By John Kariuki
As the world comes together to celebrate World Engineering Day 2025 on March 4, the focus shifts to the crucial role engineers play in shaping a more sustainable, innovative, and resilient future. This global event serves as a recognition of the immense contributions of engineers in addressing some of the most pressing challenges of our time, including climate change, infrastructure development, clean energy, and technological advancement. With this year’s theme, “Unleashing the Power of Engineers to Advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” the day highlights the need for engineers to drive transformative solutions that align with the United Nations’ vision for a better world.
Eng. Maurice Akech, the Executive Director of the National Construction Authority (NCA), has emphasized the importance of engineering in achieving global development goals. He acknowledges the pivotal role that engineers play in advancing sustainable solutions and calls for greater recognition of their contributions. According to him, World Engineering Day 2025 is about putting engineering in the global spotlight and showcasing how engineers are leading the way in the effort to meet the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. He highlights that engineers are responsible for creating the infrastructure that supports modern society, from transport systems and energy networks to water and sanitation projects that improve millions of lives.
This year’s celebration is particularly significant for Kenya, as the country has made major strides in the regulatory space to support engineering excellence and sustainable development. One of the landmark achievements in this regard is the introduction of the National Building Code 2024, which became effective on March 1, 2025. This comprehensive regulatory framework sets clear guidelines for construction standards, safety measures, and sustainability practices, ensuring that Kenya’s built environment is modern, resilient, and aligned with global best practices. Eng. Akech sees this as a monumental step in ensuring quality assurance, enhancing safety in construction, and fostering sustainable urban development across the country.
Eng. Akech also highlights engineering’s critical role in the Kenyan government’s agenda on affordable housing and the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). Engineers have been at the forefront of designing and implementing cost-effective, sustainable housing solutions that align with the government’s vision of providing decent and affordable homes to millions of Kenyans. Through innovative construction technologies, including alternative building materials, modular housing designs, and green energy solutions, engineers have been instrumental in ensuring that the housing sector meets both economic and environmental sustainability goals.
Beyond housing, engineering is a key driver of the BETA agenda, particularly in infrastructure development, industrialization, and job creation. From expanding road networks and upgrading public utilities to enhancing energy efficiency and digital transformation, engineers are playing a pivotal role in shaping Kenya’s economic landscape. Eng. Akech reiterates that scientific creativity must be at the service of humanity, ensuring that engineering solutions remain relevant and effective in solving global challenges.
However, he notes that innovation alone is not enough. To be truly impactful, engineering must also be open, inclusive, and collaborative. This means breaking barriers in the profession, fostering partnerships between different sectors, and ensuring that engineering solutions benefit all, regardless of geographic location or economic status.
Beyond being a celebration, World Engineering Day serves as a platform to raise awareness of the vital role that engineering plays in everyday life. From the roads and bridges that connect communities to the technological advancements that power industries, engineering remains the backbone of modern civilization. Eng. Akech recognizes that for engineering to continue thriving, there must be an effort to inspire and support the next generation of engineers. He calls on educational institutions, governments, and industry stakeholders to invest in engineering education, research, and innovation to ensure that future engineers are well-equipped to address emerging challenges.
As the world observes this important day, Eng. Akech’s message is a reminder that engineering is not just about building structures; it is about building a better future. He urges engineers to embrace collaboration and creativity while remaining committed to sustainability and inclusivity. The contributions of engineers are shaping the world in profound ways, and as we celebrate World Engineering Day 2025, it is crucial to acknowledge and appreciate their dedication, ingenuity, and impact. Eng. Akech’s vision is clear: through innovation, inclusivity, and a commitment to global progress, engineers will continue to drive the world toward a more sustainable and prosperous future.