The Kenyan construction industry has long been a key driver of the country’s GDP. According to data from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics, the industry experienced a market size growth of $15.6 billion in 2023 and is projected to achieve an average annual growth rate of over 5% between 2025 and 2028. To unlock the sector& full potential, a regulatory framework was necessary to balance safety, health, quality, sustainability, and structural integrity in construction. The new National Building Code 2024 serves as a crucial framework to ensure comprehensive compliance within the industry.

The Building Code was published as Legal Notice No. 47 on March 1, 2024, and officially launched on July 17, 2024. It replaces the outdated Local Government (Adoptive By-Laws) (Building) Order of 1968, marking a significant milestone in the construction industry. The transition period lasted one year, and the Code came into force on March 1 st , 2025. Before its enforcement, there was a need for sensitization among critical stakeholders and the general public to create awareness, facilitate onboarding, and encourage industry stakeholders to take ownership of the Building Code 2024 and its processes.

The building code sensitization and civic education program commenced in the second week of March 2025. The primary objective of this program is to provide a platform for construction professionals and industry stakeholders to deepen their understanding of the new building code, its provisions, and its practical application in daily construction activities. These forums aim to Raise awareness about the importance of the Building Code in ensuring safety, health, and environmental sustainability; Educate stakeholders on key provisions of the building code affecting construction practices, including structural design, materials, and safety protocols; Address common challenges and misconceptions related to the implementation of building codes in the construction industry and Promote a culture of compliance with national and international construction standards.

In phase one of these sensitization and civic education programs, the Authority conducted a series of workshops in selected counties, including Nairobi, Uasin Gishu, Garissa, Isiolo, Kitui, Kakamega, Embu, Kajiado, Kisumu, Mombasa,Kisii,Nyeri and Nakuru. These workshops were open to a broad range of construction industry stakeholders and the general public. The forums provided a platform for key stakeholders, particularly county government representatives, to share their views and support the implementation of the Code for a sustainable construction industry. County government officials and other stakeholders demonstrated immense support by attending in large numbers and encouraging the public to adhere to the Code in order to foster the development of the construction industry and the country as a whole.

In Uasin Gishu, Hon. Edward Sawe, CECM for Lands, Physical Planning, Housing, and Urban Development, represented H.E Dr. Jonathan Bii, EGH, at the forum. Uasin Gishu County Commissioner, Dr. Eddyson H. Nyale, and NCA North Rift Regional Coordinator, QS Lucas Adwera, were also present. In Garissa, Deputy County Commissioner Mr. Sebastian Okiring graced the occasion, with speakers including Public Works Ag. Chief Architect Arch. David Waititu and NCA Coast Regional Coordinator, Eng. Raphael Mwenga. These engagements brought together key stakeholders to discuss compliance, safety, and sustainable construction practices.

The Kitui forum was led by the Regional Coordinator for the Lower Eastern Region, Arch. Cyprian Kiprop, alongside the Coast Regional Coordinator, Eng. Raphael Mwenga. Presentations on various aspects of the Code were delivered by Public Works Ag. Chief Architect Arch. David Waititu, Mr. Joseph Ptoo, Mr. Kendrix Wandera, and Eng. Gilbert Terer. In Isiolo County, Deputy County Commissioner Mr. Christopher Siele graced the forum, with the NCA team led by Upper Eastern Regional Coordinator, Eng. Eric Okello. The presentations covered key aspects of the Building Code, including its introduction and explanatory notes, external and internal building layouts, materials and elements, structural design and associated works, quality and wellness in buildings, internal and external service systems, and safety considerations for both interior and exterior spaces.

The second part of phase one of the program took place this week, covering Mombasa and Kisii counties on March 18, Nyeri on March 19, and Nakuru on March 20, 2025.

Present in the Nyanza South Chapter,Kisii county include NCA Directors Eng. Catherine Munyi, Qs. Mutuku Mutinda, Peter Musango, and John Mokomoni. Also in attendance were Kitutu Central ACC Andrew Ochieng (representing Kisii County Commissioner Joseph Kibet), County Roads, Infrastructure & Public Works CECM Dr. Margaret Obaga, and County KNCCI Chairperson Benjamin Onkoba.

In Mombasa the County Commissioner, Mr. Mohammed Noor, represented by Mr. Joshua Muthoka, Coast Region ACC graced the occasion. In his speech, he emphasized NGAO’s role in driving grassroots-level construction reforms. Also present were NCA Board Chair Adv. Mercy Okiro, the NCA management team, and representatives from the State Department of Public Works.

The Kiambu County forum was hosted by Eng. Julius Muchiri, Regional Coordinator, and graced by Ms. Salome Muthoni Wainana, CECM, Ministry of Lands, Housing, Physical Planning & Urban Development. Also present were NCA Directors Ms. Josephine Kanyi, Eng. Gilbert Arasa, Qs. Cassius Kusienya, and Arch. Aida Munano, HoD, School of Architecture at Kenyatta University. The NCA management team was led by Eng. Chrispus Ndinyo, GM, Construction Research, and Business Development & Capacity Building.

Ultimately, phase one of these programs culminated with Central Rift region, Nakuru County. Present were NCA Directors Eng. Catherine Munyi, Arch. Florence Nyole, Qs. Mutuku Mutinda, and John Mokomoni. Also present were officials from Nakuru County Infrastructure department. The event drew a total of 342 participants from different sectors.

This nationwide initiative aimed at ensuring that government agencies,county governments and industry stakeholders continuously enforce and implement the Building Code to keep pace with technological advancements and evolving environmental conditions. The initiative also seeks to enhance public safety, reduce instances of substandard construction, and promote a culture of accountability within the industry. Through ongoing engagement and enforcement, the National Construction Authority strives to build a resilient and sustainable construction sector that meets the needs of a growing population while upholding the highest standards of quality and safety.

Compiled by Ms.Milkah Achar