Institution of Engineers of Kenya: Engineers should lead key ministries following cabinet dissolution

Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) President Eng. Shammah Kiteme CE, FIEK. [Courtesy,X]

In a decisive response to President Ruto's recent dissolution of the cabinet, the Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) has called for the strategic appointment of engineering professionals to lead key ministries.

This recommendation was made by Eng. Shammah Kiteme, CE, FIEK, the President of IEK, who emphasized the critical role of engineers in driving Kenya's economic transformation.

In a press release, IEK highlighted the importance of specialized knowledge and technical expertise in effectively managing ministries where engineering is a primary function.

Eng. Kiteme specifically advocated for the leadership of engineers in the following ministries: Roads and Transportation, Lands, Public Works, Housing and Urban Development, Water, Sanitation and Irrigation, Agriculture and Livestock Development, Energy and Petroleum, Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs.

"The government's appointment of engineers to these positions will ensure that these ministries are guided by individuals with the specialized knowledge and skills required to effectively implement and manage complex engineering functions," stated Eng. Kiteme.

"This move will be pivotal in fulfilling the diverse roles of engineers in both public and private sectors, supporting the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA)."

IEK, as the learned society of the engineering profession, plays a crucial role in collaborating with national and international institutions to apply engineering solutions for the benefit of humanity.

With over 12,000 members, including engineers from various government institutions, consultancies, contractors, educators, and manufacturers, IEK stands as a significant voice in the engineering community.

The institution recognized President Ruto's commitment to Kenya's economic transformation, particularly in critical areas such as manufacturing, value addition, agriculture and food security, agro-processing, MSME development, affordable housing, enhanced healthcare access, and the Digital Superhighway.

Engineers, according to IEK, are integral to driving these initiatives by providing the technical expertise and innovative solutions necessary for sustainable progress.

Eng. Kiteme also proposed the formation of an engineering function to be housed at State House to offer advisory services on all engineering aspects.

Additionally, he recommended that engineering attaches be placed at Kenya's embassies and missions abroad to integrate infrastructure and engineering into the country's diplomatic efforts.

"As the government pursues her vision and aspirations, engineers are dedicated to fulfilling their roles in supporting Kenya's development objectives," added Eng. Kiteme.

"We are confident that through the strategic appointment of qualified professionals and a strong partnership, Kenya will achieve its ambitious development goals."

IEK remains committed to collaborating with the government, offering full support and expertise to drive Kenya's economic transformation.

The institution believes that engineering leadership in key ministries will significantly contribute to the country's progress and development.