Kenyan engineers cry foul over marginalisation by foreign firms
IEK further warned that lucrative projects and positions continue to be diverted to foreign nationals at the expense of qualified Kenyan engineers, a trend it said contravenes principles of fairness and national development.
The Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) has decried what it calls the growing marginalisation of local professionals, accusing foreign firms operating in the country of sidelining Kenyan engineers by underpaying them, misusing their skills, and denying them opportunities in favour of foreign engineers despite their proven competence.
In a statement, IEK said it has received verified reports showing that Kenyan engineers are being subjected to unfair treatment in their own country.
More To Read
- Engineers: Bribe demands, system failures hindering building approvals in Nairobi
- Engineers sound alarm over substandard cement amid rising building collapses in Kenya
- Engineers want Aisha Jumwa's appointment to roads board revoked
- Engineers criticise JKIA takeover by Adani Group
- Engineers sound alarm over Kenya’s manufacturing sector and stalled projects
The institution pointed to unfair remuneration practices by foreign firms operating locally and the misuse of engineers in roles that neither reflect their training nor contractual terms.
IEK further warned that lucrative projects and positions continue to be diverted to foreign nationals at the expense of qualified Kenyan engineers, a trend it said contravenes principles of fairness and national development.
"Verified reports have continued to reach the Council that foreign firms are underpaying engineers, misusing their professional expertise, and diverting opportunities that rightfully belong to Kenyan professionals to foreign nationals. This situation is unacceptable and undermines both the dignity of our engineers and the future of Kenya’s technical capacity,” said IEK President Shammah Kiteme.
To address the grievances, IEK is calling for urgent intervention to safeguard the profession. Among its key demands are the immediate enforcement of existing laws to ensure Kenyan engineers receive fair remuneration and treatment, protection of professional opportunities as a matter of national priority, and a transparent review of foreign engagement in engineering works to guarantee compliance with Kenyan labour and professional standards.
To escalate the matter, IEK announced that it will present a public petition to the authorities on August 27, 2025.
"The IEK is ready to work collaboratively with government, industry stakeholders, and the wider public to ensure that Kenyan engineers are accorded their rightful place in nation building. This is a collective responsibility, and the Institution will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as necessary," said Kiteme.
Top Stories Today
