The National Construction Authority on Wednesday, 17th July 2024 launched the National Building Code 2024 at a ceremony presided over by the Principal Secretary for Public Works, Mr. Joel Arumonyang. The Code was published on March 1st 2024 as Legal Notice no. 47, repealing the Local Government (Adoptive By-Laws) (Building) Order of 1968.
The launch of the Code marks a major milestone for the construction industry, 56 years after the passing of the previous one, and paving way for a progressive, dynamic, and stakeholder-driven guiding document. The implementation of the Code 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. The Code also has provisions for multi-hazard resilient designs, sustainable green construction practices, digital connectivity, liquid petroleum gas (LPG) connections into buildings and disaster risk management on construction sites. The Code will also promote innovation of new materials and technologies that will benefit the development and growth of the construction sector, especially the affordable housing programme.
However, a section of stakeholders in Kenya\’s construction industry have called for a rejection of the National Building Code 2024, citing significant exclusion and discrimination against certain professions. In a press briefing by various associations, including the Association of Construction Managers of Kenya (ACMK), the Interior Designers Association of Kenya (IDAK), the Architectural Association of Kenya construction managers, landscape architects and interior designers chapter, the group highlighted a two-decade struggle for recognition of the professions of Construction Project Management, Construction Management, Interior Design, and Landscape Architecture.
The group said that the NCA\’s rationale for this exclusion and a lack of regulation is flawed, given that the government, responsible for both the accreditation and regulation, has failed to fulfill its regulatory role.
The associations are now demanding the immediate withdrawal and amendment of the National Building Code 2024 to ensure inclusivity, failing which they will take legal action.