By John Kariuki
The National Construction Authority (NCA) today took a significant step toward revolutionizing Kenya’s construction sector by presenting the National Building Code 2024 to Deputy Governors during the Deputy Governors’ Caucus held in Naivasha.
The high-level session brought together deputy county leaders from across the nation and provided a strategic platform for discussing how the new Code will guide construction standards, ensuring safety, sustainability, and resilience in Kenya’s built environment. The National Government was led by the Principal Secretary State department of Public Works Mr Joel Arumonyang and the National Construction Authority Board led by Chair Ms Mercy Okiro
Speaking during the engagement, Eng. Maurice Akech, MBS, Executive Director of the NCA, described the Code as a catalyst for national development.
> “The Code creates a regulatory platform that fosters collaboration and compliance of all stakeholders in the construction industry, both nationally and at the county level,” he stated.
The National Building Code 2024 is a comprehensive framework that aligns Kenya’s construction regulations with global best practices while also catering to the country’s specific development needs. It introduces clear standards on structural safety, fire prevention, energy efficiency, environmental conservation, and accessibility, among others.
County governments are central to the Code’s successful implementation. The NCA emphasized its commitment to supporting counties through capacity building, technical assistance, and policy harmonization, ensuring that the regulatory reforms translate into safer and more efficient construction practices on the ground.
With Kenya’s rapid urbanization and infrastructural growth, the Code offers a timely solution to challenges such as unregulated developments, building collapses, and environmental degradation. It also enhances accountability by streamlining licensing requirements and setting clear expectations for contractors, engineers, and developers.
Deputy Governors who attended the session expressed their appreciation for the NCA’s proactive engagement and pledged to work closely with the Authority to roll out the Code across all 47 counties.
This engagement marks a pivotal moment in the journey toward a safer, greener, and more accountable construction industry, where national and county governments work in tandem to uphold quality standards and protect public interest.
