Tatu City: Tatu City, the expansive 5,000-acre Special Economic Zone in Kiambu County, has recently finalized a significant accreditation process with the National Construction Authority (NCA), successfully certifying 500 skilled workers and site supervisors. This development highlights Tatu City’s dedication to maintaining stringent standards in building safety, quality, and compliance with Kenya’s construction regulations.
According to Kenya News Agency, the comprehensive week-long accreditation involved technical staff and construction professionals from various projects within Tatu City, including Tatu Industrial Park, Kijani Ridge, and Unity Homes. The workers, comprising masons, electricians, plumbers, painters, welders, carpenters, and supervisors, underwent thorough evaluation to meet NCA’s technical and safety criteria.
Eng. Julius Muchiri, Regional Coordinator for NCA Kiambu County, emphasized the significance of the initiative during its inauguration, noting that it sets a benchmark for the cons
truction industry. He remarked, “This effort sets a benchmark for the construction industry. By prioritizing accreditation, Tatu City ensures a safer, more compliant building environment, serving as a model for other developers.”
Kenya’s construction sector continues to face challenges such as non-compliance with building codes, employment of unqualified personnel, and corruption, all contributing to the collapse of numerous buildings in the country. A recent NCA audit revealed that over 70 percent of inspected buildings were unsafe, underscoring the necessity for strict adherence to safety and quality standards.
Onesmus Kinyua, Lead Clerk of Works at Tatu City, stated that the accreditation program not only advances the skills of their workforce but also guarantees that every structure built is enduring. He added, “At Tatu City, quality and safety are non-negotiable.”
Tatu City’s comprehensive approach integrates health, safety, and compliance as critical components of its development strategy. Presently,
26,400 individuals live, work, or study within the city, exemplifying sustainable urban living. The NCA accreditation provides assurance to developers and contractors that construction workers and site supervisors at Tatu City possess the necessary technical expertise and comply with safety regulations, promoting a safer and more dependable construction environment.
Tatu Industrial Park, recognized as East Africa’s largest private light industrial zone, accommodates 88 companies that are either operational or under construction. Kijani Ridge, Kenya’s premier residential development, currently has over 100 homes in progress, each employing multiple contractors. Unity Homes, a leading property developer in Kenya, has over 700 housing units under construction, addressing the increasing demand for modern, affordable housing in Tatu City.