The government is set to introduce regulations for masons, commonly referred to as Fundis, on construction sites, as well as for construction companies, through the proposed Engineering Professionals’ Bill. This bill, which has obtained initial approval from the cabinet, aims to replace the outdated 1969 law, aligning regulations with modern standards.
It will extend liability beyond individual engineers to the entire construction team and regulate the entire construction site environment, including developers. According to Minister for Science and Technology, Monica Musenero, there is a need for an updated law to meet contemporary standards, highlighting Uganda’s progress in the engineering sector.
She emphasized the importance of hands-on training for engineers, particularly with the advent of local automotive manufacturing, which will require mechanical engineering professionals skilled in practical abilities.
“We have been training engineers largely theoretically because we are not training them to fit into a particular industry, but this is going to change because when we start manufacturing automotive, we will need people who can design the different parts. So we are going to expand the role of engineers in the country, with specific hands-on training, and by this, we are going into hands-on engineering, and once it is started, we will open up regional centers to decentralize the system,” explained the minister.
The proposed law comes at a crucial time when the construction sector in Uganda faces numerous irregularities, particularly in civil works, leading to tragic incidents such as building collapses. Isaac Mutenyo, Chairman of the Engineers Registration Board, emphasized the urgency of passing the Engineering Professionals’ Bill to ensure accountability across the construction value chain and outline penalties for professional negligence.
According to Mutenyo, the new law will encompass construction companies, holding them accountable alongside individual engineers.
Musa Ecweru, State Minister for Works, urged engineers to adapt to global changes, particularly climate change, while reassuring those in public office about job security amid government rationalization efforts. He also encouraged financial institutions to continue supporting contractors with valid contracts despite ongoing mergers within government agencies.
These legislative changes aim to bolster accountability and professionalism in the engineering sector, addressing current challenges and fostering a more resilient industry.