By John Kariuki
Mombasa, Kenya – Cabinet Secretary for Lands, Public Works, Housing & Urban Development, Hon. Alice Wahome, today officially opened the Annual Multi-Sectoral Agency Consultative Committee (MSACC) Retreat, bringing together key stakeholders to discuss strategies for safer construction practices in Kenya.
Established in 2015 in response to the alarming collapse of numerous buildings, MSACC is a collaborative platform uniting various sectors in a shared mission to promote safety, equality, and progress within the construction industry. Over the years, the committee has played a critical role in enhancing regulatory compliance, improving building standards, and fostering a culture of accountability across the sector.
This year’s retreat is themed “Multi-Sectoral Interventions for Safer Construction Practices in Kenya.” The discussions aim to address both persistent and emerging challenges in the industry, emphasizing the need for innovation, adaptation, and stronger collaboration among regulatory bodies, industry players, and policymakers. The retreat serves as a vital forum for stakeholders to evaluate current policies, share best practices, and reinforce measures to prevent structural failures that threaten lives and livelihoods.
During her address, CS Alice Wahome underscored the importance of collective responsibility in ensuring that Kenya’s built environment remains safe, sustainable, and resilient. She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening enforcement mechanisms, streamlining construction processes, and promoting transparency in the sector.
A key highlight of the event was the relaunch of Ujenzi Magazine, a critical platform for disseminating information from the State Department of Public Works. The magazine will serve as an important resource for industry stakeholders, providing insights into policy updates, best practices, and technological advancements shaping Kenya’s construction landscape.
The retreat was graced by key industry leaders, including the Principal Secretary for Public Works & MSACC Chair, Hon. J. Arumonyang, CBS, National Construction Authority Executive Director, Eng. Maurice Akech, CBS, Machakos County Deputy Governor, H.E. Hon. Francis Mwangangi, and board chairpersons from various institutions.
As Kenya continues to experience rapid urbanization and infrastructure growth, the role of MSACC in fostering a safer and more sustainable construction industry remains paramount. The retreat serves as a powerful reminder that through collaboration, adherence to best practices, and a commitment to excellence, the country can build safer, stronger, and more resilient structures for generations to come.
Together, let us continue to champion integrity, safety, and innovation in Kenya’s construction sector.