Washington Ac-
cord Signatories, https://www.ieagreements.org/accords/wash- Qadir, J., Shafi, A., Al-Fuqaha, A., Taha, A. E. M., Yau, K. L. A., Pon-
ington/signatories/ accessed 15/09/2023 ciano, J., ... & Tan, B. L. (2020). Outcome-based engineering ed-
ucation: A global report of international obe accreditation and
Irungu J. 1, Kimencu L., (2016), Trends in private higher educa-
assessment practices.
tion: The case of Kenya, In book: A Global Perspective on Private
Higher Education (pp.255-269). Rao, P. O. R. S. (2013). Outcomes based engineering educa-
tion-need of the hour. The Journal of Engineering.
Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD). (2017), Ba-
sic Education Curriculum Framework. Sawant, P. (2017). Course Outcomes Attainment Analysis Using
Automated Tool–IONCUDOS. Journal of Engineering Education
Mbirianjau L. W., (2018): “Why fewer Kenyan women are choos-
Transformations, 30(Special Issue).
ing or completing STEM courses”APHCR.

PICTORIAL
Inspiring Future Engineers: The IEK President, Eng. Shammah Kiteme, and Future Leaders Committee Chair, Eng. Annette Ingaiza Mu-
rambi, inspired and mentored students at Riara Girls' High School during Career Day, encouraging them to pursue exciting careers in
engineer-ing.

32 Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

PICTORIAL
International Women in Engineering Day Celebration, Event held on 21st , June ,2024 :venue Golden Tulip, Westlands Nairobi

Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

33
 Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)
Mechanism for Engineering Contracts,
opportunities and challenges for
Engineers.
By Eng. Fredrick Odhiambo Aluoch, CE, MIEK, MCIArb
Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA) – Technical Services Department Box 30123-00200 Nairobi
Emails: [email protected]

Introduction Tribunal has been mandated to promote other forms of alternative

mechanisms to resolve dispute including reconciliation,
mediation, arbitration and traditional dispute resolution
A lternative Dispute Resolution was conceived of as a dispute
resolution mechanism outside the court of law established1
by the Sovereign or the State. ADR is described as a process or
mechanism.4 As a result ADR has slowly been embraced by the
courts which however, though this has not gone without some
obstacles despite being a step in the right direction making the
mechanisms that parties can use to resolve disputes rather than access to justice very convenient by the general public.5
bringing a claim through the formal court structure.2 The biggest
stepping stone in the field of international ADR is the adoption
“The new landscape will have the following features: Litigation
of UNCITRAL (United Nations Commission on International Trade
will be avoided wherever possible. (a) People will be encouraged
Law) model law on international commercial arbitration. An
to start court proceedings to resolve disputes only as a last
important feature of the said model is that it has harmonised
resort, and after using other more appropriate means when
the concept of arbitration and conciliation in order to designate
these are available. (b) Information on sources of alternative
it for universal application. Many international treaties and
dispute resolution will be provided at all civil courts” Lord Woolf
conventions have been enacted for establishing ADR worldwide.
1995.
Some of the important international conventions on arbitration3
are:
Globally, construction industry is one of the major parameters
for economic and industrial growth for any country,6 and Kenya
• The Geneva Protocol on Arbitration clauses of 1923.
is not an exception. Construction projects are multi-disciplinary
• The Geneva Convention on the execution of foreign award, engagements with so many parties playing different role, with
1927. varying level of experience, diverse educational background,
• The New York Convention of 1958 on the recognition and culture with competing interest that at time makes it a dispute
enforcement of foreign arbitral award. prone industry.7 The advancement in technology in terms of
the artificial intelligence, internet of things in the industry has
made the situation more complex. Not surprisingly, the number
In Kenya, The Constitution of Kenya, 2010, in Article 159 (2)
of reported disputes, conflicts and construction claims globally
provides that:
has been in the increase in the recent past.8 Construction
2) In exercising judicial authority, the courts and tribunals shall contract give rise to very unusual difficult and complex disputes
be guided by the following principles— that prove very hard to evaluate compared to normal litigation
process. The performance of many construction contracts run
(a) justice shall be done to all, irrespective of status;
over much longer periods than most other forms of commercial
(b) justice shall not be delayed; contract, with potential scope for disagreement and financial
disagreement arising constantly during the construction
(c) alternative forms of dispute resolution including
period, and with large sums of money and cash flow pressures
reconciliation, mediation, arbitration and traditional dispute
concerned on both sides. There is plenty chances of disputes
resolution mechanisms shall be promoted, subject to clause
or difference of opinion from the very inception of entering into
(3);
the contract and commencing the work because consistently
Since the enactment of the constitution of Kenya 2010, there both the parties have to meet with reciprocal obligations on
have been a shift in the judicial system and the courts including either side one after the other and a single case of default is

1 Fiadjoe, A. (1999) p. 200

2 Rao, P.C et al (2011)
3 Sinha, S.N.P and Mishra, Dr. P.N, 2004
4 Constitution of Kenya 2010, Article 159 (2) (c), Government Printer, Nairobi
5 K. Muigua, “Settling Disputes Through Arbitration in Kenya,” 4th Edition March, 2022, pp 3- 8
6 Sakate, P., & Dhawale, A. W. (2017). Analysis of Claims and Dispute in Construction Industry. International Journal of Engineering Sciences & Research Technology, 6(5), 523-535.
doi:10.5281/zenodo.400838
7 10.1061/(ASCE)LA.1943-4170.0000111. © 2013 American Society of Civil 12 Engineers.
8 Makarem et al. 2012.

34 Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

satisfactory to upset the balancing pendulum9 and the whole xi. Ripple effect
development, programming enhances targeted schedule of
xii. Currency fluctuation effect
completion of work.
xiii. Ambiguity and errors in contract documents, specifications
This paper. and drawings

The dynamic and the high level of sensitivity of the parameters If these conflicts are not clearly managed, Claims are made
in the industry therefore necessitated an adequate research by contractor and further if claims did not get clearly resolved
before drafting of the contracts are done. Parameters such disputes arises.
as cost and time are always major resources in a project and
any external or internal exigencies that are likely to affect the
environment in which these two operates in cannot be taken
ADR mechanism in Engineering
lightly. This piece gives a wide approach to the built environment Contracts
practitioners information on potential disputes areas in the
industry and further information on how, should be dispute arise
it can be resolved. The paper exploits the importance of proper
drafting of the dispute clause and it gives the appropriate dispute
F or the parties to effectively deal with or control claims
and disputes, the concern parties must establish a good
claim management procedure within the institution.12 Given
resolution mechanism for the construction claims. It concludes the uncertainty and ambiguity surrounding the construction
by analyzing the opportunities and challenges faced by the projects and the financial obligations involved it is only fair and
Engineers and if the Arbitral institution, in the country are well have any disagreement between the parties being resolved
placed to assist the built environment practitioners to handle promptly. Should dispute arise, a part from the normal legal
the problems associated with the disputes in the industry. processes, alternative dispute resolutions mechanisms are
available in construction contracts. Such mechanisms include
Causes of disputes in projects. negotiations, mediation/conciliations, adjudication, mini-trial
and Arbitration.

When two or more parties failed to have a meeting of mind

Many parties to contract shall prefer ADR mechanism over
or each maintain a hard stand of opinion about certainty of a
litigation because of the advantages it presents to their
question then dispute is said to have occurred. 10 Construction
commercial engagement. The reasons why people may ought
contracts are contracts made between the project owner (the
for alternative mechanism include but not limited to; greater
Employer) and the construction enterprise (the contractor).
satisfaction of the outcome of the process, flexibility and
It defines the order and the procedure to accomplish specific
confidentiality of the settlement processes and procedure. Low
task or installation and further defines the rights and obligation
cost since the party are not necessary to be represented by a
of both parties.11 The parties themselves are not competitors
legal expert13 that are likely to increase the cost. The speed at
and in most cases may not have any competing interest but
which disputants are able to resolve their differences are higher
are associates, with different functions to accomplish a certain
than the time taken in litigation. The proponents of ADR argue that
function. Most of the disputes arises during the occurrence of
processes such as mediation can maintain existing business
the contract but unfortunately, they are usually unforeseen
relationships as the parties are aided towards a settlement.
at the time the parties are entering into contract. Most of the
contractual problems arise from lacunae in and misinterpretation
of the clauses pertaining to the following: Negotiation
i.
ii.
Changes in Contract work,
Differing in unusual site conditions actually encountered T his is a process of working out the difference by direct
communication. The process is voluntary and non-binding.
It can either be bilateral or multilateral especially being that in
iii. Suspension of Work most case construction matters involved a number of parties
iv. Variation in quantities performing different roles to accomplish the project. The use
of external form can only be recommended if necessary but
v. Damage due to natural disasters and force-majeure then the process shall be termed as supported negotiation.
vi. Re-inspection and acceptance The discussions are usually held in a cordial and a peaceful
environment. The process aimed at a win-win situation and it
vii. Termination for the convenience of the client is at this stage that the parties brings out the main issues in
viii. Possession prior to completion contention and agree to agree or to disagree14.

ix. Escalation of price due to inflation

x. Acceleration of work progress
9 Rauzana A., (2016)
10 Karape. A. M. and Joshi A. M. “Dispute Resolution in Construction Industry” IJSTE - International Journal of Science Technology & Engineering | Volume 5 | Issue 6 | December 2018.
11 Mohd et al 2012.
12 Supra note 6
13 Sec 25(5) Arbitration Act No 4, 1995
14 K. Muigua, “Settling Disputes Through Arbitration in Kenya,” 4th Edition 2022, p 20-21

Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

35
 Mediation and conciliation jurisdiction and for all construction contracts and even when the
contract itself is not in writing.23

T his is like a continuation of the negotiation, being assisted

by a third party.15 These are essentially informal processes
whereby the parties are assisted by one or more neutrals in
Mini trial

I
their efforts to reach a settlement. The mediator tries to advise n this process the dispute is presented to the senior executives
or consult impartially with the parties with the main objective of either by a legal expert or any other informed person for the
bringing a mutually agreeable solution16. The mediator has no purpose resolution of the matter at hand. In construction project
power to impose an outcome upon the parties like the judge17. parties hold management meetings or management tender
The process is informal and non-binding however when the committee to unlock a stale mate between the contracting
settlement is reached and is signed by the parties it become parties. After hearing presentations from both sides, the panel
binding. The only difference between the mediator and the asks clarifying questions and then the facilitator assists the
conciliator is that the Conciliator makes a recommendation or senior party representatives in their attempt to negotiate a
proposes for a solution pertaining to the dispute.18 A mediation settlement.24
procedure is steered by the parties and the settlement is
voluntarily reached. It is likely that an agreement constructed
by the parties themselves in which they have been given Arbitration.
the flexibility to defend all their interests, will be perceived as
fair. Thus, a voluntarily reached agreement is more likely to
be honoured than one imposed by an investment tribunal.19
Therefore, mediation provides for the opportunity to conduct
T raditionally, Arbitration is a process where a neutral party (in
the context the person(s) is not a party to the contract) is
appointed as arbitrator and controls the outcome of the process25.
creative and unique resolutions of the disputes in which the Arbitration process is mostly regulated by legal authority. Final
interests of parties are adequately considered.20 decision is imposed on the contending parties which is called
an ‘award’, based on the merits of the case, and such award
Dispute Review, Avoidance or usually is binding and not appealable except under certain
circumstance depending with the jurisdiction and the seat26.
Dispute Adjudication Boards. Arbitration is perhaps the most commonly used mechanism
for settlement of technical disputes in a construction project

T his may be a combination of dispute avoidance, conciliation, and has proved very effective in the western world27. It is a
neutral evaluation and adjudication, as described here, quasi-judicial process to the extent that legal protocol is largely
but with the involvement of a project panel. The panel in most observed, and it is important that the arbitrator, who basically
cases are appointed at the beginning of the project and visit acts as a judge, understands legal procedures28.
site and hold discussions to seek to resolve disputes and give a
decision. The main question is whether the decision of the board
is binding, conditionally binding or temporarily binding. The cost
Effective dispute settlement clause
of providing for and maintaining the board can often be a factor
in deciding whether to have a board and this method is usually
chosen for larger projects. I t is important for a contract to contain a language and means
of addressing disputes and claims at the relevant stage in a
project. The expression must be explicit with clear instruction for
parties to resolve disputes as they arise. The first and fore most
Adjudication important thing for the parties to have control on the process of
how their disputes are going to be settled is the drafting of the

T his is a process whereby an impartial, third party neutral dispute resolution clause. In drafting the clause, there are a few
makes a fair decision, rapidly at a low cost on a construction mandatory requirements that must be met, and a few provisions
dispute,21 that is binding unless and until reversed in arbitration that must be included. These provisions should be clear and
or litigation. The use of an adjudicator has been entrenched in unequivocal. 29 In addition to these provisions, however, a
many standard construction documents. Adjudication take clause may be ornamented in virtually endless combinations
different forms; Construction adjudication a mandatory or with a cornucopia of provisions covering topics as important as
statutory construction dispute resolution mechanism22 in other the situs/seat of the arbitration and as esoteric as class action
arbitrations. A word of caution is in order. There is no such thing

15 Ibid, p 22-24
16 Supra, note 10 p 2
17 S.2, Civil Procedure Act, Cap 21, Laws of Kenya (Government Printer, Nairobi, 2010); Mediation Rules, 2015, Legal Notice No. 197 of 2015, Kenya Gazette Supplement No. 170, 9th
October, 2015, pp. 1283-1291.
18 Karape. A. M. and Joshi A. M. “Dispute Resolution in Construction Industry” IJSTE - International Journal of Science Technology & Engineering | Volume 5 | Issue 6 | December 2018.
19 Anoosha 2009, p. 30
20 Rhoades et al 2007, p. 407.
21 Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, The CIArb (K) Adjudication Rules, Rule 2.1
22 Housing Grants Construction and Regeneration Act 1996 and Statutory Scheme for Construction Contracts Regulations 1998
23 S139 Local Democracy, Economic Development and Construction Act 2009 repealing s107 HGCRA 1996
24 Lowe, D. & Leiringer, R., Commercial Management of Projects: Defining the Discipline, op cit., p.239
25 Fiadjoe, A (2004). P. 203
26 Ibid p. 286
27 Li D., et al 2018 p. 5
28 Sameer SK et al. (2016)
29 Stephen B., How to Draft an Arbitration Clause (Revisited), 1 ICC Int’l Ct. Arb. Bull. 14 (Dec. 1990)

36 Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

as a single “model”, “miracle” or “all purpose” clause appropriate and little influence of the Engineers has been felt. Whether a
for all occasions.30 contract dispute with a member of the construction team or the
contracting parties among themselves or a liability suit from
In Kenya, the formal requirements of an arbitration agreement a third party, the engineer today has all the reasons to fear
are outlined in Section 4 of the Arbitration Act. The Act provides litigation from all fronts. Everyone associated with construction
that an arbitration agreement may be in the form of an arbitration industry is probably familiar with construction liability horror
clause in a contract or in the form of a separate agreement. An stories. 35
arbitration agreement must be in writing. It is in writing if it is
contained in a document signed by the parties; an exchange of The Fédération Internationale des Ingénieurs-Conseils (FIDIC)
letters, telex, telegram, facsimile, electronic mail or other means for the “Conditions of Contract for Works of Civil Engineering
of telecommunications which provide a record of the agreement Construction” (often known as the “Red Book”), a standard
or an exchange of statements of claim and defence in which contract document widely used in international construction and
the existence of an agreement is alleged by one party and not civil engineering projects and is based on the English Institution
denied by the other party.31 of Civil Engineers (ICE) Standard Contract. The FIDIC contract
involves three parties: the owner or employer, the contractor,
Pathological clauses in the Arbitration are those clauses that and the engineer. The latter is firm of consultants or engineers
are sick or ill or defective in there very nature. The degree of engaged by the owner under a separate contract to assist the
sickness may vary in the nature of; naming a specific person in owner and to act on its behalf during the project implementation
the contract as an arbitrator and by the time the dispute occurs phase. 36
the person is deceased or rejects the nomination, naming an
institution that is nonexistence for an appointment 32 among The role of the Engineer in the implementation of the contract
many others. is placed in a sharp focus in the whole spectrum of the project
from the initiation to the closure.37 In case of a dispute the
Some other mistakes mistakes or illnesses that arise in drafting Engineer decides then inform the parties before the next level
arbitration clause include but are not limited to: failure to specify of resolution process is evoked.38 Disputes arising from FIDIC
whether arbitration outcome will be binding or non-binding; contracts, there is thus a compulsory pre-arbitral stage, which
failure to design a clause that fits the circumstances of the takes place after the Engineer. However, in addition to the fact
transaction and the needs of the parties; a clause that expresses that it is appointed and remunerated exclusively by the owner,
an agreement to arbitrate, but fails to provide guidance on how to the engineer itself is often at the heart of the dispute.
or where to do so; drafting a clause that is excessively detailed;
an arbitration clause with unrealistic expectations; and a clause The Engineer’s intervention can hardly be described as arbitration
that incorporates litigation or court procedural rules. If possible, or even quasi arbitration. The engineer is not required to follow a
it is appropriate to state the number of the arbitrator involve, the pre-determined procedure before reaching a decision, and any
seat of arbitration and the appointing authority should parties decision is provisional. Although the engineer’s decision must
fail to agree.33 Ambiguous or defective arbitration agreements be carried out immediately in order to ensure continuation of the
can lead to lengthy litigation challenging jurisdiction both at the works, it will only become final if it remains unchallenged or if it
outset and when enforcement of the award is sought. is upheld by an arbitral award.

There is need to ensure that the foregoing mistakes are avoided The Engineer can be appointed as an expert by the Tribunal
because, as it has been contended, the most important clause or by the parties to give evidence on the areas they are well
in any contract is the dispute resolution clause for so many knowledgeable in. The role of the expert is then to give an
reasons, not the least of which is that the way contracting parties opinion to enlighten the court or the Tribunal of specific technical
manage any dispute, disagreement or controversy that arises in issues, however the expert opinion binds neither the party nor
the course of implementing the contractual agreement, would the court.39
invariably determine their future commercial relationship.34
The Engineer that by the very nature is involved in the contractual
The Role Engineers in dispute process is considered as advisors and expert witness within the
industry. It then means that the Engineer plays a very key role
resolution in dispute avoidance and the resolution process. Engineer holds
key project implementation records and information that can

A lot of research has been done on the proliferation of the

lawyers and court indulgence in the construction matter
drastically reduce the time spend in locating the same and build
up claims against the opponent.

30 Ibid
31 Sec. 4 (3) of the Arbitration Act, No 4 1995
32 Ngotho P, 2016, Contemporary Issues in arbitration, p 210-2025
33 “Drafting an Arbitration Agreement in 2022;2021 Considerations’ p. 1. Available at https://www.ciarb.org/media/22281/barakat-nylj-series.pdf [Accessed on 11/09/2023]
34 Funmi, R., ‘Drafting the Dispute Resolution Clause: The Midnight Clause,’ p.1. Available at http://www.nigerianlawguru.com/articles/arbitration/DRAFTING%20THE%20DIS-
PUTE%20RESOLUTION%20CLAUSE.pdf [Accessed on 11/09/2023]
35 Rubino J. 1989, Dispute Resolution in Construction.
36 FIDIC Conditions of Contract, the Red book/Yellow Book
37 Ibid
38 Clause 20, FIDIC Condition of the Contract Red/Yellow book
39 Supra note 27

Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

37
 As an advisor having or being in possession of the factual other party costs.42 Therefore the most significant way costs
evidence of the project, understands the technical issues in can be reduced is by encouraging greater efficiency in the
aspect of the strength and weaknesses of the case and as a disposal of disputes 43 where the Engineer is at the very heart.
result is in a possible to prose a better mitigation measures very
important in the promotion of quick settlement.40 Party representation and claim preparation for the party left to
the technical people will drastically reduce the cost and time
The role or Arbitral institutions in in the settlement process. There is no requirement in law that
the plaintiff or the defendant must be represented by a legal
promoting ADR for Engineers expert but the law allow the party to be represented either by
themselves or any other person of their choice.44

A rbitral institutions are organisations managing arbitral

procedures. Their role is to facilitate the dispute resolution
for the parties, by offering a set of procedural rules to guide the
It can generally be appreciated that ADR mechanisms are highly
efficacious means of achieving satisfactory resolution of many
arbitration process. The procedural rules set out by the arbitral disputes in the construction industry, however their benefits
institutions guide, among other things, have not been appreciated by the built environment experts
including the general public.
a) the commencement of an arbitration;
b) the elements to be contained in a request for arbitration or As much as the mechanisms are not universal panaceas of
in a statement of claim; solution the processes can be expensive and could occasionally
fail, though their success rates are very high, ADR have
c) the elements to be contained in an answer to a request for greater significant role to play in the civil justice system and
arbitration, in a statement of defence, or in a counterclaim; decongestion of the national courts in the country.
d) the manner in which the arbitral Tribunal will be
constituted. The parties must know when to engage and when to disengage.
Mediation when started too early when the parties still do
e) time limits for the award to be rendered. not know enough about each other’s case may not reach a
settlement or is undertaken too late substantial cost and time
The functions undertaken by arbitral institutions are limited to shall have been incurred. To identify the appropriate time to
the procedural aspects of the arbitration. An arbitral institution engage is a matter upon which experienced practitioners should
will not decide on the merits of a dispute – this will be the role of advice by reference to the circumstances of the individual case.
the arbitrators. Furthermore, the arbitral institution has the duty
to oversee the proper conduct of the arbitration proceedings. There is a need for cultural and attituded change from the built
environment practitioners towards disputes in the industry.
Arbitral bodies then play a very important roles in weeding out Change of law and rules including sanctions and compulsions to
of pathological clauses in engineering contracts and help in the go the ADR way may not be the solution but the parties should
appointment and where possible in the administration of the be allowed to operate with the spirit they had at the time they are
dispute resolution process.41 drafting their contracts and should be based on the individual
case.
There is need for the institution to work together with other
international commercial courts to provide innovative and ADR campaigns is now an urgent issue and especially within the
improved dispute resolution mechanism adaptive to the need construction industry experts. The indulgence of the litigation
of the users. lawyers has made most technical people to shy away from the
profession but it in now high time Engineers, Quantity Surveyors,
Challenges and Opportunities Construction experts, the general public among others including
judges be sensitized on the benefits of ADR to both small,
medium and large businesses and project.
T here are numerous opportunities as well as challenges for
the built environment expert in the world of ADR. In most
Engineering contract many of the differences which arises
The information including legislation on ADR is very much
fragmented, the Arbitration Act 1995 is archaic and not in with
between the parties are of technical in nature and technical
the Kenya Constitution 2010. There is no law that governs
experts are better placed to offer solution:
Adjudication or Mediation procedures including other ADR
mechanisms in the country. The ADR practitioner are left,
A 2015 study by the International Chamber of Commerce (icc) therefore, for self-regulation.
Commission on Arbitration and Alternative Dispute Resolution
found that arbitrators’ fees and expenses accounted for only 15%
Our ADR institution have been over judicialized with high
of the costs of arbitration; administrative fees made up another
infiltration of the lawyer and legal expert. The Engineers
2%; while the remaining 83% was made up of lawyers’ fees and
40 Hussein F. H. (2020) The Engineer’s role in execution disputes of civil engineering contracting contracts – Palarch’s Journal of Archaeology of Egyptology 17(07), 1673-1691
41 Supra note 6 p. 5
42 icc, ‘icc
Commissions Report’ 2015, p3.
43 Menon S., 17 May 2018, para 21
44 Sec 25(5) Arbitration Act No 4 of 1995

38 Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

with knowledge in the matters of dispute are better placed Funmi, R., ‘Drafting the Dispute Resolution Clause: The Midnight Clause,’
to be parties representative and better dispute resolvers of p.1. Available at http://www.nigerianlawguru.com/articles/arbitration/
construction disputes. DRAFTING%20THE%20DISPUTE%20RESOLUTION%20CLAUSE.pdf [Accessed
on 11/09/2023]

Most arbitral institution are dependent on the funds from a strong Housing Grants Construction and Regeneration Act 1996 and Statutory
Scheme for Construction Contracts Regulations 1998.
market position to fulfill their mandate, construction industry
has been reported to be one of the biggest market shares in the Hussein F. H. (2020) The Engineer’s role in execution disputes of civil
disputes world and this places the construction expert at the engineering contracting contracts – Palarch’s Journal of Archaelogy of
competitive advantage. Egyptology 17(07), 1673-1691
ICC, ‘ICC Commissions Report: Decisions on Costs in International
Arbitration’ [2015] 2 ICC Dispute Resolution Bulletin 1 <www.iccwbo.
Conclusion be/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/20151201-Decisions-on-Costs-in-
International-Arbitration.pdf> accessed 13 September, 2023.

T he following conclusion can then be drawn from the

submissions without compromising their neutrality, arbitral
institutions need to work with governments, businesses,
K. Muigua, “Settling Disputes Through Arbitration in Kenya,” 4th Edition
2022, pp 3- 8
Karape. A. M. and Joshi A. M. “Dispute Resolution in Construction
lawyers, academia and other stakeholders to put in place legal Industry” IJSTE - International Journal of Science Technology &
frameworks that promote and shape economic and commercial Engineering | Volume 5 | Issue 6 | December 2018.
practice. This can be achieved though an active participation of Local Democracy, Economic Development and Construction Act 2009
the built environment experts. repealing s107 HGCRA 1996.
Lowe, D. & Leiringer, R., Commercial Management of Projects: Defining the
As much the global economic outlook may look bleak and dark Discipline, op cit., p.239
the Arbitral institutions and the ADR practitioners should put
their talents and skills to proper use to turn disputes into an Makarem, A., Abdul-Malak, M., and Srour, I. (2012). “Managing the
20761-period preceding the calling for DAB’s decision.” Proc., ASCE 762
opportunity for future new business and to spur economic Construction Research Congress, Reston, VA, 71–79.
growth.
Menon S, ‘The Special Role and Responsibility of Arbitral Institutions
in Charting the Future of International Arbitration’ (SIAC Congress 2018,
The main concern of the ADR users and especially arbitration are Singapore, 17 May 2018) <www.supremecourt.gov.sg/Data/Editor/
speed, cost and enforceability and the arbitral institution must Documents/SIAC%20Congress%202018%20Keynote%20Address%20
come up with innovative way to address them and improve of %20(Checked%20against%20delivery%20with%20footnotes%20-%20
the quality of arbitration and training of the ADR practitioners in 170518).pdf> accessed 13th September, 2023.
the industry. Mohd Suhaimi Mohd Danuri, Zahira Mohd Ishan, Nur Emma Mustaffa and
Mohd Salleh Jaafar, “ A revisit on the current practice of dispute resolution

References and ADR in the Malaysian construction industry”, Journal of Design and
Built Environment, Vol.10, 2012.
Ngotho P, 2016, Contemporary Issues in arbitration, p 210-2025.
Anita Rauzana, (2016) Causes of Conflicts and Disputes in Construction
Projects, available on IOSR Journal of Mechanical and Civil Engineering Rao, P.C & Sheffield, William; “Alternative Dispute Resolution- What it is
(IOSR-JMCE) e-ISSN: 2278-1684,p-ISSN: 2320-334X, Volume 13, Issue 5, and how it works?”; Universal Law Publishing Co. Pvt. Ltd. New Delhi-
PP 44-48 www.iosrjournals.org India; 1997 Edition, Reprint 2011.
Anoosha Boralessa, “Reconceptualizing the Mediation of Investor- State Rhoades, Rufus v., Kolkey, Daniel M., Chernick, Richard, The Practitioners
disputes”, Rutgers Conflict Journal, Vol. 7:1 (2009). handbook on International Arbitration and Mediation, New York: JurisNet
Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, The CIArb (K) Adjudication Rules, Rule (2007)
2.1 Rubino J. 1989, Dispute Resolution in Construction.
Civil Procedure Act, Cap 21, Laws of Kenya (Government Printer, Nairobi, Sakate, P., & Dhawale, A. W. (2017). Analysis of Claims and Dispute In
2010); Mediation (Pilot Project) Rules, 2015, Legal Notice No. 197 of Construction Industry. International Journal of Engineering Sciences &
2015, Kenya Gazette Supplement No. 170, 9th October, 2015, pp. 1283- Research Technology, 6(5), 523-535. doi:10.5281/zenodo.400838.
1291 (Government Printer, Nairobi, 2015).
Sameer Shaikh SK, Rajendra B. M. and Fauwaz P. (2016) Claims and
Constitution of Kenya 2010, Government Printer, Nairobi. Disputes in Construction Projects, published in International Journal for
Research in Applied Science & Engineering Technology (IJRASET) Volume
Dezhi Li, Huiyan Zhang, and Xuehua Fang, 2018, The deficiency of 4 Issue XI, p 251 – 257
dispute settlement mechanism seen in Chinese construction field from
FIDIC available on https://doi.org/10.1051/matecconf/201825105022 Sinha, S.N.P and Mishra, Dr. P.N.; “A Dire Need Of Alternative Dispute
Resolution System In A Developing Country Like India”; INDIAN BAR
Drafting an Arbitration Agreement in 2022;2021 Considerations, p. 1. REVIEW; Vol. XXXI (3&4) 2004
Available at https://www.ciarb.org/media/22281/barakat-nylj-series.pdf
[Accessed on 11/09/2023] Stephen B., How to Draft an Arbitration Clause (Revisited), 1 ICC Int’l Ct.
Arb. Bull. 14 (Dec. 1990).
Fiadjoe, A (2004), Alternative Dispute Resolution: A Developing World
Perspective, Great Britain: Cavendish Publishing Limited p. 203. The Arbitration Act No 4, 1995
Fiadjoe, A. (1999). Commonwealth Caribbean Public Law (2nd ed.). Great Woolf, Lord (1995) Access to justice: Interim Report to the Lord
Britain: Cavendish Publishing Limited. p.153. Chancellor on the civil justice system in England and Wales. P 4 para 2.
FIDIC Conditions of Contract, the Red book/Yellow Book

Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

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40 Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

Climate Change Against National Greenhouse Gas
Emission Reduction Commitment for Developing
Countries - Adaptation by Power Utilities
A case study for Kenya
Eng. Dr. Mutegi Mbae
Kenya Power, P.O. Box 30099-00100, Nairobi
[email protected]

Picture: Courtesy

1 Introduction 2 Methods
In Kenya, climate change action is guided by the climate change
Kenya’s ministry of energy and petroleum makes and articulates act 2016 which provides the framework for mainstreaming
energy policies to create an enabling environment for efficient climate change across all sectors of the economy. The law has
operation and growth of the sector. been applied to the development, management, implementation
and regulation of mechanism to enhance climate change
The energy and petroleum regulatory authority (EPRA) regulates resilience and low carbon development for sustainable
and licenses players in the entire energy sector. Its other development in the country.
functions include tariff setting and oversight, coordination of
the development of the integrated energy plan monitoring and The act obligates the cabinet secretary responsible for climate
enforcement of sector regulations e.g. the energy management change affairs to formulate a five-year national climate change
action plan (NCCAP) that addresses all sectors of the economy.
regulations.
The plan covers thematic areas of agriculture, forestry, industry,
Kenya’s energy act 2019 sets up other agencies, namely: energy, transport and waste. The first NCCAP ran from 2013-
2017 and the second from 2018-2022.
• Nuclear power and energy agency (NUPEA) to handle Table 1 below shows Kenya’s emission reduction potential and
nuclear energy programme. the nationally determined contribution (NDC) targets by sectors
(in MtCO2e per year) projected to 2030:
• Rural electrification and renewable energy (REREC) to
manage the rural electrification projects. Table 1: Kenya’s emission reduction potential and the NDC
targets by sector (in MtCO2e per year [3])
• Kenya electricity transmission company (KETRACO) to
manage the electricity transmission assets. GHG Emission reduction NDC
potential(MtCO2e) Target
Other key energy sector players are Kenya electricity generating
Sector 2015 2020 2025 2030 2030
company (KenGen) that generates the bulk of energy consumed
in Kenya and the Kenya power and lighting company (KPLC) that Forestry 2.71 16.24 29.76 40.2 20.1
does the power distribution and retail functions in the country. Electricity
0.28 2.24 8.61 18.63 9.32
generation
In 2020, the Ministry of Energy released the Kenya National Energy
Energy Efficiency and Conservation Strategy[4]. It establishes 2.74 5.16 7.92 12.17 6.09
demand
energy efficiency targets in the buildings, industry, agriculture, transport 1.54 3.52 5.13 6.92 3.46
transport, and power sectors to meet the goal of reducing the
Agriculture 0.63 2.57 4.41 5.53 2.77
national energy intensity by 2.8% per year. The strategy also
aims to ensure that energy efficiency measures contribute to Industrial
0.26 0.69 1.03 1.56 0.78
processes
the achievement of the nationally determined targets (NDC) by
keeping Green House Gas (GHG) emissions as per the targets in waste 0.05 0.33 0.5 0.78 0.39
table 1 below.

Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

41
 Table 2 below is a summary of the various energy mitigation 4.25m CFL bulbs distributed
actions for the electricity generation and demand sectors above: Reduce transmission
to 1.4m households by KPLC-
funded by MoE.
and distribution utility
Table 2: Estimated technical potential emission reduction by losses from 18% to 14%.
Energy management compliance
2030 [6-7] Distribute 3.3m CFL
certificates awarded to many
Improved energy bulbs to shave 50MW
factories under the energy man-
efficiency and energy from the peak demand.
agement regulations 2012.
conservation
MtCO2e Energy efficiency in
The Ministry of Energy has
worked with the Kenya Associ-
Clean coal 1 buildings and industry
ation of Manufacturers (KAM)
– EPRA regulations.
landfill gas generation 0.4 to establish a Centre for Energy
Efficiency and Conservation that
Solar-grid connected 0.65 promotes energy efficiency.
Electricity Generation
Hydro 1.1 20.47% (22,500 poles) now
concrete.
wind 1.7
Kengen has done a feasibility
Geothermal 14 study on how to optimize hydro
Concrete poles to
power plants by increasing dam
Solar thermal water heating 0.2 replace wooden poles.
Climate proof energy storage eg Masinga wall has
Energy efficient light bulbs 1.1 infrastructure been raised by 1.5m- because of
Optimize existing hydro
erratic rain patterns.
LPG stove substitution 1.4 plants.
In other instances, the number
Energy demand of turbines is increased to allow
Renewable lamps 1.8 excess spill to generate power-
Cogeneration in agriculture 1.75 Kindaruma added the third
turbine.
Improved cook stoves 5.7 Research on new
Total 30.8 technologies to reduce Renewable energies research
GHG emissions. laboratory established.
Enabling actions
The 2018-2022 NCCAP encompasses development of new (technology) Climate change resilient Energy efficiency research and
2,405MW of grid-connected renewable power generation technologies such as testing facility established at
coolers and scrubbers KIRDI.
and retirement of three thermal plant. The highest mitigation promoted.
opportunity is in geothermal expansion, envisaged to add
Training and public
2,775MW to the grid by 2030. awareness on climate
change adaptation and TVET Instructors trained on
Others targeted measures are: 157MW of Biomass and 30MW mitigation mechanism. solar PV and solar water heating
installations.
of distributed solar/mini grids –largely done by REREC in the Enabling Train 100 students
counties of Wajir, Mandera, Marsabit, Turkana and Garissa. actions(capacity per year at the KPI Marsabit county trained staff on
development) on renewable energy solar installations.
technologies.
3 Results KPLC trained 163 students on
Train 60 participants at solar installation.
Table 3 below shows the various interventions and the achieved the UNU Geothermal’s
training program.
results.

Table 3: 2018-2022 NCCAP Energy mitigation actions [5-6] Currently 78% (2,266MW) of generation capacity in Kenya is
renewable as seen in table 4 below:
Expected results by Results achieved by June
Actions Table 4: Kenya’s installed generation capacity [8]
June 2023 2022
2,883MW of generation on
Develop 2,405MW of renewables.
Installed(MW) Effective/Contracted(MW)
new renewables that 913MW geothermal plants in
include geothermal, Olkaria and Menengai Hydro 838.51 810
biomass, hydro, 300MW lake Turkana wind among
distributed solar and others in Ngong, Meru and Kipeto Geothermal 904.98 817
Increased generation
mini-grids, solar and 442MW solar in Strathmore,
of renewable energy.
wind. Makindu among others Thermal (MSD) 621.89 589
Retire 300MW of ther- 10% of TVET institutions using
mal plants – 120MW solar and five solar mini-grids Thermal ( GT) 60.00 56
Kipevu, 108MW Iberafri- done- 4 in Marsabit and 1 in
ca and 74MW Tsavo. Kisumu.
Tsavo power has been retired Wind 436.05 426
Increase captive
Biomass 2.00 2
renewable energy
generation capacity Meru county has 200 solar-
by 250MW by 2022 – powered boreholes under their Solar 212.51 212
50MW of solar, wind and captive energy goals.
Increased generation
hydro and 200MW of 153MW Kwale sugar biomass Imports 200.00 0
capacity for captive
cogeneration. plant done
renewable energy
Direct use of geo- 93MW KTDA generation done Total Capacity MW 3,276 2,911
thermal resources GDC has established geothermal
to power industrial heated milk pasteurizers.
applications-Naivasha
industrial park. The country has a peak demand of 2,149MW with 80.1% of the
population having access to electric power.

42 Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

The graphical illustrations below show the above trends: 5 Conclusion
Kenya is a leader in the generation and utilization of clean
energy in Africa [10]. Kenya is number one in the generation
of geothermal energy in the continent. The place of the energy
sector is well cut out in the 2023-2027 NCCAP and beyond as
Kenya seeks to leverage on the above gains and more. The
future is bright.

References

[1] Republic of Kenya. (2016).Climate change act number 11 of

Figure 1: Changes in various sources of energy from January 2016, National Council for law reporting, Kenya.
2016 to January 2023 [8]
[2] Republic of Kenya. (2019). The energy act number 1 of 2019,
National Council for law reporting, Kenya[3] Republic of Kenya.
4 Discussion (2016). Kenya National adaptation plan: 2015-2030, Ministry
Kenya uses 231/838MW (28% of the total installed capacity, of environment and forestry, Kenya.[4] Republic of Kenya.
largely to meet peak load demand as compared to the (2020). Kenya national energy efficiency and conservation
convectional base load) of hydro capacity – due to persistent strategy, Ministry of Energy and Petroleum, Kenya.[5] Republic
drought for three years in a row. of Kenya. (2021). National climate change action plan: Second
implementation status report for the fy 2019/2020, Ministry of
environment and forestry, Kenya.
Wind power has cut by more than half the gap between it and
hydro- now doing 17.8% of the total load against hydro’s 14.47%.
[6] Republic of Kenya. (2018). National climate change action
Solar energy has a big room for growth- now at 3.11% of the total plan (Kenya): 2018-2022. Vol.3: Mitigation technical analysis
national load. report, Ministry of environment and forestry, Kenya.

Geothermal still takes the lion’s share at 44.07% of the total load. [7] International climate initiative. (2019).Climate change and
sustainable development in the Kenyan electricity sector.
Kenya is on the road to retire all 300MW thermal power plants.
Tsavo power 75MW plant already retired, 120MW Kipevu and [8] Kenya Power & Lighting Co. Plc. (2023). National Control
108MW Iberafrica pending- Currently contributing 12.72% of the Center Data, 2016-2023.
total grid energy.
[9] Energy and Petroleum Regularoty Authority. (2023). Retail
The draft net metering regulations 2022 are under discussion. electricity tariff review for the 2022/23-2025/36 4th tariff control
These will go a long way in the contribution of the energy sector period (TCP).
towards reduction of the targeted GHG emissions.
[10] Mo Ibrahim Foundation. (2022). The road to COP27: Making
The electric mobility and time of use tariffs were introduced in Africa’s case in the global climate debate.
April 2023. These will spur more utilization of the generated
clean energy. As at the end of 2022, Kenya had well over 400
registered electric vehicles in the country.

Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

43
 PICTORIAL

President of IEK, Eng. Shammah Kiteme, engages with Graduate Engineers at Daystar University on July 1, 2024, addressing
critical career and professional development issues.

Graduate Engineers actively engage with IEK President, Eng. Shammah Kiteme, at Daystar University during the Graduate Engineers
Forum on July 1, 2024.

The IEK President and the Women Engineers Committee during a mentorship session at Limuru Girls High School and Alliance Boys
High School.

44 Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

Comparative Tariff Assessment: Grid vs.
Self-Generated Electricity in Kenya
George Kimutai Komen1
1
University of Nairobi, 30197-00100, Nairobi, Kenya
Email: [email protected]

Picture: Courtesy

1 Introduction 2 Methods and Tools

M odern distributed technologies including flexible demand,

distributed generation, energy storage, and improved power
electronics are driving a huge revolution in the energy sector.
The data collection process involved both primary and
secondary sources capturing electricity generated, installed
capacity, consumption rate, and reasons for opting for self-
This shift is taking place in tandem with broader changes in generation. The primary data collection process was broken into
power systems, such as a rise in the use of renewable energy three phases. Phase I involves collecting information on energy
sources, a closer coupling of the grid, and initiatives to cut output from businesses that had self-generation systems giving
carbon emissions [1]. New possibilities for the supply and details on installed capacity, installation causes, and difficulties.
use of power are being produced by these advancements. The sampled self-generating systems had an installed capacity
Commercial organizations are increasingly implementing hybrid of more than 20 kW. Phase II gathered information from
energy systems, utilizing the grid at night and solar energy Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) vendors
during the day for a variety of uses. Due to the advancement to reduce biases by capturing their viewpoints on the energy
of renewable energy technology and the demand for reliable sector’s capacity, costs, trends, difficulties, and incentives.
and affordable electricity, this tendency has intensified [2]. In order to provide insights into the variables influencing self-
Consumers producing their own electricity is another new trend. generation and its effects on Kenya’s energy sector, Phase
Industrial clients are separating themselves from the grid and III involves acquiring secondary data from EPRA, describing
putting in place their own energy strategies, frequently using pricing, structural models, and changes in electricity sourcing
solar power. Many organizations and businesses have installed from the national grid. The information covers tariff techniques
solar PV systems to suit their electrical needs, including Unilever and structures from 2013 through 2022.
Tea Kenya, Strathmore University, Garden City Mall, Total Kenya,
Mombasa International Airport, and the International Centre of The least expensive method of producing one’s own electricity
Insect Physiology and Ecology (ICIPE). was determined using the LCoE methodology. The cost that
results from comparing the lifetime cost of each organization
The price of renewable energy dramatically dropped to the discounted present value of the lifetime power produced
between 2009 and 2019. Costs for solar PV decreased by 89%, indicates the point at which defecting economically makes
from $378/MWh to $68/MWh, while those for onshore wind sense. Although the tool makes comparing the competitiveness
decreased by 41%, from $135/MWh to $41/MWh [3]. In contrast, of technologies simpler, it does not take into account all project
during this time coal and nuclear energy prices either rose or costs and financial factors. It ignores project hazards and
barely changed. Overall, technical improvements and the desire oversimplifies project risks and discounted rates. Furthermore,
for less expensive and more dependable electricity are driving a it ignores distributed system efficiency advancements, which
change in the energy sector toward cleaner and more affordable results in much higher LCOE, especially for small, efficient loads.
energy sources. The tool has limits in evaluating actual financial decisions, so it
should be used cautiously (Hansen, 2019).
With consumers increasingly shifting to renewable energy
technologies (RE), which are less expensive and more
dependable, the traditional electricity market structures are
being challenged [4]. Although RE may have advantages,
its high start-up expenditures, ongoing maintenance, and
operational costs cast doubt on the viability of self-generation as
an alternative to the grid [5]. Consumers may now regulate their
energy output and consumption thanks to advancements in RE
and energy storage technologies, but it is still unclear what this
means for utilities, customers, and legislators. Understanding
this new paradigm’s effects on the power industry and using
that knowledge to inform decisions requires research. Arguably,
it is important to look into and have a better understanding of
the overall notion of self-generation and grid defection given the
perception of the trend as a disruptor in the energy sector.

Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

45
 Figure 1: LCoE Concept Solar PVs 410 kW 40 2500 0.5
I Diesel
2.5 MVA 30 300 1.4
Generators
Solar PVs 290 kW 30 2500 0.4
J Diesel
500 kVA 5 200 1.1
Generators
K Solar PVs 670 kW 70 3000 0.9

Levelised Cost of Electricity

Where:
The survey discovered that the majority of solar PV systems
ran for between 2,500 and 3,000 hours annually, while
LCoE: Levelised Cost of Electricity diesel generators were only used for between 200 and 500
hours. Operation and maintenance (O&M) costs for solar PV
It: Initial Capital Cost systems included replacement parts, maintenance, clearing,
Ot: Operation Cost, administration, annual inspection, and security, whereas diesel
Mt: Maintenance Cost, generators also had fuel costs in addition to other O&M costs.
Ft: Fuel Cost Based on theoretical data, solar PV systems were projected to
have a lifespan of 30 years [6], whilst diesel generators and
Et: Total sum of Energy produced over the lifecycle
natural gas turbines were assumed to have a lifespan of about 20
t: the plant/ system years. The discount rate taken was 7.5% and expected inflation
r: discount rate (r) accounting for depreciation in rate was 7%. The calculated LCoE of the systems is shown in the
value of costs and energy Table 2.

3 Results Table 2: Calculated LCoE for the Surveyed Consumers

Results
Life cycle
From primary data, 11 companies were sampled and data Energy Life cycle cost of
Consumer electricity LCoE (Ksh)
collected from them. Table 1 shows the energy source with source the system (Ksh)
produced (Ksh)
respective installed capacities, initial cost, operating hours,
Solar PVs 930,979,551 10,279,892.71 90.56
operating and maintenance costs (O&M) and electricity sources
that include solar PVs, diesel generators, natural gas turbines. A Diesel
433,631,018.70 9,534,232.50 45.48
Generators
Solar PVs 1,032,443,891 14,306,184.02 72.17
Table 1. System variables for the surveyed companies (1 USD =
B Diesel
Ksh 110 at the time of study) 26,837,098.88 677,989.87 39.58
Generator
Solar PVs 207,998,495.8 8,737,908.80 47.78
Initial Capital Annual O&M
Energy Installed Operating Diesel
Consumer (Ksh in (Ksh in C 101,227,653.70 2,118,718.33 23.80
Source Capacity hours
million) million) Generators
Solar PVs 1.2 MW 270 2500 1.66 Natural Gas 99,344,348.48 70,623.84 70.33
A Diesel Solar PVs 7,538,588 205,597.85 36.67
7.5 MVA 90 300 2.1
Generators
D Diesel
Solar PVs 1.67 MW 300 2500 0.3 5,179,089.26 338,994.93 15.28
Generators
B Diesel
400 kVA 5 400 0.7 E Solar PVs 81,553,815.48 1,970,312.77 41.39
Generator
Solar PV 930,535,887.90 25699731.77 36.21
Solar PVs 850 kW 60 3000 0.7
F Diesel
Diesel 250,479,589.50 10,983,435.84 22.81
C 2 MVA 20 250 1.5 Generators
Generators
Natural Gas 10kW 20 1500 1.1 Solar PVs 53,112,779 1,284,986.59 41.33

Solar PVs 20 kW 2.1 3000 0.1 G Diesel

55,557,502.94 1,271,231 43.70
D Generators
Diesel
160 kVA 0.8 500 0.3
Generators Solar PVs 174,072,850 5,756,739.92 30.24
E Solar PVs 230 kW 23 2500 0.8 H Diesel
101,227,653.70 1,589,038.75 63.70
Solar PV 2.5 MW 270 3000 0.56 Generators
F Diesel Solar PVs 138,778,551.50 3,512,296.68 39.51
4.32 MVA 50 600 3.2
Generators I Diesel
147,839,457 3,178,077.50 46.52
Solar PVs 150 kW 15 2500 0.5 Generators
G Diesel
1 MVA 10 300 1.8 Solar PVs 104,169,579.40 2,484,307.40 40.30
Generators
J Diesel
Solar PVs 560 kW 50 3000 0.8 28,720,404.06 423,743.67 67.78
Generators
H Diesel
1.5 MVA 20 250 1.5 K Solar PVs 242,948,131 6,887,528.11 35.27
Generators

46 Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

Grid Tariffs Charges In addition to these charges, consumers face several
additional fees, including fuel charges, foreign exchange
The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) in rate adjustment fluctuation adjustment (FERFA), inflation
Kenya has established tariffs and billing structures for various adjustment (INFA), security support facility (SSF), water levy
consumer groups over specific time periods. These consumer (WARMA), and various taxes and levies. These additional charges
groups, categorized as CI 1-5, primarily consist of commercial can constitute approximately 45% of the total cost of electricity,
and industrial consumers. The billing components include making grid electricity relatively expensive. Comparatively,
fixed charges, energy charges, off-peak charges, and demand Kenya Power benefits from economies of scale and density
charges [7]. Between 2013 and 2018, billing was based on in providing electricity. However, consumers generating their
fixed charges, demand charges, and consumed charges. Fixed own electricity do not incur these additional charges [10].
charges were imposed regardless of electricity usage. However, Nevertheless, self-generated electricity can have a higher LCoE
in 2018, the billing structure shifted to be based on consumed when compared to grid electricity.
energy, off-peak charges, and demand charges. For instance,
CI1 consumers had fixed charges of Ksh 2,000.00, which For certain consumer categories throughout particular time
later increased to Ksh 2,500.00 by 2018. CI4 consumers saw periods, EPRA in Kenya has defined tariffs and billing systems.
fixed charges replaced with higher consumed energy charges, Commercial and industrial consumers make up the majority of
starting at Ksh 7.30 and increasing to Ksh 7.80 by 2020. these CI 1–5 consumer groupings [7]. Fixed charges, energy
charges, off-peak costs, and demand charges are some of the
Grid Defection elements of the bill. Billing was based on fixed charges, demand
charges, and consumption charges between 2013 and 2018.
There were set fees regardless of how much electricity was
Many organizations opt for a hybrid strategy due to the high used. The pricing structure changed in 2018 to be based on
upfront costs of being completely off-grid, the costs of power energy usage, off-peak fees, and demand fees.
storage devices, and the need to save money on infrastructure.
Some companies also use feed-in tariffs and cheaper off-peak
prices to balance their electricity costs. Despite these changes, Customers also pay for fuel, FERFA, INFA, SSF, WARMA,
many users still use the grid for things like controlling supply and other taxes and levies in addition to these expenses.
and demand imbalances, controlling voltage and frequency, and Grid electricity is relatively expensive because of these extra
having the option to export excess electricity. Utility providers costs, which can account for up to 45% of the overall price of
have proposed solutions like raising fixed fees and demand- electricity. Kenya Power, in contrast, makes use of economies
based pricing in response to trends in customer desertion. of size and density while supplying electricity. However, these
extra costs are not incurred by consumers who generate their
own electricity. Compared to grid electricity, self-generated
electricity may have a higher LCoE [11]. However, economic
factors also play a role in the choice to keep grid connections.

5 Conclusions
The energy industry has changed significantly over the past ten
years as a result of a number of variables, including dispersed
generation, flexible demand, grid system liberalization,
environmental concerns, and the need for reliable, affordable
electricity. In order to solve challenges like power stability,
economic effectiveness, environmental sustainability, and
energy independence, commercial and industrial consumers in
Kenya are rapidly embracing self-generated electrical systems.
The study discovers, however, that the price of self-generated
power varies considerably, with solar PVs costing, on average,
Fig. 1. Reasons for having both grid and own generated Ksh 46.49/kWh and Gensets Ksh 40.96/kWh, frequently as
electricity a result of low capacity utilization. The price of grid power is
largely steady. Despite using self-generated electricity, users
still rely significantly on the grid because of blackouts and other
4 Discussion issues. For more consumers to choose self-generation, policy
implementation and utility provider support must be improved.
Hybrid systems in industrial setups with motors drives can The utilization factor should be increased, policy implementation
increase Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), has a detrimental should be improved, and more study should be done on hybrid
effect on the performance of self-generated electricity, integration systems and electrical reliability.
operational expenses, and equipment reliability [8]. Load
sensitivity, component integration, system upkeep, and
power quality are a few difficulties. Only a small percentage of 6 Acknowledgement
respondents, who largely used net metering and FIT pricing, had
agreements to deliver extra power to the grid and thought these The author expresses gratitude to Prof. Cyrus Wekesa for
agreements were favourable. Regulation-related problems, continuous support throughout the project. The unnamed
high rates, and lengthy negotiation processes are some of the participants and companies, as well as EPRA management, are
current impediments to self-generated power, although proper thanked for their valuable contributions and assistance in data
policy implementation might dramatically lower the LCoE [9]. collection, crucial for achieving the research objectives.

Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

47
 7 References
1. Rapier, R., 2020. Renewable Energy Growth Continues At A Blistering Pace. [online] Forbes. Available at: <https://www.forbes.
com/sites/rrapier/2020/08/02/renewable-energy-growth-continues-at-a-blistering-pace/?sh=694db9e576b6> [Accessed 26
July 2021].
2. IEA, 2021. Renewables are stronger than ever as they power through the pandemic - News - IEA. [online] IEA. Available at:
<https://www.iea.org/news/renewables-are-stronger-than-ever-as-they-power-through-the-pandemic> [Accessed 3 November
2021].
3. International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), 2016. End-of-life management: Solar Photovoltaic Panels. IRENA.
4. Wei, Y., Chung, K.H.K., Cheong, T.S. and Chui, D.K.H., 2020. The Evolution of Energy Market and Energy Usage: An Application of the
Distribution Dynamics Analysis. Frontiers in Energy Research, 8, p.122.
5. Steffen, B., Beuse, M., Tautorat, P. and Schmidt, T.S., 2020. Experience curves for operations and maintenance costs of renewable
energy technologies. Joule, 4(2), pp.359-375.
6. Benton, K., Yang, X. and Wang, Z., 2017. Life cycle energy assessment of a standby diesel generator set. Journal of Cleaner
Production, 149, pp.265-274.
7. EPRA (2021), The Energy (Solar Photovoltaic Systems) Regulations, 2019. EPRA
8. Aldersey-Williams, J. and Rubert, T., 2019. Levelised cost of energy–A theoretical justification and critical assessment. Energy
policy, 124, pp.169-179.
9. Lai, C.S., Jia, Y., Xu, Z., Lai, L.L., Li, X., Cao, J. and McCulloch, M.D., 2017. Levelized cost of electricity for photovoltaic/biogas power
plant hybrid system with electrical energy storage degradation costs. Energy conversion and management, 153, pp.34-47
10. Maende, S.O. and Alwanga, M.U., (2020). The Cost of Power Outages on Enterprise Performance in Kenya. International Journal of
Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), 4(3)
11. Njeru, G., Gathiaka, J. and Kimuyu, P., 2021. Explaining Electricity Tariffs in Kenya. International Journal of Business, Economics
and Management, 8(2), pp.119-133.

Picture: Courtesy

48 Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

 Independent Review of Engineering
Programs by Engineers Board of Kenya

Engineers Board led by the chairman, Eng. Erastus Mwongera during independent review
of engineering programs at Technical University of Kenya

The Engineers Board of Kenya during independent review

The Boards Courtesy visit to Dedan Kimathi University
of the engineering programmes at Egerton University

The Council of Engineering and principals during the review of

recognition standards and degree programmes
 Enhancing Kenya’s Food Security
by Leveraging on Excess Electricity
during off-Peak Hours
Eng. Festus Muema Wambua
Power System Control Engineer
Kenya Power and Lighting Company Limited
Email [email protected], [email protected]

1 Introduction 2 Agriculture Mechanization Strategy

Farming in Kenya has historically been dominated by small- Mechanization is an essential input in land productivity while
scale subsistence agriculture, with approximately 80% of reducing drudgery or monotony.[3]. Mechanization has also
farmers working on plots of less than 3 hectares. However, been used to add value to primary products, create employment
in recent decades there have been efforts to modernize and and income along the commodity value chain.[3] This enables
improve farming practices to increase crop yields and farmer the growth and efficiency in post-harvest handling, processing
incomes. Traditionally, Kenyan farmers have relied on rain- and marketing which translates to food security.[2]
fed agriculture with the use of hand tools like hoes for land
preparation and weeding. However, there have been initiatives Technology has led to tractors and other equipment to allow
to introduce mechanization through the use of tractors, planters fewer farmers to handle much larger fields.[28].
and harvesters. While mechanization can help increase
productivity, many small-scale farmers still cannot afford these
technologies. [1] Machines water entire fields well and keep crops
growing even when there is not enough rainfall. While some
crops still need to be picked by hand, others like wheat can
Overall, while there have been efforts to modernize be collected by machine.[4]. In the past unlike presently, an
farming practices in Kenya, many challenges remain that invasion of pests could spell doom for an entire crop, which
prevent the majority of small-scale farmers from adopting more often resulted in starvation. In addition, farmers are better off in
productive and sustainable agricultural methods. Kenya imports handling weeds thanks to modern chemical spreads by tractors.
a significant amount of food to meet local demand. Some of the These technologies lowers the price of food significantly.[4].
most commonly imported foods being: Maize, Wheat, Rice, Sugar
and Vegetable oils to supplement local production and meet
the country’s consumption needs. However, import costs have 3 Convectional Diesel Tractors Farming
been trending upwards in recent years due to several factors
impacting the cost of living for many Kenyan households. Tractors have come a long way from their early mechanical
versions to now being highly sophisticated machines equipped
with a range of advanced technologies.[5] These advancements
These imported foods help ensure food security and in technology have not only improved the efficiency of
availability in Kenya. However, the country ought to continue tractors but have also made them more user-friendly and
pursuing policies and strategies to promote local production environmentally friendly.[6] Precision farming involves using
of food and ultimately reduce reliance on food imports in the data and technology to optimize crop production and increase
future. Addressing issues related to access to technologies, efficiency. The integration of precision farming technologies
agricultural inputs and extension services will be critical for in tractors has allowed farmers to collect and analyze data on
Kenya to achieve agricultural transformation and improve the factors such as soil moisture, crop yield, and weather conditions
livelihoods of its growing population. Finding solutions to farm to make more informed decisions.[7]
problems and issues is a painstaking process which requires
acceptance of new body of knowledge that may disprove and
invalidate some long held theories and beliefs. Today’s Kenyan farmers have a wide array of options
when it comes to diesel tractors. These diesel engines offer
several advantages for agricultural use, including high torque
The use of irrigation is also limited in Kenya due to at low revolutions per minute (RPMs), long service life, and the
high costs, lack of infrastructure, unreliable and inadequate ability to run on biodiesel.[8] They can potentially operate up to
electricity supply. Only about 3% of cultivated land is irrigated 24 hours a day. However diesel fuel is expensive and they add to
despite the fact that rain-fed agriculture is vulnerable to climate the overall greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and noise pollution
variability. Although the government has promoted various while in use. [9]
irrigation schemes, many have faced challenges with poor
maintenance and high operating costs. Therefore the aim of
this paper is to analyze the available installed energy capacity The conventional tractor industry is dominated by
in Kenya and see whether it is enough and sufficient to drive a few key players, including John Deere, New Holland, Case
electric farm tractors with electric motors as drive units towards IH Industrial, and Kubota. These companies have established
sustainable agriculture for food security. themselves as leaders in the market through decades of
innovation, production, and marketing. One reason for their

50 Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

dominance is their ability to offer a wide range of products and [17] They have fewer moving parts, resulting in reduced
services to customers, ranging from 50-700 horsepower, with maintenance requirements and costs associated with engine oil
options for 2WD, 4WD, and track models.[10] changes, fuel filters, and exhaust systems.[6]

4 Electric Farm Tractors Global Industry Better still, electricity is generally cheaper than diesel
Overview or gasoline, leading to lower operating costs over time for same
agricultural output.[18] These cost-saving benefits will make
The electric farm tractor market is an emerging sector within battery electric tractors financially attractive to our farmers
the agricultural industry that focuses on the development seeking to optimize their operational expenses and achieve long-
and adoption of electric-powered tractors for various farming term financial sustainability. Moreover, governments worldwide,
operations. They are designed to replace conventional diesel Kenya included, are implementing policies to incentivize the
or gasoline-powered tractors, offering numerous advantages adoption of electric vehicles. This includes tax credits, grants,
such as reduced carbon emissions, lower operating costs, and subsidies, and favorable financing options, which make battery
quieter operation.[6] Electric tractors utilize electric motors
electric tractors more affordable to farmers.
and batteries to power their operations, eliminating the need
for fossil fuels. These tractors can be charged through various
methods, including grid electricity, renewable energy sources While it is still a small percentage of the total tractor
such as solar or wind power, or even portable generators. The market, the availability of electric farming tractors is growing
use of electric power in farming machinery aligns with the global rapidly as more farmers seek to reduce fuel costs, noise
trend toward food sustainability and reducing greenhouse gas pollution, carbon emissions and most importantly, increase
emissions.[11] food production. The capabilities of these electric models will
also likely improve over time as battery technology advances.
The world of farming is changing rapidly. One of the The determination that diesel tractors in any region consume far
most significant developments in electric tractor technology more MWh/year of energy and contribute more tons of carbon
has been the integration of precision farming technologies. dioxide energy per year (tCO2e/year) is already a big drawback.
Farmers around the world are increasingly turning to electric Indicatively, the figure 1 below shows a type made in China.[19]
tractors to farm their fields. The electric farm tractor market
The price of USD12896 is indicative of how the general prices of
is anticipated to expand as farmers recognize their long-
term benefits as they get governments continued support to different brands could be world over. So giving the prices a range
sustainable agricultural practices.[12] The growth of the market of between USD 10000 and 90000 would work well for farmers in
is expected to be influenced by factors such as advancements Kenya. That cost and reduced long term power usage incentives
in battery technology, charging infrastructure development, and will be far much less compared to same powerful diesel tractors.
the overall cost competitiveness.[13]. Battery technology is a
critical area of focus for electric farm tractors and any further
advances in battery chemistry, energy density, and durability
will result in improved performance and longer operating ranges.
[14]

Lithium-ion batteries are the type commonly used

due to their high energy density and efficiency.[6] However,
ongoing researches aim to develop next-generation battery
systems, such as solid-state batteries, which would offer even
higher energy storage capacity and improved safety.[14] These
advancements are crucial for addressing the range limitations of
electric tractors and reducing the time required for recharging.
[15] Therefore as a country, if these electric farm tractors can be
integrated with precision farming technologies, then agricultural Fig 1:100hp farming electric tractor with air-conditioned cab
practices such as planting, fertilizing, spraying, and harvesting Price =USD 12896
will be highly revolutionized. These technologies include GPS
guidance systems, sensors, and data analytics, enabling 6 Anticipated Source of Power For the
precise and targeted farming operations.[16] Electric Tractors
In order to leverage on this technology and achieve the desired
5 Determination of Choice among the Two results of lowering the cost of food production, then the cost of
Types of Tractors electricity for charging the batteries is of great consideration.
As of July, 2023, Kenya had an installed electricity generation
The price of diesel powered tractors in Kenya is in capacity of 3177Megawatts.[20]
the range of between Kshs.1.5M and Kshs.7M.[17] On the
other hand, the landing cost of electric tractors range between This country’s power supply relies heavily on
Kshs.3M and 15M for the most advanced.[6] Although they hydroelectricity, wind, Solar and fossil fuels. Hydropower
have a higher upfront purchase cost compared to conventional accounting for about 29% of that installed capacity with 839
tractors, battery electric farm tractors can provide long-term cost megawatts generated from various plants. Thermal power
savings due to their lower operating and maintenance expenses. accounts for about 18% of the installed capacity with 512.8

Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

51
 megawatts generated from various fossil fuel plants. The Fig2: Chart of July 7th 2023 load curve with different components
remaining 53% comes from geothermal energy, wind, and solar of generation mix.
sources. More so, the Country has a significant potential to
expand geothermal power generation due to its location along There are regulatory and operational barriers that limit the use
the Great Rift Valley. Currently, geothermal energy provides of rejected geothermal energy during off-peak periods when the
about 852 megawatts of installed capacity. [20] demand is low.[20] These barriers take the form of policies that
favor the use of more expensive energy sources over rejected
As a producer of power, Kenya has excess installed geothermal energy,[30] as well as regulatory frameworks that
generation capacity, especially during off-peak hours which do not adequately support the use of this cheaper energy.[23]
provides an opportunity to power these electric tractors and
other farm machinery across the Country. This paper explores Table 2 shows the amount of power (MW) curtailed/rejected and
how much excess power there is and how leveraging on the thus wasted in the month of July, 2023 with 7th of July venting
excess electricity at night, farmers would charge the batteries out 435.7MW of power to the atmosphere. For charging electric
and carry out pumped irrigation overnight at reduced off-peak tractors and other farm equipment, then that is the power to use.
rates. This would allow them to utilize the tractors during the day On average, assuming a single tractor of 200KW rating to charge
for plowing, planting, spraying and other tasks. Over time, the daily for 5hrs and do a 5 acre farming, then the total average
increased productivity from that mode of mechanized farming energy consumed would be 1000KWh units. Therefore for a fleet
techniques would then help improve the food security situation of 1000 tractors, the total energy consumption in a day would
in Kenya. The table 1 is a tabulation of the installed generation be 1000000KWh for 5000 acres. 10000 acres will take double
capacity in Kenya by type. (2000000KWh) the energy.

Therefore the value of 435MW on July 7th 2023

Effective*/ % %
Type Installed
Contracted (Effective) (Installed) for the 5 hour off-peak period, will translate to 5 hours times
Hydro 838.50 809.60 28.60% 26.39%
435MW giving 2175MWh or 2175000KWh of energy. The 1000
tractor fleet will leave a balance of 175000KWh of energy. That
Geothermal 940.00 851.70 30.09% 29.58%
balance can go toward the integral pumped irrigation. In a week
Thermal 512.80 506.40 17.89% 16.14%
of 6 working days, 60000 acres will be cultivated. Therefore if
Wind 435.50 425.50 15.03% 13.71% we have 1000 tractors bought with government support, in a
Biomass 2.00 2.00 0.07% 0.06% month of 24 working days, a total of 10000 acres by 24 equal
Solar 210.30 210.30 7.43% 6.62% to 240000 acres. At the end of it, what would have been rejected
Interconnected geothermal energy will find its use and thus enhances food
2,939.00 2,805.00 99.12% 92.50%
System security. These numbers mean food security in the long run for
Off grid thermal 35.57 23.03 0.81% 1.12% the Country.
Off-grid Solar 2.26 1.92 0.07% 0.07%
Off-grid Wind 0.55 0.00 0.00% 0.02% Table 2: Month of July Curtailed/Rejected energy
Imports 200.00 0.00 0.00% 6.29%
Total Capacity MW 3,177.00 2,830.00 100.0% 100.0%
Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun

7 Part of Geothermal Energy Rejected as 1061.67 2776.233

1 2

the Game Changer 808.233 1008.633 493.2 617.4667 435.6667 629.5 2080.5
3 4 5 6 7 8 9

1038.5 10
176.3333 11
402.5 12
611.8333 13
366 14
87 15
59 16

Out of the geothermal energy produced, not all is used during 525.033 17
540 18
102.1667 19
489.5 20
534.5 21
1032 22
2418.833 23

electrical load management. It is rejected and steam vented

1604.9 24
269.1667 25
558 26
548.9333 27
826.7333 28
483.83 29
1246.333 30
out.[20] One benefit of using the rejected Geothermal energy
is using energy that would otherwise be wasted and thus lead 628.1667 31
to a decrease in the overall demand for other energy sources,
which can have a negative impact on the environment and on So as it is now, unless unforeseeable circumstances arise, there
energy security.[21] By using rejected geothermal energy, it is enough and available energy for farmers to power their farming
is possible to reduce the amount of diesel energy that is used, equipment and drive sustainable agriculture to food security. The
which in turn reduce the amount of greenhouse gas emissions government of Kenya already has an electricity tariff that gives
to the atmosphere.[22] The following figure (see chart 2) is manufacturers power at discounted rates.[24] This Times of Use
a reflection of the area each component in our generation mix (ToU) tariff, which offers large power users a 50 per cent cut on
covers to meet the country-wide demand of power. their bills on meeting certain thresholds, is set by the Energy
and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA).[25] Under the
tariff announced in November 2017, industrial and commercial
power users pay half the rate when they use power during the
off-peak hours of between 10pm and 6am upon meeting certain
thresholds.[26] Many commercial and industrial customers are
already benefiting from the ToU tariff. Large power users metered
at between 450 volts and 11 kilovolts (kV) pay as low as Sh15
per unit of electricity consumed under the tariff.

With this kind of framework in place, then it is incumbent

of the Government to expand such plans to the agricultural

52 Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

sector to boost food production towards sustainability and 4. https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/other/agricultural/
self-reliance after subsidizing the importation of electric driven types.html
farm equipment. Dropping the tariffs even further, will spur the
purchase of more and more electric powered tractors among 5. https://www.globenewswire.com/en/news-
other equipment and negate the narrative that their prices are release/2023/06/16/
exorbitant and uneconomical. Pumped irrigation coupled with
6. https://www.globenewswire.com/news-
the technology of battery powered tractors will then drive the
release/2023/06/12/
Kenyan agriculture dominated economy to growth.
7. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/earth-and-
8 Conclusion planetary-sciences/precision-agriculture

The electric farm tractor market is no longer in its early stages 8. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/
but has experienced significant growth and technological 9. https://youmatter.world/en/diesel-or-petrol-what-pollutes-
advancements in recent years. The market is driven by increasing more/
environmental concerns, stricter emission regulations, and the
desire for sustainable farming practices. However, challenges 10. https://www.marketsandmarkets.com/ResearchInsight/
such as limited battery range, longer charging times, and higher agricultural-sprayers-market.asp
upfront costs compared to conventional tractors still need to be
addressed to accelerate adoption. Major agricultural machinery 11. https://bisresearch.com/industry-report/electric-farm-
manufacturers, as well as startups, are investing in research tractor-market.html
and development to bring more efficient and affordable electric
tractors to the market. 12. https://www.monarchtractor.com/news/what-is-ag-tech
13. https://www.bls.gov/opub/btn/volume-12/charging-into-
Rejected geothermal energy is therefore a valuable the-future-the-transition-to-electric-vehicles.htm
and often-overlooked source of clean and renewable energy.
It is and has the potential to make a significant contribution in 14. https://www.spglobal.com/esg/s1/topic/the-future-of-
food production. By capturing it, it is possible to increase food battery-technology
production through electric driven tractors. From the foregoing, it
can convincingly be used for modern irrigation farming instead 15. https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/
of reliance on unpredictable weather conditions. That will then
16. https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/12/8/1080
reduce greenhouse gas emissions. While there are challenges
in investing in these electric tractors, such as high upfront costs 17. https://www.googleadservices.com/pagead/
and technical difficulties, the potential benefits of using them
make it an important consideration in clean energy farming 18. https://www.ers.usda.gov/webdocs/publications/44894/
and food security future. As such, it is important to continue
exploring and imploring technologies and policies that support 19. Retrieved from https://www.alibaba.com/premium/electric_
the production and use of this rejected energy whose use will tractor_price/
increase food production and security in the country.
20. KPLC Daily Analysis Data Records

9 Acknowledgement 21. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/earth-and-

planetary-sciences/renewable-energy-source
Many thanks to my colleagues at Kenya Power and Lighting
Company Limited and my family for their generous, valuable 22. https://documents1.worldbank.org/curated/en/
support and words of encouragement during the period of 23. https://www.undp.org/sites/
writing this paper.
24. https://www.theafricareport.com/289898/
10 REFERENCES 25. https://www.standardmedia.co.ke/article/2001429947/
Retrieved from the following web sites and records: 26. https://www.standardmedia.co.ke/author/macharia-kamau
27. https://www.energy.gov/sites/prod/files/
1. https://www.greenlife.co.ke/expert-guide-to-maize-
farming-in-kenya 28. https://www.bayer.com/en/agriculture/article/technology-
agriculture-how-has-technology-changed-farming
2. https://www.kalro.org › amri
3. https://www.fao.org/sustainable-agricultural-
mechanization/

Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

53
 The Carbon Gap in Sustainable Housing and
Infrastructure Development, A Lifecycle Approach
for Climate Change and Adaptation in Developing
Countries
Eng Eric Wekesa Wanjala
Kenya Power and Lighting Co. Plc, P.O. Box 30099-00100 Nairobi, Kenya
Email: [email protected]

1 Introduction performance of buildings (Lemay, 2011, Bribián et al., 2009,

Junnila and Horvath, 2003, Junnila et al., 2006, Suzuki and Oka,
The world today is faced with troubling issues of rising 1998). Various construction activities lead to environmental
accumulation of greenhouse gases and consequent global pollution through land clearing, equipment’s engine emissions,
warming (Tathagat and Dod, 2015). According to the Paris demolition, burning, and use of dangerous chemicals, among
Agreement 2015, a target was established to reduce the global others according to (Adebowale Philips Akinyemi et al., 2017).
temperature rise at between 1.5ºC to 2ºC above pre-industrial Lack of accurate accounting and tracking emissions as
levels by 2030. According to the International Development identified in the gap further risks loss of credit opportunities
Infrastructure Commission Recommendation Report, 2020, an in carbon markets. Effective accounting of carbon emission
outlay estimated at US$ 90 trillion is required for infrastructure requires continual evaluation of variances during the entire PLC
development by developing and emerging countries for the comparing baseline estimates established at project initiation
period 2016-2030. Further, the United Nations (UN) conference (planning) versus actual levels measured during construction,
on trade and development estimated US$ 2.5 trillion to operation or use phase. Building construction accounts for an
address the investment gap in developing countries including estimate 40% of global energy-related emissions.
infrastructure needs annually to realize the global goals. Noting
that each infrastructure and building construction has a carbon The study used qualitative techniques and reviewed literature
footprint, higher carbon or greenhouse gas GHG emissions are associated with reduction of carbon or GHG emissions in
expected from developing countries. This applies if business as construction project with notable case study of buildings
usual situation is sustained in engineering developments. [2,3,4,5,6,8] and port construction [15]. The study
recommends use of project life cycle PLC approach with
Beside Kenya being a signatory and obligated to the Paris incorporation of life cycle assessment (LCA) [2,3,6,8,13]. PLC
Agreement 2015 and use of Kenya Carbon Emissions Reduction assures effective projections of carbon or GHG emissions for
Tool (KCERT 2050) to establish optimal energy pathway to realize project life cycle however LCA established embodied energy
reduction in GHG emissions by 32%, there exists a gap in carbon analysis and emissions for materials (with existing carbon
and GHG emission management i.e., tracking, measurement, values or coefficients) and components used at different
accounting and reporting at project or activity level in Kenya. The stages of project life cycle [1]. Study findings to improve policy
application of the KCERT2050 tool is only limited to modelling framework, adoption of carbon plans, and establish inventory
energy consumption and corresponding annual GHG or carbon for sustainable materials (carbon coefficients) etc. These will
emissions for policy considerations. The identified gap which improve carbon or GHG management through introduction
is lack of mechanism to project, measure, track and account for of carbon plans in project approval and funding as part of
carbon emissions in projects impacts sector level performance sustainability, accurate reporting on carbon or GHG emissions
and reporting on carbon or GHG emissions. The study focused and projections, increased opportunities in carbon markets
on construction sector where housing and infrastructure for infrastructure and housing projects by the Government of
constructions are highest. Buildings are responsible for 35% of Kenya, public and private sector players and non-governmental
global energy consumption and 38% of global energy-related institutions. Stakeholders in regulatory, standards and capacity
CO2 emissions (United Nation Environment Programme (UNEP), building notably the Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK),
2020). Kenya’s carbon or GHG emission data is primarily collected the Engineers Board of Kenya (EBK) and Environment Institute
from the operational or use phase of most projects implemented of Kenya (EIK), ministries and other agencies etc. will use the
across various sectors. This is inadequate as it lacks life cycle findings to advance low emission strategies and capacity at
carbon contribution. For green construction, project life cycle sector and institutional levels for engineering development and
PLC approach with life cycle assessment LCA is commended success of NDC targets.
for wholistic determination of carbon footprint (CF) [15]. The
deficiency of data on carbon estimates at project determinative 1.1 Carbon Quantifications
stages i.e., initiation, planning, design, approval, commissioning,
decommissioning and disposal impedes emission control
over the PLC [1,8]. The LCA is beneficial to decision-making Carbon footprint is a measure of the exclusive total amount
process in that it can be used to review sustainability initiatives of carbon dioxide emission that is directly and indirectly
throughout the entire life cycle of the infrastructure or building, caused by an activity or is accumulated over the life stages
including the design, detailing, delivery and disposal phases. of a product, including activities of individuals, populations,
A number of studies in North America, Europe and Japan used governments, companies, organizations, processes, industrial
sectors etc. (Wiedmann and Minx, 2008). Outstanding merit
LCA as a useful tool for determining the carbon footprint and
for CF calculation is that it is possible to adapt it to any project
embodied energy consumption in assessing the environmental

54 Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

[15]. All sectors should be obliged to perform CF calculations Dependent on the deliverables from initiation, planning and
for posterity more so construction sector whereby significant design stage [1]. Major risks occur that change project scope
impact on the environment due to large earth movements, at this stage notably force majeure, resource and finance
the treatment of compound materials, and land modification constraints, contractual and stakeholder conflicts etc [1].
is prevalent. Globally, 20% of carbon and GHG emissions are Key activities are supply of materials, construction methods,
generated by construction sector being the first in material(s) use of tools and labour, waste management and upkeep prior
consumption. LCA methodology allows calculation, evaluation, to handover. These influence emissions mainly choice of
and interpretation of the generated emissions during the materials and transportation. Cradle to gate, cradle to site and
lifetime of an infrastructure or building thereby showing the GHG cradle to handover processes apply in supply of materials for
produced during all the project phases [2,3,6,8,13] low emission objectives. Heavy equipment consume fossil-
derived oils hence higher footprint. Labour efficiency during
1.2 Project Life Cycle (PLC) for Carbon Reduction in construction activities determines carbon reduction as carbon
Construction Projects. is calculated on the activities of workers during the project.
Waste management and residual cleaning of buildings and
LCA allows the calculation, evaluation, and interpretation of maintenance of buildings is the ultimate activity of the project
the generated carbon emissions during the lifetime of an life cycle [1]. Direct carbon-based wastes originate from the
infrastructure, building thereby showing the GHG produced combustion process of material waste at the project site while
during all the project phases [2,3,6,8,13]. PLC acts to establish indirect waste come from the process of transporting solid waste
the start and end of a project [1]. The four stages in PLC are discharges to landfill sites. Research shows that construction
initiation or conceptualisation, planning or design, execution industry produces large amounts of waste and more than 50% of
or implementation, and termination or closure [1]. Green and the waste material is deposited in the final dump [1]. Nearly 26%
conventional projects are similar with one notable dissimilarity. of landfill sites are occupied by construction waste [1]. Quality
Green construction model focuses on sustainability and and control are key at this stage of construction. Deliverables
environment friendly requirements unlike conventional. PLC are project documentation i.e., reports comprising of change
requires low carbon emission or GHG strategies to be considered management, tests, inspections, risks and meetings.[1].
at the project initiation and concept stage [1]. These benefits
are transferred inter-stage to the end of the project [1]. Each 1.6 Project Handover / Closure / Operational / Maintenance
project stage in a green construction concept interrelates with
the next for transfer of green benefits or low carbon gains [1]. Final examination of works in respect to the contractual scope is
It is expected that an accumulated gain of green benefits is done upon completion of construction stage. Detailed checklists
realizable at the end of the PLC [1]. are used containing all items of work including pending item(s)
capture in defects liability period. Once all corrective actions are
1.3 The Initiation phase / Project Initiation effected, it is necessary to review all construction activities before
the work is declared complete and handover to owner. The final
At this stage conceptualization or concept development inspection should involve all key stakeholder representatives.
incorporates low carbon planning. This impacts the design The final deliverable is documentation comprising all control
concept and whole series of construction activities to the documents in the construction phase, final drawing (as built
project end of life [1]. The owner sets a green centric project drawing), and the operating manual and the handover report.
strategy leading to green designs, shapes, technology, and Green construction concept requires an evaluation of carbon
construction. Green model influences the process(s) hence and GHG emissions is performed to account for variances in
control project financing, team, cost, quality, and time [1]. The actual project emissions from projections at initiation.
people qualifications include training on sustainability and or
low emission. Stage deliverable(s) comprises documentation 1.7 Carbon Emission in Construction
on tasks, responsibilities, project details (name, budget,
appointments etc). Infrastructure and buildings constructions consume the largest
volumes of materials. This makes them lead in carbon emissions
1.4 The Design Phase / Project Planning due to high embodied energy in materials used. Embodied
Energy corresponds to the energy expended by all processes
The most significant stage of PLC that projects expected carbon associated with the production of building materials and their
or GHG emissions associated with the gradual implementation components. This includes mining, manufacturing materials
of a projects [1]. Green drawings, designs and building and equipment, assembly and transportation etc. Therefore,
specifications done for low carbon. Consultancy or expertise total contained energy during construction of infrastructure and
sourced for complex projects to avert risks of poor designs buildings is directly proportional to the level of complex material
causing changes in project scope, and strategy, repetitive used and process(s) involved. In typical construction(s) highest
work, delays in schedule, and cost swelling [1]. Green centric emissions of CO2 arise from the use of concrete, aluminium and
design comprises two main aspects: (1) Life Cycle Assessment steel. These have high contained energy levels. This imply the
(LCA) and (2) Eco-Conscious Design (ECD) [1]. LCA is key in contained energy is as an indicator of the overall environmental
determination of embodied carbon hence critical for material impact of building materials and systems. Carbon energy
selection [2,3,6,8,13]. Green centric planning stage assures is the energy spent during the construction process. It is
deliverables that transfer benefits to construction stage in form consequential energy from the manufacturing, distribution /
of project structure and team, detailed design drawing(s), task supply, transportation and equipment used during construction
scope(s), technical data, project schedules, work schedules, work. Generally, it comes from combustion (fossils), such as in
material / spending schedules, procedures, etc. factories and vehicles. Embodied carbon is calculated by KgCO2
/ Kg unit of material or based on its functional unit using kgCO2
1.5 The Construction Phase / Project Execution / m3 of material or kgCO2 / m2 of material, where each material
has different energy values.

Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

55
 2 Methodology Source: (Author,2023), NB: Range in years 2010 < > 2016

This study used qualitative methods Literature associated LCA concept evaluates the resources inputs, including energy,
with reduction of carbon emission Literature on select cases water and materials, and environmental loadings including
associated with low carbon emission strategies were reviewed CO2 emissions and wastes of a building during different
as follows building construction in Western Australia [4], Port phases of the life cycle. Equation
Construction [15], Industrial Park in China [7], storey building
Växjö, Sweden [8]. The study analysed and divulged findings I= (1), where I represent the life cycle environmental
and interpretations of previous research on reduction of carbon impact.
emissions. The study attempted to categorize the content of the
research into the project life cycle (PLC) scope. Grounded on this
opinion, the formulation of research problems associated with
carbon emission in relation to PLC drawn clearly.

The study adopted two steps to improve the quality

and reliability of the literature review sources (Alwan et al.,
2017). Firstly, using organized keywords in well-established
and high-quality scientific journals and repositories. Key words
were used to collect materials for the study. The study adopted
two steps to improve the quality and reliability of the literature
review sources (Alwan et al., 2017). Firstly, using organized
keywords to collect information in well-established and high-
quality scientific journals and repositories. Lastly the literature
review of carbon emission reduction strategies from industry, Source: data.worldbank.org
Governments and international agency reports, Internet and
media publications, etc. Further secondary data sources in the Figure 1: Growth in construction sector in Kenya period 1960 to
form of a literature review consisting of industry, Government 2022.
and international agencies reports, internet and media
publications, etc were used. Purposive sampling and descriptive It is deducible from figure 1 above that construction sector in
analysis methods used in data collection however analysis and Kenya had a growth rate of 17.7% in the year 2022. Construction
interpretation done by mapping each of the research topics industry in Kenya is expected to grow by 7.7% reaching KES
of the journal in tabular form. Table 1 below comprise results 973 billion-in 2023[11]. The construction output in the country
of research journal mapping on carbon emission reduction is projected at KES 1,279.1 billion by 2027[11].The industry is
strategy reviewed in PLC as below. expected to register annual average growth rate of 5.7% from
2023 to 2026, supported by investments in transport, electricity,
3 Results housing, and manufacturing [10] Additionally construction are
250,000 new affordable houses every year through PPPs, new
Table 1. Research On Carbon Emission Decrease Strategies ‘level six’ hospitals in six new sites, a 100,000km fiber optic
Reviewed in The Project Life Cycle (PLC). connectivity network, and building a 700km road along the
Kula, Isiolo, Mawe-Modogashe-Samatar-Wajir-Kutulo-El Wak-
Reference Year Location Type of Type of Param- Project Life Cycle – Case Study Ramu corridor, etc. [10]. All these constructions will increase the
Research Con- eter PLC carbon footprint if business as usual scenario persists
/ Analysis struc- Stud-
tion ied Init Design Const

Pomponi 2016 - LCA Building CO2 - - X Construction 4 Discussion

& Mon-
caster Table 1 above illustrates the literature-based review on carbon
Atmaca & 2015 Turkey LCA Building Energy - - X Building const, emission reduction relation to activity on the project life cycle
Atmaca (LCEA & & CO2 operation & PLC. From the 8 pieces of literature, researchers adopted the LCA
LCCO2A) Demolition
method. A case of hybrid LCA as well as combinations of LCA with
Baek et al. 2013 - LCA Building CO2 - X X Design, Const,
(LCCO2) Operation,
other analytical models noted i.e., Monte Carlo simulation, and
Disposal Bottom-up analytical techniques. LCA is prevalent for analysis
Dong et al. 2013 SETDZ, Hybrid LCA Industri- CO2 / - - X Operations of embodied energy and consequent carbon emissions over a
China al Park GHG material, product or item lifecycle. This is useful for emission
Pomponi 2016 Euro- LCA, Building CO2 - X X Design, Const, reduction strategies in construction noting most materials
& Mon- pean Operation, used emit variant levels of carbon dependent on embodied
caster. Union- Disposal
EU energy. It is noteworthy that PLC requires low carbon strategies
Biswas, 2014 Western LCA Building CO2 - X X Design, const,
be incorporated at the project initiation stage. The 8-research
2014 Aus- Operation, literature reviewed did not explicitly demonstrate in PLC activity.
tralia Disposal
Chou & 2015 - LCA & Building CO2 - X X Design, const,
Yeh Monte Operation,
Carlo Disposal
Gustavs- 2010 Sweden LCA & Building CO2 - X X Construction
son et al. Bottom-up

56 Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

Table 3 Summary of activities recommended under each stage Atmaca, A., & Atmaca, N. (2015). Life Cycle Energy (LCEA) and carbon dioxide
of the PLC for low carbon model. emissions (LCCO2A) assessment of two residential buildings in Gaziantep,
Turkey. Energy and Buildings, 102, 417–431. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.
enbuild.2015.06.008
No Initiation Design Construction and handover

Emphasis on low carbon Baek, C., Park, S.-H., Suzuki, M., &amp; Lee, S.-H. (2013). Life cycle carbon
Optimize and go green procurement or
1
Stakeholder awareness designs with attention to
green supply chain for faster acquisition of dioxide assessment tool for buildings in the schematic design phase. Energy
for low carbon planning optimizing the structure
/ building element.
material and equipment distribution and Buildings, 61, 275–287. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.enbuild.2013.01.025
Government facilitate
Prioritization of low Reduction of emissions through machine Biswas, W.K. (2014) ‘Carbon footprint and embodied energy consumption
dissemination of
2 carbon building optimisation and increased operator
knowledge on low
materials. expertise. assessment of building construction works in Western Australia’, International
carbon strategies. Journal of Sustainable Built Environment, 3(2), pp. 179–186. doi:10.1016/j.
Government and ijsbe.2014.11.004.
International
Best choice of construction method to
institution establish Design for ease of
3 increase efficiency in time, cost and
environmentally sound disassembly
material to have low waste generation.
Chau, C.K. et al. (2012) ‘Assessment of CO2 emissions reduction in
building standards high-rise concrete office buildings using different material use options’,
planning the building
Resources, Conservation and Recycling, 61, pp. 22–34. doi:10.1016/j.
Design concept resconrec.2012.01.001.
Use of eco-labelled materials in every
4 to include use of
building component for carbon reduction
renewable energy.
Chou, J.-S. and Yeh, K.-C. (2015) ‘Life cycle carbon dioxide emissions simulation
Use of PLC and LCA
in selection of low Optimisation of energy, electricity, gas and and Environmental Cost Analysis for building construction’, Journal of Cleaner
5 carbon material i.e., water and material utilization in every Production, 101, pp. 137–147. doi:10.1016/j.jclepro.2015.04.001.
cement, steel & ceramic construction operational activity
important.
Dong, H., Geng, Y., Xi, F., & Fujita, T. (2013). Carbon footprint evaluation at
More innovative low Adoption of the concept of reduce, reuse
6
carbon designs. and recycle in waste management. Industrial Park Level: A hybrid life cycle assessment approach. Energy Policy,
57, 298–307. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.enpol.2013.01.057
Utilize new technologies and renewable
7
energy for reduction of carbon emissions
Barandica, J.M.; Fernández-Sánchez, G.; Berzosa, Á.; Delgado, J.A.; Acosta, F.J.
Engineer building structures using green
8 cement and utilize wood materials to Applying life cycle thinking to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from road
further reduce carbon emissions projects. J. Clean. Prod. 2013, 57, 79–91. [CrossRef]

Source: Author, 2023 Hauschild, M.Z. Introduction to LCA methodology. In Life Cycle Assessment:
Theory and Practice; Springer: Cham, Switzerland, 2017.

5 Conclusions Gustavsson, L., Joelsson, A. and Sathre, R. (2010) ‘Life cycle primary energy
use and carbon emission of an eight-storey wood-framed apartment building’,
The Government has prioritized affordable housing and Energy and Buildings, 42(2), pp. 230–242. doi:10.1016/j.enbuild.2009.08.018.
infrastructure development in Kenya. It is noteworthy that
Kenya is a signatory to the Paris Agreement 2015 and hence Herda, G., Sangori, R., &amp; Bock, M. (2017). Low cost, low carbon, but no
data: Kenya’s struggle to develop the availability of performance data for
obligated through NDC to ambitiously achieve below 2C building products. Procedia Environmental Sciences, 38, 452–460. https://doi.
temperature rise by 2030. Each project regardless of scope has org/10.1016/j.proenv.2017.03.136
a carbon footprint. The carbon emissions reduction measures in
the construction life cycle start from the initiation stage where Kenya construction market size, trends and forecasts by sector - commercial,
the project owner has great authority in determining the whole industrial, infrastructure, energy and utilities, institutional and residential
series of construction activities [1]. The PLC approach ensures market analysis, 2022-2026. ReportLinker. (n.d.). https://www.reportlinker.com/
p06286213/Kenya-Construction-Market-Size-Trends-and-Forecasts-by-Sector-
that putting forward the concept of low carbon in the initiation Commercial-Industrial-Infrastructure-Energy-and-Utilities-Institutional-and-
phase, the same is passed to successive stages of PLC herein Residential-Market-Analysis.html
low carbon design and further low carbon construction [1].
Therefore, the concept of low carbon will be developed on low Kenya Construction Industry Databook Series Q1 2023 update: Sector to
carbon operational, low carbon dismantling and recycling grow at 7.1% annually through 2027 - researchandmarkets.com (2023)
following the life cycle of the building. In addition, current issues Business Wire. Available at: https://www.businesswire.com/news/
home/20230214005532/en/Kenya-Construction-Industry-Databook-
on the taxation of carbon in each sector including construction Series-Q1-2023-Update-Sector-to-Grow-at-7.1-Annually-Through-2027---
will emphasise the stakeholders to prefer the concept of low ResearchAndMarkets.com#:~:text=According%20to%20the%20publisher%2C%20
carbon development as well as sustainable environmental construction,story%20in%20Kenya%20remains%20intact. (Accessed: 14
insight. September 2023).

Mwende, J. (2023, May 17). List of top construction projects in Kenya – 2023.
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sustainable construction management techniques, useof
heavy equipment, production of construction material, human Müller, L. J., Kätelhön, A., Bachmann, M., Zimmermann, A., Sternberg, A., &
activities at the site, and transportation (Hong et al., 2014). Bardow, A. (2020, January 23). A guideline for life cycle assessment of Carbon
Furthermore, greater emphasis needs to be given to macro-level Capture and Utilization. Frontiers. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/
management, international collaboration, and the development fenrg.2020.00015/full
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Pomponi, F. and Moncaster, A. (2016a) ‘Embodied carbon mitigation
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Agung Wibowo, M., Uda, S. A., & Zhabrinna. (2018). Reducing carbon emission in R. R. (2020b, October 12). Carbon footprint of a port infrastructure from a life
construction base on Project Life Cycle (PLC). MATEC Web of Conferences, 195, cycle approach. MDPI. https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/17/20/7414/htm
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 Current State of Engineering, Initiatives for Improving
Skills and Professional Development Initiatives

By Eng. Margaret Ogai, CE, FIEK

Registrar/CEO, Engineers Board of Kenya

Can you provide an overview of the current state of

engineering education in Kenya?
Engineering education and professional development are vital for programs are recognized through a process of independent review
Kenya’s development as it strives to compete in an increasingly to ensure that the graduates have the necessary attributes to
globalized world. We so far have 15 universities in Kenya offering 66 seamlessly transition to industry upon graduation. The Board has
recognized engineering degree programs. The scope of disciplines recognized 66 programmes which graduate over 2,500 students
has also grown from the traditional civil, mechanical, electrical annually. This year, the Board targets to complete review of 26
engineering to include mechatronics, biomedical, aeronautical, pending programs.
mining, marine, materials & metallurgical, chemical & process
among others. The Board is currently working on a joint accreditation framework
with the Commission of University Education to ensure that the
One of the functions of the Board as per the Engineers Act 2011 standards of recognition of engineering programmes is seamless.
is to recognize both local and foreign engineering programs. The

What trends and challenges do you see in the engineering

education sector today?
Currently, engineering programs in Kenya are not recognized engineers in all sector of the economy, to enhance productivity and
globally. To remedy this, the Engineers Board of Kenya is currently competitiveness of our nation.
undergoing mentorship to accede to the Washington Accord which
is global mutual recognition for Internation Engineering Alliance Currently there are trade negotiations for liberalization to enhance
(IEA). The Board is being mentored by the Pakistan Engineering professional engineering services under East Africa Community
Council and the Board of Engineers Malaysia and is looking to (EAC), African Continental Trade Agreement (AfCTA) and World Trade
attain provisional signatory status by June 2025. Acceding to Organisation (WTO) agreements. This requires that Kenya’s is able
the Washington Accord will enable global recognition of Kenya’s to produce competent and capable engineers who are able to
engineering education and facilitate global mobility of our engineers compete on a global platform. This calls for greater linkages between
to other jurisdictions that are signatories. industry and academia to drive innovations, open up new skill
areas, re-tooling and ensuring that the engineering programmes
Engineering is a prerequisite when it comes to the development of are addressing the needs of industry and therefore, there will be
any country, as most infrastructural needs are driven by engineers; less reliance. The goal would be to produce and export engineering
be it roads, telecommunications, energy, electrical systems and services to other countries especially within the continent where
manufacturing. As the government implements the Bottom Up there is acute shortage of engineering skills.
Transformation Agenda (BETA), there is a great need to deploy

58 Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

 What role does practical training and internships play in
engineering education, and how does the EBK support
these initiatives?
An engineering professional’s lifecycle goes through three i) EBK GEIP (Exchequer Funded) model – for fresh
key stages which are all regulated by the Board, namely, graduates
recognized engineering education, a period of engineering ii) Agency-based model – for graduate engineers already
training and finally, engineering practice. in employment in industry
iii) Academia-based model – for graduate engineers
Sound and wholesome engineering education is the employed in academia
prerequisite for one to become a professional engineer.
When one goes through recognized engineering education, The Board collaborates with various Ministries, Departments
then they attain graduate attributes which prepares them to & Agencies and Engineering Consulting Firms in the delivery
get into the next phase in the engineering value chain, i.e. of the GEIP programme.
engineering training.
Towards EBK strategic intent to register 10,000 Professional
To ensure that an engineer goes through structured Engineers , the Bard is seeking expansion of the EBK GEIP
training, the Board has mounted the Graduate Engineers model to 2,000 per annum and has submitted proposal
Internship Programme which seeks to ensure that graduate to government on the same . This will address the high
engineers undergo structured training that will give them unemployment of the Graduate Engineers.
the professional competencies required for professional
registration. The Board runs 3 models of the Programme as
follows: -

What steps is the EBK taking to promote gender diversity

and inclusion within the engineering profession?
Currently, only 12% of the engineers’ registered by the Board out and funding mentorship and outreach programmes in
are women. high schools and universities to encourage more girls to take
up STEM subjects and to pursue careers in STEM. The Board
The Board collaborates with Institution of Engineers of Kenya has submitted proposals for funding to implement a women
(IEK) and Association of Civil Engineers of Kenya (ACEK) and engineers development program which will include training,
supports the Women Engineers Chapter (WEC) and Future leadership development and policy identification for gender
Leaders program. The Board is actively involved in carrying mainstreaming across public and private sectors.

Are there any international partnerships or collaborations

that the EBK is currently engaged in?
Yes, the Board participates in and is a member of various Association in which they collaborate on development
regional, continental and global Organizations. Firstly, with projects, capacity building and cultural exchange. Finally,
the East Africa Community -Mutual recognition Agreement the Board wants to become a provisional member of the
(EAC-MRA) which aids in cross- registration of engineers and Washington Accord/ International Engineering Alliance.
harmonization of engineering standards across the region. These collaborations are creating several opportunities for
The Board is also an affiliate member of the World Federation Kenyan engineers globally.
of Engineering Organization that helps to tap the international
resources like training and best practices globally. Further,
the Board has an MOU with the Korean Professional Engineers

Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

59
 Sustainable Energy Silutions in Kenya’s
Energy Needs: Advances in solar, wind,
and geothermal energy projects, their
implementation, and benefits
By EiK Correspondent

Picture: Courtesy

A ffordable and clean energy is one of the Sustainable

Development Goals (SDGs) developed by the United Nations
General Assembly in 2015 and adopted by host countries, including
Being an established pioneer in matters clean energy, the Kenyan
government, alongside a few other organizations, set up the Lake
Turkana Wind Power (LTWP) project. The LTWP project is situated in
Kenya. Standing at SDG 7, this goal entails making renewable Marsabit County and is currently the largest wind farm in Africa. In
energy solutions more affordable and efficient than non-renewable accordance with a 20-year PPA, this project provides low-cost wind
sources so that they are more palatable to the mainstream. In so energy to the national grid through KPLC. Electricity generated by
doing, green energy consumption would increase globally, which this project has greatly reduced Kenya’s reliance on fuel imports
would help mitigate against climate change. from neighbouring states.

Kenya has been achieving remarkable progress in establishing and Since its inception, the project has led to the upgrading of more
implementing sustainable energy solutions that are in consonance than 200 kilometers of the roads leading up to the wind farm site,
with Kenya’s energy needs. This is done through the relevant state which is beneficial to the community around the farm. As part of
agencies such as the Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), the LWTP also contributes
Corporation (REREC), Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority to the development of social amenities around the area. For the
(EPRA) and the Geothermal Development Company (GDC). example, the Burri-Aramia dispensary in Laisamis constituency
is a direct beneficiary of LWTP’s financial support. Currently, the
Through REREC, Kenya was able to set up the Garissa Solar Power dispensary enjoys increased access to vaccination programs and
Plant, a flagship project of the agency. The Garissa Solar Power higher maternity birth rates thanks to the support of LWTP.
Plant was set up to harness solar energy with a view to diversifying
the power generation mix and reducing reliability on electricity. It Aside from its impressive advances in solar and wind energy,
boasts an installed capacity of 54.65 MW, making it the largest grid Kenya is also home to Olkaria Geothermal Project, one of the
connected solar power plant in the East and Central Africa region. largest geothermal power plants in Africa. The Olkaria Project is
located within Hell’s Gate National Park in Nakuru County, and it
All the power generated through this plant is sold to the Kenya sources energy from the magma bodies below the surface of the
Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) through a Power Purchase Olkaria landscape. To harness this energy, wells are excavated to
Agreement (PPA). To implement this project, a 6-kilometer, 132 tap water and steam at very high pressures and temperatures. The
KV power transmission line was constructed between Kenya tapped steam is then piped to turbines which rotate generators and
Electricity Transmission Company (KETRACO) sub-station located produce electrical energy.
in Garissa and the REREC solar power plant that feeds the generated
power into the power grid. Geothermal energy provides a fairly reliable power supply that
remains largely unaffected by weather conditions. It is a clean
The Garissa Solar Power Plant is an outright manifestation of Kenya’s source of energy that contributes significantly to Kenya’s energy
commitment towards adopting sustainable energy solutions that needs. In addition to catering to the country’s energy supply needs,
not only mitigate climate change but also satisfy Kenya’s energy the Olkaria Project has also created several job opportunities during
needs by improving access to electricity in rural areas. Additionally, different phases of its operation, thereby benefitting members of
this program has significantly reduced Kenya’s overreliance on the Olkaria community.
fossil fuels, which is a firm step towards fulfilling SDG 7.
SDG 7, like all other SDGs, is a progressive goal that cannot be
Wind power is an equally clean source of energy whose popularity achieved overnight. However, it would be a grave injustice to fail to
is increasingly growing among green-thinking countries. Since it recognize the commendable steps Kenya, through state agencies
doesn’t require burning coal or fossil fuels to harness, it produces like REREC, has made towards achieving this SDG. By harnessing
no carbon emissions, making it one of the cleanest alternatives to these alternative sources of clean energy, we reduce our reliance
non-renewable sources of energy. on fossil fuels and in the process, leave the world a better place for
the benefit of future generations.

60 Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

Digital Transformation in Engineering:
The Role of Technology in Modern
Engineering Practices
By Lorein Odhiambo

Introduction

In the last three decades, engineering has been a fairly

technological space. There is no hiding that with the constant
advancement of tools, software, and equipment, it is crucial for
pyramids to the latest advancements in technology, engineering
has played a vital role in shaping the world we live in.

professionals in this sphere to evolve and reinvent themselves As technology continues to evolve, engineers are at the forefront
on a regular basis. of innovation, developing new and improved solutions to the
challenges we face today. From tackling climate change to
Engineering has been a fundamental part of human development improving healthcare, engineers are working to create a better
and progress for centuries; From the ancient Egyptians building future for everyone.

Impact of Technological Advancement on Engineering Practices today.

those already working in engineering fields, knowledge of the
technical advancements in AI can provide a valuable way to get
ahead and stay relevant.

Machine Learning (ML) focuses on developing algorithms that

allow systems to learn from data and improve their performance
over time without explicit programming. ML can perform tasks
like predictive maintenance, optimization, and automation,
freeing up the engineer’s time for creative problem-solving.

Neural networks are another subset of AI. They are designed to

mimic the functioning of the human brain by processing data
through interconnected nodes to recognize patterns and make
decisions. Engineers apply neural networks for tasks such as
image recognition, fault diagnosis, and control systems to make
their work more efficient.
Picture: Courtesy
Data analytics involves analyzing vast amounts of data. AI-
driven data analytics tools help engineers streamline tasks

In Kenya, digital technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), such as predictive modeling, risk assessment, and performance
Internet of Things (IoT) and Blockchains are being adopted to optimization.
address local challenges and enhance engineering practices.
ii. Blockchain technology applications
For example, AI and IoT are being utilized in large-scale
infrastructure projects like road construction and urban In Kenya, blockchain technology is being adopted across
development to improve efficiency and quality. In the renewable various engineering projects to address local challenges and
energy sector, IoT and AI aid in the management and optimization improve practices. For instance:
of projects, enhancing energy production and distribution. Block
chain and IoT are also making significant strides in agricultural a) Infrastructure Projects: Blockchain is being used
engineering by improving supply chain transparency and in large-scale infrastructure projects to ensure
enabling precision farming. transparency and accountability in project
management and execution.
i. Artificial Intelligence Technology:
b) Renewable Energy: In the renewable energy sector,
At its most basic, AI technology encompasses various techniques blockchain helps manage and optimize energy
that enable machines to simulate human-like intelligence. For production and distribution by providing a secure and
transparent record of energy transactions and usage.

Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

61
 c) Agriculture: Blockchain is revolutionizing agricultural applications available. We have seen Safaricom’s narrowband
engineering by enhancing supply chain transparency IoT network being used for piloting smart water meters in various
and enabling precision farming. By recording and cities in the country, creating a water product line. Furthermore,
sharing data securely, blockchain ensures that all Liquid Intelligent Technologies has used its Sigfox network for
stakeholders have access to accurate and reliable a number of solutions in the water sector. However, most of the
information. smart metering implementations have struggled to move past
the trial stage, given the difficulty in generating a return on
iii. Internet of Things Technology investment. Similar to the energy sector, the water sector has
relatively demonstrated caution with testing IoT applications.
The Internet of Things (IoT), on the other hand, is making
significant strides in Kenya, particularly in the utility sectors, The transportation sector stands out as having the highest
where it is enhancing efficiency, sustainability, and service number of IoT applications. The sector has profoundly embraced
delivery. Various sectors, including transportation, energy, IoT through various applications such as asset tracking, smart
waste management, water, and sanitation, have adopted IoT public transport, delivery drones, and electric vehicles. Electric
solutions. vehicles have been equipped with sensors to monitor routing
and energy consumption in addition to pointing to nearby
The energy sector has adopted IoT in the form of smart metering, charging stations available on their routes. Drones, on the other
micro grids, and PAYG cooking. Even with the limited IoT use in hand, are increasingly being used for the delivery of items,
its operations, Kenya Power and Lighting Company (KPLC) has, mostly medical supplies, in Kenya. Asset tracking is the most
in the recent past, installed smart meters to over 55,000 SME common use case of IoT in the transport sector. Companies such
customers as part of a World Bank-funded project. KenGen has as Safaricom, Airtel, and Liquid Intelligent Technologies have
also integrated IoT within its geothermal sites to enable remote since offered a range of fleet management and asset-tracking
monitoring. This clearly shows how Kenya has made strides in solutions through their networks.
the use of Pay-As-You-Grow (PAYG) solar household systems to
provide affordable energy alternatives. The rapid growth of PAYG As IoT continues to evolve, its impact on utilities in Kenya is
solar has largely been driven by the country’s extensive mobile expected to grow, driving further innovation and improvement in
money coverage, which has enabled clients to make payments quality of life.
over time. The use of mobile payments in IoT use cases has been
replicated in several other sectors, such as water, irrigation, and
clean cooking. Conclusion
In the waste management industry, the most prevalent IoT use
cases are smart bins that involve remote monitoring of the B y embracing digital technologies, our country is positioning
itself at the forefront of engineering innovation. All the
ongoing transformation that we see highlight the importance
location and container waste level, as well as smart recycling.
of continuous learning and adaptation in the engineering field,
seeing to it that professionals stay ahead in an ever-evolving
Notably in the water sector, water treatment, smart water meters,
technological space.
water ATMs, and supply network monitoring are few of the IoT

Picture: Courtesy

62 Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

Innovative Engineering Projects in
Water Supply, Irrigation and Sanitation
By Audrey Rendo

Kenya is on a transformative journey in the fields of water approach not only conserves water but also reduces the
supply, irrigation, and sanitation. Despite the challenges posed strain on existing water sources.
by rapid population growth, climate change, and urbanization,
the country is making remarkable progress. Leading the • Smart Irrigation Systems: The company has also embraced
way, organizations like Davis & Shirtliff and the Ministry of IoT-enabled smart irrigation systems. These systems
Water, Sanitation, and Irrigation are spearheading innovative monitor soil moisture and weather conditions to optimize
engineering projects that are creating sustainable solutions and water use, ensuring that crops receive the right amount
significantly improving water management. These efforts are not of water at the right time. This technology significantly
only addressing the current challenges but also paving the way improves water efficiency in agriculture, boosting
for a brighter, more resilient future for Kenya. productivity while conserving resources.

Current State of Water Supply, • Water Purification and Treatment Plants: Davis & Shirtliff
has been instrumental in designing and constructing
Irrigation, and Sanitation in Kenya modular water treatment plants that can be easily deployed
in remote areas. These plants provide clean drinking water,
Kenya’s water resources are unevenly distributed, with some improving public health and reducing the incidence of
regions experiencing severe water scarcity. The country’s water waterborne diseases.
supply infrastructure is outdated and inadequate, particularly
in rural areas. According to the Ministry of Water, Sanitation, • Sanitation Solutions: In the realm of sanitation, Davis &
and Irrigation, only about 60% of the population has access to Shirtliff has developed innovative solutions such as biogas
safe drinking water, and sanitation coverage is similarly low, digesters. These systems treat waste while producing
especially in informal urban settlements. biogas, which can be used for cooking or electricity
generation. This approach not only improves sanitation but
Irrigation is another critical area, as agriculture accounts for also provides a renewable energy source.
a significant portion of Kenya’s economy and employment.
However, inefficient irrigation practices and limited access to
modern technologies hinders agricultural productivity. The
government and private sector are increasingly recognizing the
need for sustainable solutions to these pressing issues.

Innovative Projects by Davis &

Shirtliff
Davis & Shirtliff, a leading supplier of water-related equipment in
East Africa, has been at the forefront of innovative engineering
solutions in water supply, irrigation, and sanitation. Some of
their key projects include:

• Solar-Powered Water Pumps: Davis & Shirtliff has developed

and deployed solar-powered water pumps to provide reliable
water supply in off-grid areas. These pumps harness solar
energy, making them an environmentally friendly and cost-
effective solution. By reducing dependence on traditional
power sources, they ensure a consistent water supply for
drinking, irrigation, and other uses.

• Rainwater Harvesting Systems: To address water scarcity,

Davis & Shirtliff has introduced advanced rainwater
Picture: Courtesy
harvesting systems. These systems collect and store
rainwater, which can then be used for domestic purposes,
irrigation, and even potable use after proper treatment. This

Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

63
 Initiatives by the particularly in arid and semi-arid
regions.
be lacking. They also reduce the risks
associated with long-distance water
Ministry of Water, transport.
Sanitation, and • Desalination Projects: The Ministry
has invested in large-scale 2. Integrated Water Resource
Irrigation desalination plants to augment Management (IWRM)
freshwater supplies in coastal areas.
The Ministry of Water, Sanitation, These plants convert seawater into IWRM is a holistic approach that considers
and Irrigation has been proactive in freshwater, providing a reliable the interconnections between water
implementing large-scale projects to source of drinking water for resources and other sectors such as
improve water access and sanitation communities facing water shortages agriculture, energy, and urban planning.
across Kenya. Some of their notable This trend emphasizes coordinated
initiatives include: • Upgrading Water Treatment and sustainable management of water
Facilities: Upgrading existing water resources, balancing social, economic,
• Community Water Management treatment facilities and building new and environmental needs.
Programs: The Ministry has ones is a key priority for the Ministry.
launched community-driven These efforts aim to ensure that 3. Climate Resilience
water management programs that urban and rural areas have access
empower locals to maintain and to safe drinking water, reducing
the risk of waterborne diseases. Water management strategies
oversee their water resources. are increasingly incorporating
These programs foster a sense Sanitation Infrastructure
Improvements: The Ministry has climate resilience measures. This
of ownership and ensure the includes designing infrastructure to
sustainability of water supply undertaken several projects to
improve sanitation infrastructure, withstand extreme weather events,
systems. implementing drought-resistant
such as constructing eco-friendly
toilets and enhancing sewage technologies, and developing adaptive
• National Rainwater Harvesting treatment processes. These efforts water management plans. Climate
Campaigns: To combat water aim to protect water sources from resilience ensures the sustainability
scarcity, the Ministry has promoted contamination and improve overall and reliability of water supply
rainwater harvesting through public health. systems in the face of climate change.
nationwide campaigns and
subsidies. This initiative encourages 4. Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs)
households and communities to In the evolving landscape of water
adopt rainwater harvesting systems, management, several key trends are
shaping the future Collaborations between the public
of water supply, sector, private companies, and non-
irrigation, and governmental organizations are
sanitation. These becoming more common. PPPs leverage
trends reflect the strengths of each sector to finance,
advancements implement, and manage water projects.
in technology, This trend facilitates access to expertise,
sustainability technology, and funding, driving
practices, and innovation and efficiency.
policy initiatives
aimed
addressing global
at
Conclusion
water challenges.
The innovative engineering projects
1. Decentralized are transforming Kenya’s water supply,
Water Treatment irrigation, and sanitation landscape. By
leveraging technology and sustainable
practices, these initiatives are
Decentralized
addressing critical challenges and paving
water treatment
the way for a more water-secure and
systems, which
healthy future for all Kenyans.
treat water at or
near the point of
use, are becoming
increasingly
popular. These
systems provide
Picture: Courtesy
a flexible and
scalable solution
for rural and peri-
urban areas,
where centralized
infrastructure may

64 Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

Role of Engineers in Addressing
Climate Change
By EiK Correspondent

A s climate change keeps posing a

great threat to future generations,
engineers in Kenya, with the help of the
on the Kenya Coastal Development
Project which was aimed at enhancing
the management and exploitation
happened in Nairobi when the country
was experiencing El Nino rains in April
and May, 2024. Thanks in no small part
National Environmental Management of Kenya’s marine resources. This to the poor drainage systems within
Authority (NEMA), endeavor to take a project was financed by the Global Nairobi, more than 100 people lost their
proactive stance in fighting climate Environmental Facility (GEF) and the lives and scores were left homeless as
change by applying green practices World Bank and was scheduled to run well. This highlights the need to develop
in their projects. At the center of these for six years. Through this project, infrastructure that takes into account
projects is the net-zero goal; the engineers have been able to apply the geographical make-up of an area
reduction of net carbon emissions to environmental-friendly practices vis-à-vis its population size.
zero in the foreseeable future. in building infrastructure that is
instrumental in implementing this NEMA has also been working together
The first step towards the net zero project, such as sanitation solutions with engineers to mitigate the effect of
goal is replacing carbon fuels with and coastal protection structures. landslides in the Kakamega and Nandi
renewable sources of energy. Judging NEMA’s involvement in this project Hills areas. These two areas are prone to
by the increased use of solar energy was particularly focused on its third landslides because of their topography.
as opposed to non-renewable sources component, which is building coastal In Kakamega, a landslide that occurred
energy in construction projects, the net- capacity for sustainable natural use in 2007 claimed at least 18 lives and
zero goal does not seem so far-fetched. and management. destroyed several acres worth of
The Kenya Off-Grid Solar Access Project agricultural property. In the wake of
(KOSAP) is one example of collaborative Aside from environmental conservation, that disaster, state agencies have been
initiative between NEMA and Kenyan disaster resilience also ranks quite working together with engineers to
engineers, which aims to provide solar highly in the priority list of engineers avert any such subsequent disasters,
energy to remote areas in the country. in addressing climate change. by designing slope stabilization
Disaster resilience entails improving techniques such as terracing.
The KOSAP project is premised infrastructure to mitigate the impact of
on the need to replace electricity natural disasters. Such disasters range Engineers play a vital role in
with solar energy which is a green from floods and drought to landslides addressing climate change through
source of energy. In the project, and earthquakes. In Nairobi, engineers their construction projects. Most
NEMA is responsible for conducting are working hand-in-hand with NEMA times, they engage other stakeholders
environmental impact assessment to gradually improve the drainage such as NEMA in coming up with
before the construction of mini-grids infrastructure and prevent flooding in holistic strategies that would ensure
begins. The authority also oversees various areas of the county. their projects maintain the highest
environmental compliance and possible standards of environmental
monitoring to ensure that the project is This includes building sustainable conservation and disaster resilience.
in full compliance with environmental urban drainage systems (SUDS) and
standards during its pendency. retention ponds, and improving storm
water drainage systems. However, this
In 2011, NEMA, in collaboration with is very much still a work in progress as
six other state agencies, embarked borne out by the amount of flooding that

Picture: Courtesy

Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

65
 Kenya Association of Manufacturers:
Strategies for Transforming Manufacturing in
Kenya
By EiK Correspondent

T he Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM) has been at

the forefront of driving industrial growth and development
in Kenya since its inception in 1959. Representing over 1,000
3 Capacity Building and Skills
Development
manufacturing and value-add companies, KAM plays a critical The manufacturing sector’s transformation hinges on a skilled
role in shaping policies, advocating for a conducive business workforce capable of operating advanced machinery and
environment, and fostering sustainable industrial growth. In adapting to new technologies. KAM has prioritized capacity
recent years, the association has focused on transformative building and skills development through various training
strategies to propel the manufacturing sector into a new era of programs and initiatives. The association offers workshops,
innovation, competitiveness, and sustainability. seminars, and certification courses tailored to the needs of the
manufacturing industry.
Over the years, KAM has employed a number of key strategies to
achieve this ambitious transformation. Additionally, KAM collaborates with vocational training
institutions to align their curricula with industry needs, ensuring
1 Policy Advocacy and Regulatory that graduates are equipped with relevant skills. By investing
in human capital, KAM aims to build a robust and adaptable
Reforms workforce that can drive the sector’s growth and transformation.
One of KAM’s primary strategies is robust policy advocacy
aimed at creating a favourable regulatory environment for 4 Sustainable Manufacturing Practices
manufacturers. KAM works closely with the government to
ensure that policies are conducive to industrial growth. This Sustainability is a critical aspect of modern manufacturing,
includes lobbying for tax incentives, streamlined regulatory and KAM is committed to promoting environmentally friendly
processes, and reduced bureaucratic hurdles. By advocating for practices within the industry. The association encourages
policies that support industrial growth, KAM aims to make Kenya manufacturers to adopt green technologies and sustainable
a more attractive destination for both local and international practices to reduce their environmental footprint. This includes
investors. initiatives aimed at energy efficiency, waste management, and
water conservation.
A notable success in this area is the push for the “Buy Kenya,
Build Kenya” initiative, which encourages the consumption KAM’s Centre for Green Growth and Climate Change (CGGCC) plays
of locally produced goods. This policy not only boosts local a pivotal role in this endeavor, offering guidance and support
manufacturing but also fosters a sense of national pride and to manufacturers in implementing sustainable practices. By
self-reliance. championing sustainability, KAM not only helps protect the
environment but also enhances the global competitiveness
of Kenyan products, which are increasingly favored by
2 Enhancing Competitiveness through environmentally conscious consumers.
Innovation
Innovation is at the heart of KAM’s strategy to transform 5 Market Access and Trade Facilitation
the manufacturing sector. Recognizing that technological
advancement is key to competitiveness, KAM has been Expanding market access is another crucial strategy for
instrumental in promoting the adoption of cutting-edge transforming Kenya’s manufacturing sector. KAM works to
technologies. This includes the integration of Industry 4.0 open up new markets for Kenyan products both regionally and
technologies such as automation, Internet of Things (IoT), and internationally. This involves advocating for trade agreements,
artificial intelligence (AI) into manufacturing processes. reducing trade barriers, and participating in trade missions to
promote Kenyan goods abroad.
KAM also supports research and development (R&D) initiatives
by collaborating with academic institutions and research bodies. KAM also supports manufacturers in meeting international
These partnerships aim to bridge the gap between research standards and certifications, which are often prerequisites for
and practical application in the industry, fostering a culture of entering global markets. By facilitating access to new markets,
continuous improvement and innovation. KAM helps manufacturers scale their operations and increase
their competitiveness on a global stage.

66 Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

6 Infrastructure Development
Adequate infrastructure is fundamental
to the growth of the manufacturing sector.
KAM advocates for the development of
infrastructure that supports industrial
activities, including reliable power supply,
efficient transportation networks, and modern
industrial parks. The association works with
government and private sector partners to
address infrastructure gaps and ensure that
manufacturers have access to the resources
they need to thrive.

The development of Special Economic Zones

(SEZs) and Industrial Parks is a testament
to these efforts. These zones provide
manufacturers with world-class infrastructure,
tax incentives, and simplified regulatory
procedures, creating an enabling environment
for industrial growth.

7 Fostering Collaboration and

Partnerships
Collaboration is a cornerstone of KAM’s strategy.
The association fosters partnerships between
manufacturers, government, and other
stakeholders to address common challenges
and leverage collective strengths. By creating
platforms for dialogue and cooperation, KAM
ensures that the interests of manufacturers
are represented and that solutions are jointly
developed

KAM’s various sectoral committees and

working groups are instrumental in this regard.
These bodies bring together industry players
to discuss issues, share best practices, and
develop strategies for sectoral growth.

8 Conclusion
The Kenya Association of Manufacturers
is spearheading the transformation of the
manufacturing sector in Kenya through a
multifaceted approach. By advocating for
favorable policies, promoting innovation,
building capacity, championing sustainability,
facilitating market access, developing
infrastructure, and fostering collaboration,
KAM is laying the groundwork for a vibrant
and competitive manufacturing industry.
As these strategies continue to unfold, the
manufacturing sector in Kenya is poised
to become a significant driver of economic
growth and development.

Picture: Courtesy

Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

67
 Role of HVAC and AC in
Building Designs
By EiK Correspondent
Picture: Courtesy

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Air Conditioning (AC) systems focus Challenges and Future
(HVAC) systems play a crucial role in mainly on cooling the air and regulating
modern building design, impacting humidity. AC systems are mostly used Directions
not only comfort and indoor air quality to cool indoor spaces especially during Despite the advancements, several
but also energy efficiency and overall hot weather, and in reducing humidity challenges remain in HVAC integration:
building performance. Successful levels. AC systems differ from complex
synergy of HVAC systems into the HVAC systems in that they lack heating 1. Energy Consumption: HVAC
building design is the sure key to energy capabilities unless they are part of a heat systems are one of the most
efficiency, sustainability, and occupant pump system. significant energy consumers in
comfort increase. buildings. This means incorporating
They often consist of an indoor unit HVAC systems IS not only a matter
The Fundamentals of HVAC (evaporator coil) and an outdoor unit of aesthetics, but they have to
(condenser coil and compressor). continuously reconcile the energy
Systems use to enhance efficiency and lower
HVAC systems are integral to controlling Importance of HVAC and AC costs for both occupants and the
the indoor environment of buildings. They in Building Design owners of buildings.
encompass a range of technologies used
to regulate heating, cooling, ventilation, The inclusion of HVAC systems in building 2. Maintenance: Most of the
and air quality. design is essential for several reasons. HVAC systems require regular
Foremost, it promotes occupant comfort, maintenance for them to work
These systems include a range of which is a key aspect in residential, optimally. This can ultimately feel
components such as furnaces, heat commercial, and industrial buildings. expensive.
pumps, boilers, air handlers, ductwork,
ventilation fans, and air conditioning Secondly, it is essential for the health 3. Climate Variability: Designing HVAC
units. HVAC systems are often integrated and general well-being of the building systems that can adapt to varying
with smart controls and thermostats for occupants. Good HVAC systems ensure climate conditions is a complex task,
optimized performance. proper ventilation and air filtration, but also one that cannot be ignored
which in turn improves indoor air quality as the world makes a unique shift
Effective HVAC design ensures: and reduces the occurrence and risk towards climate resilient buildings.
of respiratory issues and other health
1. Thermal Comfort: Maintaining problems. The future of HVAC lies in further
desirable indoor temperatures integration of renewable energy
regardless of external weather More so, efficient HVAC systems sources, advanced materials, and smart
conditions. HVAC systems work by are a definite step towards energy technologies. Emphasis on sustainable
heating or cooling accordingly, thus management as they significantly and green building practices will drive
maintaining comfort for the building reduce energy consumption. This goes the development of HVAC systems that
occupants. a long way in lowering the operational not only meet comfort and efficiency
costs. standards but also contribute to
2. Indoor Air Quality: Ventilation is environmental conservation.
a vital part of modern buildings. Mold growth and the resulting structural
HVAC systems work to bring fresh damage to buildings can be directly HVAC systems are indispensable in
air and exhaust the stale air. They attributed to humidity. Proper humidity modern building design. They, to a large
are even more necessary in areas control prevents the mold growth and extent, impact comfort, health, energy
of the building where the airflow is contributes significantly to building efficiency, and sustainability. Successful
tight. Proper ventilation and filtration longevity. incorporation of these systems around
removes pollutants and controls the world illustrate how advanced HVAC
humidity. HVAC systems play a crucial role in systems are being integrated into diverse
enhancing a building’s sustainability. building projects, setting benchmarks
3. Energy Efficiency: Minimizing Adopting sustainable practices, such as for future developments. As technology
energy consumption while integrating energy-efficient equipment, continues to evolve, HVAC systems
maintaining comfort and air quality. utilizing renewable energy sources, will play an increasingly critical role in
and implementing water conservation shaping the built environment, ensuring
4. System Integration: Seamlessly strategies, helps in lowering the building’s buildings are comfortable, efficient, and
incorporating HVAC systems into the carbon footprint. These measures are in sustainable.
overall building design. line with the increasing emphasis on eco-
friendly building design.

68 Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

The New Energy Landscape in Africa
and Youthful Potential – the Time for
Incremental Change is Over
By Ifeanyi Odoh, Country President, Schneider Electric East Africa

T he world is becoming
increasingly electrified and
with this comes challenges and
Introducing an EV to a household could multiply its energy
consumption by three to four times.

opportunities. It is a time that To meet this demand, and allow for the increased adoption
sees countries across the globe of EVs, optimised energy management strategies should be
witnessing a change in how we implemented, allowing for the development of onsite renewable
produce and consume energy. generation, such as rooftop solar and introducing efficiency
Ifeanyi Odoh
Country President, Schneider
measures, with digitised real-time monitoring to manage and
Electric East Africa It is a world that races against reduce energy use.
time to meet emissions
reduction targets and the Developing the skills for the new energy
urgency to fulfil subsequent sustainable transformation. It
is a place which sees organisations prioritise digitalisation,
landscape
decarbonisation and sustainability. Africa, particularly East Africa, boasts a youthful population. For
example, over 80 percent of Kenya’s population is aged 35 years
At the heart of it all lies the new energy landscape. and below. It’s a young, impressionable population that has the
potential to change the course of history.
Defining the new energy landscape
It is also this demographic which underscores the importance of
training young people to drive forward the new energy landscape.
The new energy landscape represents the outcome of the global Here, vocational schools can play a critical role in preparing the
shift toward renewable energy sources, which is crucial to fight youth for the future, ensuring that East Africa capitalises on its
climate change. And for each country this is somewhat unique, demographic advantage without the need to import skills.
depending on the sum of the alternative energy resources that
ultimately make up the part that is the new energy landscape. Establishing this young, dynamic and skilled labour force can
also extend to entrepreneurship and training, again emphasising
In Kenya, for example, we’re seeing the emergence of an electric the importance of partnerships with vocational schools and
vehicle (EV) marketplace which will leverage the country’ industry stakeholders. This will equip the next generation with
geothermal and hydropower energies baseload. This transition the necessary skills to thrive in the new energy landscape.
not only represents the adoption of new technology but also a
cultural shift towards higher productivity driven, if you will, by Indeed, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are set to
alternative energy. become the backbone of East Africa’s new energy landscape
movement. It is these organisations that will create jobs and
However, with this adoption should also come sound energy with the support of large global organisations like Schneider
management practices. People tend to charge their EVs at Electric set benchmarks for the establishment of the new energy
their destination—be it their office, home, or shopping malls— landscape.
accounting for almost 80% of charging behaviour. This shift could
potentially double or triple the energy demand of buildings Schneider Electric envisions a future shaped by countries like
overnight. Kenya, acting at this intersection between technology and
decarbonisation. It is also leaders such as the youth and SMEs,
To illustrate, a typical electric car might use approximately 7KW which we refer to as impact makers, which are driving change
to charge, while in Kenya, has a power demand of about 2KW. and shaping a more resilient, electric, and net-zero world.

Picture: Courtesy

Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

69
 Understanding the road Sector
in Kenya
By Senior Corporate Communications Officer, KeNHA

KeNHA manage, and maintain all National Trunk Roads comprising

Classes S, A, and B roads.
The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) is committed
to develop, maintain, and manage resilient, safe, and adequate On the other side, KeRRA deals with the development,
National Trunk Roads. To deliver on this mandate, the Authority rehabilitation, maintenance and management of rural roads
is driven by innovation and optimal utilization of resources for while KURA is concerned with the Management, Development,
sustainable road Rehabilitation, and Maintenance of urban roads.

development. KeNHA has continuously improved the road Project Planning and Design
network under her jurisdiction, comprising classes S, A, and B
roads countrywide hence revolutionizing economic growth in An officer in this Sector needs to appreciate and engage in the
the country and the region. planning and design phases of road projects. This includes
conducting feasibility studies, environmental assessments,
By Joseph Kariuki Thuku, MPRSK traffic studies, and community consultations.

One challenge that public officers have had to contend with It is important to take cognizance of the fact that it takes
is navigating the ever-evolving regulatory landscape of their collaborative effort of engineers, architects, communicators,
various areas of jurisdiction. This is in a bid for them to stay up- accountants, supply chain officers and other professionals to
to-date with the changing regulations and ensure compliance, ensure that road designs are efficient, safe, and sustainable.
which often prove to be a daunting task.
Stakeholder Engagement
This calls for the Public Officers to deliberately invest in
continuous learning and training so as to keep abreast of Officer in this sector frequently conduct engagement sessions
regulatory changes. This is even more urgent for Public Officers with various stakeholders throughout any project lifecycle. This
working in the Road Sector. includes collaborating with local communities, government
officials, Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), and the
This is one sector that the government has been investing in for a private sector players to effectively deliver a project.
long time thus continuously improving the road infrastructure to
enhance connectivity, promote economic growth, and improve Effective communication and consultation is essential to
the quality of life for all. A government officer in this Sector, address concerns, gather feedback, and build consensus across
therefore, should - among other issues - consider the aspects all the stakeholders surrounding the project. A slight level of
discussed below which are critical in understanding and misinformation could stall an otherwise significant project for a
appreciating the operations in this jurisdiction. country.

Regulatory Environment Construction and Project Management

The officer should familiarize oneself with the relevant laws, The Sector players often oversee the construction phase of roads
regulations, and policies governing road development. This through ensuring that the projects are implemented according to
includes understanding the roles and responsibilities of the approved plans and specifications. This involves managing
government agencies in this sector such as the Kenya National contractors, monitoring progress, quality control, and adhering
Highways Authority (KeNHA), Kenya Urban Roads Authority to health and safety standards agreed upon.
(KURA), Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA), and the Kenya
Effective project management skills are, therefore, crucial for
Roads Board (KRB).
officers in this Sector if they are to ensure timely completion of
Not many people appreciate the distinction of the mandate of project at appropriate costs.
these different agencies in the road sector. The Kenya Roads
Board is established is to oversee the road network in Kenya and Quality Assurance and Maintenance
coordinate its development, rehabilitation and maintenance. It
Officers in this Sector are tasked to ensure that road construction
administers the fuel Levy Fund.
meets requisite quality standards and specifications. This calls
The agencies are responsible for select classes of roads with for implementation of regular maintenance programs so as to
KeNHA charged with the responsibility to develop, rehabilitate, preserve the condition of the roads and extend their lifespan.

70 Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

An approach that has often yielded desirable results, at least from
experience Sector players, is implementation of routine maintenance,
repairs, and rehabilitation works.

Sustainability and Innovation

An officer in this Sector should seek to embrace sustainable road
development practices such as incorporating green infrastructure,
energy-efficient lighting, and environmentally friendly materials. There
is need to explore innovative technologies and approaches that can
improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance the durability of the
road infrastructure.

Collaboration and Partnerships

One will quickly realise that the Sector performs better though
collaboration and partnerships with other organizations, both nationally
and internationally. This includes collaborating with development
agencies, research institutions, and private sector entities so as to
leverage expertise, funding, and resources mobilization.

Monitoring and Evaluation

Officers in this sector often establishes robust monitoring and
evaluation systems meant to assess the performance and impact of
road projects. This helps to identify areas for improvement, measure
the effectiveness of interventions, and ensure accountability.

Embrace Technology
Just like in may jurisdictions, officers in this Sector have learnt to
embrace digital technologies and innovations in road development,
such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, and
data analytics. These tools often aid in project planning, monitoring,
and maintenance.

Capacity Building and Training

It is evident, therefore, that any employee in this Sector requires to invest
in capacity building and training programs for efficient service delivery.
This includes acquisition of technical skills, project management,
and knowledge-sharing sessions. This is often supplemented by
Continuous Professional Development trainings for the officers to keep
up with advancements in the Sector.

In a nutshell, working in the Road Sector in Kenya offers an opportunity

learn continuously while contributing to the country’s infrastructure
development and economic growth. Focusing on quality, sustainability,
and stakeholder engagement ensures the Sector players make a
positive impact on the road network and the lives of the people who
depend on it.

Picture: Courtesy

Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

71
Sprintex Engineering Services Ltd:
Experts in Motor Rewinding

S printex Engineering Services Ltd is an

established professional electrical motors
rewinding and repairs workshop, with vast and
knowledgeable experience in overhauling and
rewinding of all types of electric motors both
AC/DC motors, generators, transformers, Semi
Hermetic Compressors, Stepper motors, Servo
Motors, Lift motors and Welding machines.

We offer high tech quality, efficient and quick

turn around services ensuring that our clients'
down time is minimized in refurbishment of
electric machines.

The company is headquartered in Nairobi,

Kenya and has a branch in Jinja, Uganda.

Eng. Okoth, the managing director, has

authored a book on Electrical Engineering
titled Electrical Power Distribution, Industrial
Electricity, Electric Motors and Control Systems.

‘Our services render conform with IEC, EASA,

AEMT Standards. All electric machines repaired
are subject to thorough instrument and
electrical tests before dispatch to the client,’
quips the MD.
Anton Jacobsz resigns as Exclusive
Networks Africa managing director
JOHANNESBURG – July 30, 2024 –

Cybersecurity specialist Exclusive Networks Africa has announced the imminent departure of long-
serving managing director, Anton Jacobsz, who will remain a shareholder with the organisation as
well as serving in an advisory capacity moving forward.
Jacobsz today advised that he would be stepping down from his position, three years after the
Exclusive Networks acquisition of value-added distributor Networks Unlimited in early 2022, where
he held the capacities of chief executive officer for three years and managing director for almost six
years.
Reflecting on his tenure, Jacobsz expressed pride in the local team’s collective achievements,
particularly noting significant milestones reached since the sale of the business to Exclusive
Networks, including a revenue growth of more than 160 percent and profitability growth in excess of
230 percent since January 2022.
“Exclusive Networks Africa has delivered tremendous growth over this period, establishing a strong
footprint across the continent and developing into the region’s cybersecurity value-added distributor
of choice.”
Sharing his gratitude, Jacobsz added that he would like to thank his staff for the teamwork and
friendships developed over the years. “This has been a special time in my life and Networks
Unlimited in particular was like a child to me. I believe I will be leaving the business in good hands
with our current management team.”
Although Jacobsz’s operational role will end at the end of July 2024, he will remain involved in the
organisation’s handover process during the third quarter of the year.

Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

73
 STUDENTS’ VOICES
The ever-changing nature of engineering means that there is always something new to learn, keeping
the field fascinating the engineering education system in Kenya has made substantial progress.
However, it could benefit from additional developments like revising the curriculum to incorporate
developing technology. Kenya is undergoing numerous large infrastructure projects, including
the development addressed by CCE2024 Engineering Conference. Exploring affordable housing
alternatives and sustainable transportation systems provides an intriguing peek into how Kenya
might develop for a brighter future. Lamu Port-South Sudan-Ethiopia Transport (LAPSSET) Corridor.
These initiatives are intended to greatly promote economic growth, ultimately benefiting the
country's overall development. Kenya's attempts to create renewable energy sources, particularly
solar and wind power, are praiseworthy.

As a future engineer, participating in these activities is critical. Sustainable energy solutions address
Name: Juliana Muendo
environmental problems while simultaneously ensuring energy security and economic stability.
Age :22 years

Technical university of Kenya's water resource management faces issues such as, poor distribution, and contamination.
Mombasa
Engineers address these concerns by developing creative solutions such as sophisticated water
Bs Mechanical Engineering filtration system and sustainable water management methods. Smart cities and the (IoT) have the
Year 4 potential to transform Kenya's engineering future by offering better urban planning, more effective
resource management.

The possibility of being a part of such dramatic changes is quite exciting. Engineers play an important
role in reducing climate change and fostering environmental sustainability in Kenya by designing
eco-friendly technologies.

My passion for Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering studies fuels my excitement in problem-
solving and societal improvement for applying innovative technologies to enhance agricultural
productivity and sustainability. While my educational journey has been rewarding, I see a need
for more hands-on training, industry collaboration, and updated curricula to reflect emerging
engineering trends.

Kenya's major infrastructure projects, like the development of irrigation schemes in regions such as
Galana-Kulalu and the construction of dams, promises significant agricultural benefits by improving
water availability and enhancing food security. These projects will boost agricultural productivity,
create jobs, and support economic growth in rural areas.

The expansion of renewable energy projects, such as solar and wind power, is crucial for reducing
Name: Nduhiu Bill Mureithi
fossil fuel reliance and promoting environmental sustainability. Water resource management in
Age: 24
Kenya faces challenges like scarcity, inefficiency, and pollution. Engineers can address these
University: Kenyatta issues through efficient water management systems, conservation infrastructure, and advanced
University
monitoring technologies.
Major/Program: Bsc
In Agricultural And
Biosystems Engineering
The advent of smart cities and IoT will revolutionize engineering in Kenya, optimizing resource
management and enhancing urban living, which excites me greatly. Engineers play a vital role in
Current year of study:
4th Year
mitigating climate change and promoting sustainability by developing renewable energy systems
and sustainable infrastructure. By integrating sustainable practices, engineers can significantly
IEK Membership No.
S.13326
reduce environmental impact and contribute to Kenya's sustainable future.

74 Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

STUDENTS’ VOICES
As a mechanical engineering student in Kenya, my passion for engineering comes from a love for
mechanics and the desire to innovate. I dream of designing machines and energy solutions that
advance society. Our education system is strong but needs more hands-on learning and real-world
problem-solving. Kenya’s big infrastructure projects, like the Nairobi superhighway, the Lamu Port-
South Sudan-Ethiopia Transport (LAPSSET) Corridor and Standard Gauge Railway, are creating jobs
and boosting the economy. They show the important role engineers play in our country’s growth.
Sustainable energy is also key. Projects like the Garissa Solar Power Plant, Lake Turkana Wind Power,
the Olkaria geothermal energy and rural electrification highlight Kenya’s commitment to green
energy, which is crucial for me as a future engineer.

Water management is another challenge. Engineers can help by developing new conservation and
treatment technologies. I’m excited about smart cities and IoT, which can make our infrastructure
Name: Miheso Levis Maina
smarter and life better.
Age: 23

University: Technical Engineers must help fight climate change and promote sustainability. We can create eco-friendly
University of Mombasa
materials and systems to protect the environment. I’m ready to face the challenges ahead and use
Major/Program: Bsc my skills to make a positive impact on Kenya’s future.
Mechanical Engineering

Current Year of Study:

3rd year

One of the key attractions that draw me to civil engineering is its focus on problem-solving. Influenced
by personal role models in the engineering field, I pursued this career, drawn by its challenges and
opportunities. My university education has combined theoretical knowledge with some practical
experiences, although I believe more real-life day to day applications would enhance and improve
the learning experience.

A significant project to note is the LAPSSET corridor, which aims to boost transport, trade,
and economic growth while also impacting tourism, infrastructure, and job creation. Kenya's
commitment to sustainability, highlighted at the recent Africa Climate Summit in Nairobi, is evident
in the increasing use of solar power, presenting future engineers like me with opportunities in green
technology and research.
Name: John Njuguna
Macharia Water resource management remains a challenge in Kenya, particularly during dry seasons. As
Age: 21years
an engineer, I propose creating storage systems for water harvesting and distribution to address
scarcity and reduce climate change impacts. The rise of IoT and AI technologies also offers potential
University: Dedan Kimathi
University of Technology
improvements in the transportation sector through real-time traffic data and adaptive signals to
manage traffic and reduce emissions.
Program: Bachelor of
Science in Civil Engineering
Engineers play a crucial role in climate change mitigation, with sustainable initiatives such as
Year of Study: 4th year
renewable energy projects. By developing solar and wind power plants, we can reduce fossil fuel
consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to global climate justice efforts.

Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

75
 STUDENTS’ VOICES
My motivation for pursuing engineering stems from a passion for solving problems and developing
innovative solutions also the fact that growing up, I have watched my dad, enjoy and just transform
some broken machines into a moving car. The thrill of tackling technical challenges in energy
production, automotive engineering, and machining makes the field exciting and rewarding.

In Kenya, the current engineering education system is largely theoretical, limiting practical
application. To better prepare students, we must invest in hands-on projects, modern laboratories,
and stronger industry partnerships.

Major infrastructure projects like the Nairobi Expressway and the SGR are transforming Kenya's
development by improving connectivity and fostering economic growth. Additionally, Kenya's push
towards sustainable energy solutions, particularly in solar and wind power, is vital for reducing
Name: Wambui Gathirwa
Catherine carbon emissions and ensuring energy security.
Age: 20
Water resource management remains a significant challenge, but engineers can develop efficient
University: Dedan Kimathi
University of Technology
systems like rainwater harvesting and smart water grids. The advent of smart cities and IoT and
embedded systems will further revolutionize engineering, making urban and rural areas more
Major/Program: Bsc.
Mechanical Engineering
sustainable.
Current Year of Study:
3rd Year
Engineers play a crucial role in mitigating climate change by designing solutions that promote
energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. By addressing educational gaps and embracing
technological advancements, engineers can drive Kenya towards a prosperous and resilient future.
Being an energy and a climate justice advocate, I believe we can do better.

76 Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

 IEK Membership Report

T he IEK membership committee meets every month to

consider applications for membership of the various
classes received at the secretariat. The IEK council at its
Gender No.
366
Percentage
100%
525th and 526th council accepted the following members
under various membership categories as shown below; 525TH APPROVAL
NUMBER NUMBER FELLOW
MEMBERSHIP ACCEPTED- ACCEPTED- S/NO. NAME MEMBER NO.
TOTAL
CLASS 525TH 526TH 1.
Arif Ali Salim F.10750
COUNCIL COUNCIL
FELLOW 1 0 1 CORPORATE
CORPORATE 10 114 124 S/NO. NAME MEMBER NO.
GRADUATE 98 57 155 1.
Godfrey Wekesa Wanjala M.9747
GRADUATE 2.
Vincent Odhiambo Ahono M.7578
ENGINEERING 10 4 14
TECHNOLOGIST
3.
Solomon Nyambaga M.5919
Ayieko
GRADUATE
ENGINEERING 18 13 31
4.
Thelma Ntinyari Mukunga M.13339
TECHNICIAN 5.
Nicholas Kipkemboi Tanui M.10610
STUDENT 28 13 41 6.
John Mainge Kihori M.9321
TOTAL 165 201 366 7.
Daniel Muthuri Mwereria M.8584
8.
Edwin Wafula Sabuni M.11621
During the period, we had 1 member who transferred from
the class of Corporate to Fellow member and 124 from
9.
Grishon Odhiambo M.9316
Graduate to Corporate member. In addition, we had 155 Nyobange
graduates, 14 graduate engineering technologists, 31
10.
Brenda Chepchumba Koros M.7335
graduate engineering technicians and 41 students were
accepted as members. 526TH APPROVAL
Gender Data CORPORATE
Percentage Percentage NAME MEMBER NO.
Class Male Female
(Male) (Female) S/NO.
NAME MEMBER NO.
Fellow 1 0 100% 0% 1.
Andrew Oyiengo Kainga M.12161
Corporate 104 20 84% 16% 2.
Andronicos Ogambi Taffi M.8610
Graduate 124 31 80% 20% 3.
Anthony Kariuki Wamugunda M.10695
Graduate 4.
Antonny Gedion Mumina M.10696
Engineering 13 1 93% 7%
Technologist
5.
Ayub Senteu Murianka M.9453
Graduate
6.
Barasa Ongeti Jay M.11402
Engineering 30 1 97% 3% 7.
Barnice Mumbua Nzamba M.8514
Technician 8.
Benedict Wachira Mwangi M.13370
Student 28 13 68% 32% 9.
Benjamin Kiptai Cheseny M.9299
TOTAL 300 66 82% 18% 10.
Bildad Odhiambo Osire M.8415
11.
Boaz Andrew Wangwe M.11492
Summary 12.
Caleb Kibet Maritim M.5621
Gender No. Percentage 13.
Caleb Muli Muteti M.11348
Male 300 82% 14.
Calistus Wangila Wasike M.4318
Female 66 18% 15.
Calvince Otieno Onditi M.12172

Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

77
 NAME MEMBER NO. NAME MEMBER NO.
16.
Catherine Ndinda Kitela Ndeto M.6803 63.
Kevin Maraka Ndiema M.11218
17.
Cheserek Kimutai Julius M.6780 64.
Laban Kiprono Rop M.12974
18.
Collins Edward Maina M.8683 65.
Laureen Shivoko Muloli M.10254
19.
Collins Olaki Amayi M.8682 66.
Lawrence Otieno Ogada M.10337
20.
Cornelius K. Kapkeron M.8582 67.
Machio Malingu Michael M.13121
21.
Dan Mlango Mwawuda M.6755 68.
Magero Pius D Gumo M.7107
22.
Daniel Kariuki Mwangi M.11339 69.
Manasseh Ireri Ngai M.9433
23.
David Kibet Rop M.8536 70.
Manasses Kiplagat Too M.9522
24.
David Otieno Rege M.7262 71.
Mariari Manwa Kelvin M.8715
25.
Denis Omondi Opudo M.8955 72.
Mark Gakuya Kangangi M.9565
26.
Dennis Mbuthia Njoroge M.8587 73.
Maxwell Kipngetich Kogo M.10109
27.
Duncan Oduor Miyere M.8305 74.
Michael Libehe Khatete M.9382
28.
Eliab Bett Kimutai M.11888 75.
Mike Grifins Osare M.8992
29.
Eliud Njoroe Gitonga M.8019 76.
Mirriam Wangechi Kariuki M.6596
30.
Emmanuel Barasa Were Buluma M.3214 77.
Mohamud Ibrahim Mathope M.8601
31.
Emmanuel Kiptarus Kipruto M.8250 78.
Nancy Atieno Omanga M.10327
32.
Emmanuel Masaku Musyoka M.11078 79.
Ngosi Reuben Kyalo M.6091
33.
Emmanuel Seth Oluoch Alando M.11105 80.
Nicholas Kiptum Rotich M.10861
34.
Eugene Obunde Otwani M.8790 81.
Nyaga Alice Gatugi M.7640
35.
Evelyn Mumbua Mutula M.12970 82.
Obed Nyangoka Mogaka M.11777
36.
Felix Anayo Onduru M.7541 83.
Onyancha Orutwa Isaac M.6968
37.
Felix Brian Omondi M.8258 84.
Pamela Atieno Oyugi M.6590
38.
Festus Kiplagat Kiplaat M.12183 85.
Pamela Jelagat Chebon M.10286
39.
Fridah Nyaboke Ombati M.10339 86.
Paul Eshinali Washiali M.6869
40.
Geoffrey Oguk Ogumbe M.11098 87.
Paul Nginyo Njoroge M.11016
41.
Gregory Ivan Kiprop M.12888 88.
Peter Mosoti Nyarangi M.9960
42.
Ian Marekia Kinuthia M.9465 89.
Peter Muhoho Karanja M.9759
43.
Irene Atieno Oduor M.7835 90.
Purity Nduku Mwanza M.10693
44.
Isaac Maina Wanjiku M.11572 91.
Purity Nyakio Muthii M.10051
45.
James Barasa Imwen M.9555 92.
Samwel Omondi Oloo M.8654
46.
James Gichuki Mwaniki M.10017 93.
Sarah Wabosire Omai M.6924
47.
Jane Wambui Mwangi M.9257 94.
Selemia Nyatawa Opap M.8659
48.
John Kennedy Thotho Njenga M.8980 95.
Simon Kamau Mbogo M.11208
49.
John Ngugi Waithira M.6926 96.
Simon Mburu Njoroge M.2100
50.
John Njane Kamau M.9802 97.
Solomon Ngari Muthungu M.12031
51.
John Njogu Gatata M.7520 98.
Stanley Kinoti Kinoti M.12690
52.
John Wanjohi Muiyuro M.6534 99.
Stephen Ogola Oduor M.10182
53.
Joseph Otieno Weya M.6537 100.
Stephen Okoth Ogony M.11667
54.
Joshua Odongo Okello M.10309 101.
Steve Lipesa Pembere M.9204
55.
Joyce Ngina Musyoka M.6505 102.
Steve Ochieng Otieno M.7877
56.
Joyce Susan Liavuli Ogada M.7526 103.
Timothy Karanja Kariuki M.2958
57.
Judith Achieng Odhiambo M.9220 104.
Timothy Omollo Okello M.8437
58.
Judith Jebichii Makau M.9262 105.
Victor Ochieng’ Kungu M.7511
59.
Justus Kiprono Cheruiyot M.4669 106.
Victor Ochieng Opolo M.6181
60.
Kennedy Kibuchi Kimaru M.7270 107.
Vincent Akihanga Manyego M.9343
61.
Kenneth Muriithi Karaithe M.9264 108.
William Ponari Lengaka M.7865
62.
Kenneth Ochieng Adodi M.10657 109.
Wilson Nyakundi Omae M.7038

78 Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

 NAME MEMBER NO.
110.
Wyclife Otieno Omboga M.9053
111.
Wycliffe Okeyo Ochola M.9228
112.
Yvonne Mali Mutuli M.12039
113.
Zadock Kipkorir Rotich M.7171
114.
Zebidah Wanjiku Ndoro M.9526
The council invites Engineers and
affiliate firms to apply for membership
in the various membership classes,
kindly follow the link members.
iekenya.org to register or scan the QR
Code below to apply for membership;

Engineering in Kenya Magazine Issue 18

79
 Be visible, grow your Brand
Advertise with Us!

I SSUE 017

I SS UE 015 PUBLISHED BY THE INSTITUTION OF ENGINEERS OF KENYA I May 2024

PUBLISHED BY THE INSTITUTION OF ENGINEERS OF KENYA I JANUARY 2024

Engineering in Kenya magazine is published by the Institution of

Engineers of Kenya (IEK).
The magazine has a wide audience among engineering professionals
and beyond, including stakeholders and policy makers in both public
and private corporate entities. Advertising with us will bring you to the
attention of these stakeholders, and give you the opportunity to grow
your market. Grab this opportunity in our next issue scheduled to be
published in September 2024 and tap into this rich audience. Our print
run is 3,000 hard copies and over 100,000 in digital circulation,
bi-monthly. Email [email protected].
 Kenya National
Highways Authority
Quality Highways, Better Connections

In line with the mandate to manage, develop, rehabilitate

and maintain National Trunk Roads, KeNHA has
continously improved effectiveness and sustainability of
National Trunk Roads across the country in a bid to meet
expectation in the sector.
Changamwe Interchange

Kenol - Sagana - Marua (A2) Road

Nairobi Expressway

Kenol - Sagana (A2) Road

For all your enquiries email us on: [email protected] Toll Free Line: 0800-211-244 Customer Care: 0700 423 606 #Road Safety Starts With You
@KeNHAKenya Website: www.kenha.co.ke Kenya National Highways Authority
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