The National Construction Authority (NCA), on 14th July 2024, launched the Training and Sensitization Program of the National Building Code 2024 at a ceremony presided over by Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Lands, Public Works, Housing, and Urban Development, Hon. Alice Wahome, EGH. The event was attended by the Principal Secretary of Public Works, Mr. Joel Arumonyang,CBS ; Mercy Okiro, Chair of the NCA Board of Directors; Eng. Maurice Akech, NCA Executive Director; Hon. Johana Ngeno, Chair of the National Assembly Committee for Housing, Urban Planning, and Public Works; as well as Board Members, representatives from various government institutions, and professional bodies affiliated with the construction industry.

The launch of the Training and Sensitization Program for the National Building Code 2024 marks a pivotal step in shaping Kenya’s future. This initiative reaffirms the government’s commitment to fostering a safer, more sustainable, and inclusive built environment—a cornerstone for the nation’s progress under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).

In her remarks, Hon. Alice Wahome reiterated the government’s commitment to harmonizing national and county-level regulations, addressing existing policy gaps, and integrating the Building Code into Kenya’s regulatory frameworks. This includes creating a streamlined approval process for construction permits and inspections.

Eng. Maurice Akech emphasized the Authority’s role in implementing the Building Code, including the coordination of nationwide rollouts of the training and sensitization programs. He stated that the Authority is dedicated to ensuring all stakeholders are fully onboarded and have a clear understanding of the Code, including its contents and the specified roles for each stakeholder.

Collaborative governance is essential for the effective implementation of policies and frameworks, particularly in fostering accountability and sustainability. The success of the National Building Code 2024 hinges on a collaborative approach between National and County Governments. While the National Government spearheads policy development—including the delineation of functions outlined in the recent gazette notice—Counties will play a pivotal role in implementing the Code locally. Together, this partnership will ensure adherence and efficacy in every corner of the nation.

PS Joel Arumonyang noted that the State Department of Public Works has already commenced internal sensitization efforts, engaging engineers, architects, and quantity surveyors. He further highlighted that the National Building Code 2024 now serves as a critical training tool in universities and vocational training institutions. This means that new professionals entering the industry will be well-equipped to transform construction practices and contribute to economic growth.

Additionally, Ms. Mercy Okiro, Chair of the NCA Board, remarked that sensitization and public awareness are not just civic responsibilities but also statutory obligations. The transition period for the commencement of the National Building Code 2024 began on March 1st, 2024, and will last for one year. Accordingly, the National Building Code will take effect on March 1st, 2025, after which all provisions of the Code will be enforced.

The National Building Code 2024 is more than a regulatory document; it is a transformative tool that sets the foundation for a resilient, innovative, and orderly construction sector. It will serve as a blueprint for ensuring safety, sustainability, and inclusivity throughout Kenya.

The next steps in the implementation of the National Building Code 2024 include the publication of the Hazard Maps as prescribed in the Code and thorough public education and sensitization on the Building Code, its application, and implementation across the country. These efforts aim to ensure full compliance moving forward.

Article by Sharon Atieno Otieno, Senior Corporate Communications Officer