- Stakeholders have welcomed the proposed Engineering Technology Rules, 2026, while calling for amendments to several provisions.
- Participants want more flexible licensing requirements, lower fees for graduates and fairer renewal procedures.
- The Government says views collected during public participation will inform the final regulations.
Stakeholders have welcomed the Government’s proposal to strengthen regulation of engineering technology professionals but have called for amendments to several provisions in the Draft Engineering Technology (Registration, Licensing and Compliance) Rules, 2026.
The proposals were presented during a public participation forum held at Kakamega Social Hall, where representatives from universities, technical institutions and professional organisations commended the Ministry of Roads and Transport for developing a comprehensive legal framework while recommending changes to make the regulations more inclusive.
Law Reform Counsel Nadi Mohammed said the proposed regulations seek to strengthen professional standards while protecting the public.
“These regulations establish a comprehensive framework governing registration, licensing, compliance and professional conduct within the engineering technology profession,” he said.
He explained that applicants would be required to undertake competence examinations administered by the Kenya Engineering Technology Registration Board before qualifying for registration.
“Professional competence assessments will ensure only qualified practitioners are licensed to offer engineering technology services,” he added.
Stakeholders propose amendments
Participants questioned provisions imposing penalties for delayed licence renewal, arguing that unemployed professionals and practitioners unable to work because of illness should not be subjected to punitive charges.
They also urged the Government to reduce subscription fees for newly qualified graduates and introduce more flexible licence renewal arrangements similar to those adopted by professional associations.
The forum also discussed concerns affecting Bachelor of Technology graduates.
Officials from the Engineers Board of Kenya clarified that several Bachelor of Science engineering programmes are now formally recognised.
Stakeholders further proposed the introduction of anonymous reporting mechanisms together with stronger investigative powers for the Kenya Engineering Technology Registration Board to improve compliance while protecting whistleblowers.
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The Ministry of Roads and Transport assured participants that all views collected during the public participation exercise would be considered before the regulations are finalised.
“Public participation is intended to ensure the final regulations reflect stakeholder concerns while promoting professionalism and accountability,” the ministry said.
By Kimutai Langat
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