•Crackdown on Unqualified Engineers to Prevent Structural Failures
Mombasa County is ramping up efforts to enforce strict building safety regulations to curb the rising cases of structural failures caused by unqualified engineers.
In a bold move, the county government has urged property developers to only engage engineers certified and registered by the Engineers Board of Kenya (EBK) to guarantee compliance with safety standards and prevent future building collapses.
Speaking on the matter, Mombasa County Executive Committee (CEC) Member for Transport and Infrastructure, Daniel Manyala, emphasized the critical role of certified engineers in the construction approval process.
He warned that a failure to comply with engineering standards had resulted in tragic building collapses in the past, often due to the involvement of unqualified personnel.
Stronger Regulations to Enhance Structural Integrity
Manyala reiterated the county’s commitment to enforcing engineering standards rigorously and taking action against individuals or firms attempting to bypass the required procedures.
“Strict compliance with engineering regulations is not just a legal requirement but a matter of public safety,” Manyala stated.
“We will ensure that all buildings in Mombasa meet the highest standards to protect lives and investments.”
The Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) Coast Branch Chair, Otieno Arowo, echoed Manyala’s sentiments, stressing that the use of unqualified engineers posed a significant threat to the construction industry.
“While buildings collapse for various reasons, one of the key factors is the engagement of unqualified personnel who lack the necessary expertise to guarantee structural integrity,” Arowo explained.
Curbing Fraudulent Certifications in Engineering
Arowo also highlighted the growing concern over fraudulent engineering certifications, where individuals present fake academic papers to secure construction projects.
He urged developers and the public to verify the credentials of engineers before hiring them.
“Developers should not rely solely on academic papers, as cases of fraudulent certifications have become increasingly common. To ensure credibility, they should refer to the Engineers Board of Kenya’s official website, which contains a comprehensive register of certified professional engineers,” he advised.
By selecting only registered professionals, developers can be assured that their projects will meet established building codes and safety standards, reducing the risk of structural failures.
A Commitment to Sustainable Urban Development
Beyond enforcement, Manyala also recognized the importance of mentorship in producing the next generation of highly skilled engineers.
He commended initiatives by engineering institutions that encourage young professionals to uphold ethical and professional standards in their practice.
As Mombasa continues to expand, ensuring sustainable urban development remains a priority.
The county government has pledged to partner with the Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) to support professional development and mentorship for aspiring engineers.
Conclusion: A Step Towards Safer Cities
The crackdown on rogue engineers and unregulated construction practices marks a significant step towards safer urban development in Mombasa.
By enforcing strict compliance with building regulations, verifying engineering credentials, and fostering professional mentorship, the county is working to prevent avoidable disasters and create a more resilient infrastructure.
With authorities tightening safety measures, the onus is now on developers, engineers, and the public to uphold these standards and ensure that every building constructed in Mombasa is safe, durable, and legally compliant.
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