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Project managers are expressing frustration over the growing presence of unqualified individuals in the construction industry and are calling for a certification law to address the issue.

Maureen Mbithi, President of the Project Managers Institute (PMI) Kenyan Chapter, is spearheading efforts to introduce a bill that would make certification mandatory for all project managers in the country. She emphasised that the proposed legislation aims to establish a robust regulatory framework for the profession.

Mbithi who spoke in Nairobi highlighted the bill’s primary goal would be to ensure that only certified project management professionals oversee critical projects across various sectors of the economy.

The proposed legislation is expected to be tabled in Parliament early next year. “The bill seeks to professionalise project management in Kenya by requiring certification, which will guarantee competence and accountability in delivering projects,” Mbithi stated.

She argued that unqualified individuals, often referred to as “quacks,” are a significant contributor to substandard project outcomes. These failures not only compromise the quality and safety of projects but also tarnish the reputation of the profession.

The proposed law is anticipated to enhance standards in project management and instil confidence in stakeholders, ensuring that projects are executed efficiently and effectively. If enacted, it would mark a significant step toward elevating the industry’s integrity and professionalism in Kenya.

“Our country faces immense challenges in ensuring that projects are delivered effectively and efficiently,” Mbithi said at the Project Management National Excellence Awards and Gala Dinner 2024. The proposed law, she noted, is vital for protecting both public and private stakeholders from poorly executed projects that can have devastating consequences.
“It is time to differentiate between genuine professionals from those who are undermining the industry,” she stated.

The proposed bill has three main objectives, namely; protection of Public Interest by regulating the profession, to shield the public and beneficiaries from the risks posed by unqualified individuals overseeing projects. And to enhance national capacity, the bill proposes the formal recognition of certified project managers as the leading professionals responsible for managing and executing public sector projects, thereby improving the delivery of tax-funded initiatives and the tracking of national programs.

“Thirdly, the bill seeks to promote transparency and accountability, by ensuring that certified project managers are in charge,” Mbithi, saying that it further seeks to enhance accountability and transparency in the implementation of national development programs, ensuring that resources are used efficiently.

Such a bill was introduced in March 2023 by Mbeere South MP Nebert Muriuki. However, it was rejected by the Speaker of the National Assembly Speaker, who cited overlaps with existing legislations. Since then, PMI Kenya has appealed for further deliberation and is actively seeking support to have the bill reintroduced in Parliament.

Kevin Nyakundi, an engineer at Peak Point Consulting, highlighted inefficiencies in the construction industry, pointing to significant losses due to poor project delivery.

“Across Africa, for every Sh130 billion spent on projects, about 30 to 40 per cent is lost due to ineffective delivery.” “As taxpayers, we need to ensure that the funds we invest in infrastructure projects deliver real value,” Nyakundi noted.