Eldoret: The Institution of Engineering Technology of Kenya (IETK) leaders, led by President Bibiye Mahmoud Juma, have underscored the crucial role of engineering technology in transforming Kenya’s agricultural sector. This emphasis comes as the country aims to increase food production and reduce its dependency on imports.
According to Kenya News Agency, mechanization has been identified as essential in shifting agriculture from subsistence to a more modern, productive, and commercially viable sector. Dr. Cecilia Ngetich, a key figure in the enactment of engineering technology legislation during her tenure as Woman Representative for Bomet County between 2013 and 2017, highlighted the importance of engineering professionals in implementing agricultural technologies at the grassroots level. She noted the significance of technology in boosting food production, improving efficiency, and enhancing resilience to adverse weather conditions.
The engineering technology community also emphasized innovations in seeds, machinery, and other agricultural technologies, illustrating how technical skills can address food security challenges. The leaders advocated for leveraging Kenya’s engineering and technical expertise to enhance local food production rather than relying heavily on imports.
Prof. Charles Ondieki, former Honorary Treasurer and Council member, argued that investment in engineering technology would not only improve food security but also create employment opportunities for the youth, while supporting local manufacturing and industrialization.
These insights were shared during the 10th anniversary celebrations of the Engineering Technology Act, 2016, in Eldoret. The event served as a platform for professionals to honor those instrumental in securing the Act and to reflect on the progress made since its enactment.
Juma reiterated the profession’s commitment to supporting the Government’s development agenda through technical expertise that translates policies and innovations into tangible projects. She urged the Government to address regulatory gaps in the sector, noting that a fully operational regulatory framework would enable engineering technologists and technicians to contribute more effectively to industrialization, public safety, innovation, and sustainable economic development.
The leaders concluded by stating that strengthening engineering technology is vital for Kenya to realize its long-term development goals and build a workforce capable of designing, implementing, and maintaining the necessary infrastructure and technologies to drive economic growth.
