IET-K calls for full implementation of Engineering Technology Act 2016 as it marks 10 years of existence

The Institution of Engineering Technology of Kenya (IET-K) is demanding a fully constituted and operational Board and full implementation of the Engineering Technology Act of 2016, saying their absence weakens its institutional framework, which is necessary to deliver its mandate.

Speaking today in Eldoret during its 10-year celebrations, IET-K’s President Bibiye Mahmoud made a rallying call to relevant State agencies such as the Public Service Commission (PSC) to speedily address any outstanding processes required for the appointment of the Board and commencement of its full statutory functions, “so that the profession can operate within the robust regulatory framework envisaged by Parliament.”

“I call upon the Government to expeditiously facilitate the appointment and constitution of the Engineering Technology Board as provided for under the Engineering Technology Act, 2016, and ensure its full operationalisation,” she said.

Vowing to push for equal rights and career justice for the country’s engineering technology professionals, Ms. Mahmoud further called for a multi-stakeholder engagement between the Government, industry, universities, TVET institutions, regulators and professional bodies, if the sector is to fully play a significant role in the country’s long-term industrialisation and technological development agenda.

“This is not simply an institutional matter. It is a matter of public safety, professional accountability, quality assurance and national development…Kenya is investing heavily in infrastructure, manufacturing, energy, housing, digital systems and other development programmes.

These investments require competent technical professionals not only at the design stage, but throughout the entire project lifecycle,” said Bibiye in her address to the media on Wednesday 19.

Adding that engineering technologists, technicians, artisans and craftspeople were essential to the implementation, installation, testing, commissioning, operation, maintenance and improvement of the infrastructure and technological systems on which the country’s economy depends.

In her acceptance and assumption of office address, in November 2025, Mahmoud reiterated the importance of implementing the Act to the latter if the profession’s regulatory body, the Kenya Engineering Technology Registration Board (KETRB), is to function optimally in its mandate, which also includes registration of engineering technology professionals and compliance.

“For nine years, the Engineering Technology Act has existed more on paper than in practice. KETRB has been denied the staff, resources, and institutional support required to fulfill its mandate,” said Bibiye at the time.

Adding that the new council would also lobby for proper government funding to enable the Board to carry out registration, regulation, and compliance “as the law requires.”

“A functioning regulator is the foundation of professional dignity. We will make this our frontline agenda,” she said, a message that was also echoed by the outgoing President George Thumbi.