The National Construction Authority (NCA), in collaboration with the Kenya Property Developers Association (KPDA), hosted a half-day workshop on the National Building Code 2024 at the KCB Leadership Center in Karen, Nairobi, on Thursday, October 24, 2024. The workshop, themed "Code Compliance: The Developers and Contractors Guide to the National Building Code 2024," was targeted at developers, contractors, and industry professionals, aiming to provide critical insights into the new code, which will come into full effect in March 2025.

The Chief Guest, NCA Executive Director Eng. Maurice Akech, MBS, was represented by the General Manager of Registration & Compliance, Qs. Susan Rutto, who was accompanied by the Manager of Compliance & Enforcement, Arch. Stephen Mwilu, and NCA Corporation Secretary and Head of Legal, Adv. Samson Lukoba. The KPDA team was led by Chief Executive Officer Vincent Mwango and Director Alex Waiharo, CEO of Jabez Properties, along with other invited guests.

The workshop featured key presentations from the NCA leadership, including a comprehensive overview of the Building Code 2024, along with discussions on the advantages of adhering to the National Building Code. The emphasis was placed on how compliance can enhance project quality, reduce legal risks, and improve public safety.

In her remarks, Qs. Susan Rutto noted that the Building Code 2024 has incorporated local knowledge and materials, emphasizing that sustainable construction is not solely dependent on importing foreign standards but also on adapting them to the local context. She reiterated that the successful implementation of the code will require a multi-sectoral approach, even though the Authority is spearheading the process.

The code aims to set higher standards for safety, environmental sustainability, and inclusivity, aligning with Kenya's commitment to a sustainable built environment. "We are all aware that climate change is real, and we must adapt to new practices that are sustainable in order to ensure resilient construction products against changing weather conditions," said Adv. Samson Lukoba.

The core objective of the Code is to prescribe improved standards in building design, construction, and maintenance that reflect best practices, promoting quality, safety, health, and acceptable environmental norms. The Code also fosters collaboration and compliance among stakeholders in the construction industry. This workshop provided a platform for industry professionals to engage with the new code, discuss implementation challenges, and explore compliance best practices. With the involvement of regulatory authorities and professional bodies, attendees learned strategies to enhance project quality and safety, ultimately promoting a safer construction environment across Kenya.