Engineers Call for Urgent Reforms over Delayed Project Approvals in Nairobi

The Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) is calling for urgent reforms to address persistent delays in the approval of development projects within Nairobi County, citing the inefficiency of the Electronic Development Applications Management System (eDAMS) as a major obstacle.

IEK President Eng. Shammah Kiteme expressed concern over the frequent downtimes and slow processing of the county’s electronic system, which was introduced to streamline development approvals but has instead become a source of frustration for professionals and developers alike.“Some development approvals have taken over a year to process,” Eng. Kiteme noted. “This is not only discouraging developers but also casting doubts on the competence and professionalism of engineers.”

The delays have raised alarms among stakeholders in the built environment, who warn that stalled infrastructure projects could hurt investor confidence and undermine Nairobi’s competitiveness as a regional hub.Eng. Kiteme made the remarks at the Nairobi County Assembly, where IEK representatives had been scheduled to present their grievances to the assembly’s planning committee.

However, the session was postponed due to a lack of quorum, further highlighting the challenges in addressing systemic issues.

The IEK President emphasized the urgent need for reforms to restore efficiency and accountability in the project approval process. He warned that the growing backlog of pending approvals is already impacting the city’s development trajectory and threatening the integrity of the engineering profession.“The prolonged inefficiencies in the system are not just technical failures—they are barriers to progress, innovation, and economic growth,” Kiteme added.

The engineers’ push for reforms comes amid mounting pressure on Nairobi County to improve service delivery in the face of rapid urbanization and increasing demand for infrastructure.

IEK is urging the county government to urgently audit the performance of eDAMS, engage professionals in finding solutions, and implement a more robust and transparent system to support timely approvals.The call underscores broader concerns about governance, professionalism, and the role of technology in facilitating urban development.

As the capital city grapples with infrastructure needs, engineers warn that without immediate action, Nairobi risks stalling its own growth.