Principal Secretary for Roads, Eng. Joseph Mbugua, has officially opened the inaugural KIHBT International Research Conference in Mombasa, bringing together stakeholders in infrastructure, technology, and vocational training to discuss innovations aimed at transforming the country’s infrastructure sector.

Speaking during the conference, Mbugua said the main objective of the forum is to unite industry players and researchers to explore emerging technologies that can enhance infrastructure development and improve service delivery in the sector.

He noted that the Kenya Institute of Highways and Building Technology (KIHBT) is one of the country’s oldest technical institutions, established during the colonial era, and has over the years trained thousands of technicians and engineers who continue to play a key role in the construction and infrastructure industries.

“We have brought together all the players so that we can look at how we have been doing business and identify the gaps that need to be addressed to ensure the country moves forward in the right direction,” said Mbugua.

The PS added that KIHBT, together with other technical institutions, has been instrumental in training professionals in engineering, construction, and other building-related sectors. However, he acknowledged that one of the major challenges facing graduates is access to employment opportunities.

“We are working to ensure that students graduating from this institution secure employment opportunities after completing their training,” he said.

Mbugua further revealed that the government is embracing modern technology to improve road safety, road durability, and visibility for motorists, with the aim of reducing road damage and enhancing the overall quality of transport infrastructure.

His remarks were echoed by Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Principal Secretary Esther Muoria, who emphasized the importance of integrating modern technology into training institutions to equip learners with practical skills that support national development.

“KIHBT is a regional center of excellence in roads, highways, and infrastructure skills,” said Muoria.

She added that no country can achieve world-class infrastructure without investing in world-class skills, noting that quality roads and infrastructure depend heavily on competent technicians and engineers.

Muoria also challenged engineers, researchers, and trainers to move beyond policy discussions and focus on practical infrastructure solutions that improve livelihoods and strengthen resilience against climate change.

“Kenya’s rapid infrastructure expansion requires highly skilled professionals and research-driven innovation, not just construction equipment and financing,” she stated.

KIHBT Chairman Dr. Nicholas Kunga said the institution remains committed to developing human capital and strengthening the road sub-sector through quality training and research.

He noted that the conference marks a new chapter in integrating research into industry operations and decision-making processes.

“We are keen to ensure that the institution meets expectations. We are fully committed to facilitating high-quality training and research in infrastructure development,” said Kunga.

To achieve this, he said the institution is focusing on reviewing policies to align them with government technical and vocational education strategies, developing industry-relevant programs, and strengthening collaboration with stakeholders, including road agencies and academic institutions.