The Government and the National Construction Authority (NCA) have rolled out nationwide stakeholder sensitisation programmes of the National Building Code 2024, a groundbreaking framework set to revolutionize the construction industry.
Published as Legal Notice No. 47 on March 1, 2024, this code replaces the outdated 1968 Local Government (Adoptive By-Laws) Order, bringing modern standards to building design, construction, and maintenance.
Nearly six decades after the 1968 Building Code, we stand at the threshold of transformative change with the new Building Code, which will come into effect this year on March 1.
Principal Secretary for Public Works Joel Arumonyang stated that these sensitisation programmes are designed to empower professionals, contractors, and the public with the knowledge required to implement the code effectively, focusing on stakeholder engagement and compliance.
Speaking during a sensitisation exercise in Nairobi, Arumonyang said such efforts will foster a culture of compliance and excellence, minimising structural failures and enhancing public confidence in Kenya’s construction sector.
“Extensive training programmes and public awareness campaigns will ensure all stakeholders, including contractors, site supervisors, and construction workers, understand their role and responsibilities for effective implementation of the code,” he said.
The PS said the Building Code 2024, a set of regulations anchored under the National Construction Authority Act, embodies the government’s commitment to fostering innovation, ensuring safety, and enhancing sustainability in Kenya’s built environment.
“By addressing the limitations of the 1968 Code, which focused narrowly on conventional materials, the new code incorporates provisions for sustainable materials, modern technologies, and disaster resilience,” he said.
He explained its implementation will transform how construction is carried out in the country by providing for an up-to-date framework and standards for planning, design, approval, implementation, maintenance, and demolition of buildings.
Additionally, he noted the Code ushers in a new era of construction standards that gives provision for multi-hazard designs, sustainable green construction practices, digital connectivity, liquid petroleum gas connections into buildings, and disaster risk management on construction sites.
“The Code will minimise the harmful effects on human health resulting from the use of building methods, products, design, or building work and provide for universal access standards to all types of buildings,” he said.
The PS observed that the Code is integral to the government’s Affordable Housing Program, which aims to provide safe and decent homes for low- and middle-income households.
“By aligning these initiatives with the Code, we reaffirm our dedication to creating safe, resilient, adaptable, and inclusive communities while ensuring the longevity and adaptability of the properties,” said the PS.
“The code will also preserve buildings of significant cultural, historical, or heritage value and provide for fire safety by limiting the extent and effects of the spread of fire,” he added.
He opined that its mandatory five-year review cycle ensures Kenya remains at the forefront of global construction trends, driving job creation and fostering a digitally integrated construction ecosystem.
The PS stated that while the National Government spearheads policy development, counties will play a pivotal role in implementing the code locally.
“The success of the Code hinges on a collaborative approach between National and County Governments,” said the PS, adding that together, they will ensure adherence and efficacy in every corner of the nation.
He further said the Code now becomes a critical training tool in the universities and vocational training institutions; this means that the new crop of professionals coming into the industry will be fully equipped to transform
Executive Director for the National Construction Authority, Eng. Maurice Akech, on his part, emphasized the Code’s core objective of promoting quality, safety, health, and sustainability in the built environment.
“The revised Code aligns with international best practices and sets a benchmark for construction excellence,” he said, adding that the previous building code dates back to 1968, making it inadequate, lacking effective controls and enforcement mechanisms.
Akech said some of the key features of the Code include ensuring qualified professionals manage design, construction, supervision, and inspection, advocating for sustainable building practices that enhance durability and resilience.
He reiterated the importance of collaboration in ensuring the building code becomes a “living guide to action” rather than a static document.
“Together, we must embrace the spirit of cooperation to achieve a safe and sustainable built environment,” he said, adding that the revised code aligns with international best practices and sets a benchmark for construction excellence.
He said the Authority remains committed to ensuring all stakeholders are fully on board and have a good understanding of what the Code is, what it entails, and the specified roles of each stakeholder.
“I urge all industry stakeholders to align with the Code and contribute to its implementation,” he said, adding that this collective effort will ensure that Kenya’s construction sector meets global standards while addressing the needs of its citizens.
By Anita Omwenga