The Association of Consulting Engineers of Kenya

Consulting engineers play a key role in the planning, design, and delivery of critical infrastructure that drives national progress. Their contribution to our development agenda continues to be vital as we work to build resilient systems and improve service delivery for all Kenyans. Today, I held a consultative meeting with the Association of Consulting Engineers of Kenya (ACEK) at Maji House, Nairobi. We reviewed the capacity of local and younger engineers and the need to mentor them through a structured programme so that the profession can continuously renew itself. We also examined the business models of consulting firms in Kenya and the imperative for these firms to keep growing in order to secure credibility, particularly in the local market. A further focus was the quality of work by engineers on active project sites, and how substandard workmanship and reduced quantities of work contribute to non-revenue water. Poor execution on the ground later manifests as leaks, losses, and unreliable service. I underscored the role of ACEK, and of engineers at every level, in policy making. Sound engineering advice must inform how we plan, regulate, and deliver water, sanitation, and irrigation infrastructure. Strengthening local consulting capacity, raising standards on site, and reducing non-revenue water are central to water security and to securing value for public investment.