Uganda has joined the global celebration of World Engineering Day under the theme ‘Engineering for a sustainable world.’ However, there are lingering concerns about how Uganda’s engineering community can fully leverage the local content policy, which advocates for up to 40% of contracts to be awarded to local actors, especially in construction.
Dr. Isaac Mutenyo, Chairperson of the Engineers Registration Board, highlighted the significance of the day, stating, “As we gather here, across the world, the engineering day is being celebrated. This is important for us in showcasing the many things that engineers do, in technology, science, and engineering.” He revealed that there are currently 1,789 registered engineers in Uganda but emphasized the need to expand this figure.
Dr. Mutenyo underscored the importance of the Engineers Bill, which aims to enhance compliance within the engineering fraternity and enforce provisions against misconduct once passed. He also outlined various challenges facing the sector, including the shortage of engineers, the need for professionalization, and maintaining competencies. Furthermore, plans are in place to create an engineering index and conduct a census to determine the number of engineers, technicians, and artisans in the economy.
Regarding local content, Dr. Mutenyo stressed the necessity of acquiring technology and capital to enhance the competitiveness of domestic engineers. Sam Bagonza, Chief Engineer in the Ministry of Works and Transport, urged engineers to consider environmental implications in their projects and adopt global environmental safeguards from design to implementation.
Eng. Andrew Muwhezi, President of the Uganda Institute of Professional Engineers, proposed the establishment of an engineers SACCO to create an infrastructure fund, providing affordable capital for engineers. He emphasized the importance of research, innovation, and digitalization within the institute to enhance engagement with engineers.
State Minister Musa Ecweru commended local engineers for their efforts but called for better quality assurance systems and increased registration of engineers to address issues of shoddy work. Dr. Monica Musenero, Minister for Science, Technology, and Innovation, emphasized the need for engineering solutions in skills development to achieve Vision 2040, highlighting ongoing efforts to realign projects and processes across different sectors in the country.
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