by MyEngineers
Rwanda’s Institution of Engineers Rwanda (IER) is eager to showcase innovative research and ideas on a global stage, as it hosts the Global Engineering Conference on Sustainable Development, along with the World Federation of Engineering Organisations, (WFEO) Executive Committee Meetings, from Tuesday, October 15 to 18.
This is as Rwanda aims toward becoming a high-income, knowledge-driven economy, with engineering expected to play a crucial role in shaping the country’s future. The event which was originally scheduled for 2020, and delayed due to the pandemic, will highlight Rwanda’s growing capacity in sustainable engineering.
The event is expected to attract over 800 attendees, including 30 speakers, 23 workshops, and 100 exhibitors. Delegates will also have the opportunity to explore key infrastructure projects in the country such as the new airport in Bugesera District, Nyabarongo II Multipurpose Dam, and Norrsken House Kigali.
Knowledge Exchanges
Speaking at Press briefing The President of the president of the Institution of Engineers Rwanda (IER),Gentil Kangaho expressed excitement at the Country’s preparation too host the world. According to him, the “conference will foster exchange of experience, knowledge, and innovations in engineering, with a strong focus on Sustainable Development Goals,”
“We are thrilled to host this major event, which will not only showcase Rwanda’s achievements but also highlight the potential across Africa. This marks the first time the conference is being held in Sub-Saharan Africa, and we have planned six sub-themes aligned with the SDGs.” he said.
“A major issue in the past was unqualified individuals taking on projects without the necessary credentials.”-Steven Sabiti
A Growing shift in industry standards
Also speaking, Steven Sabiti, CEO of the Institution of Engineers Rwanda, reflected on the growth of the engineering profession in recent years. According to him, “We’ve cultivated a culture of continuous learning and professional development, encouraged ethical behaviour and accountability, and promoted interdisciplinary collaboration. Professional inspections for compliance with laws, regulations, and building codes—especially in Kigali and secondary cities—have accelerated infrastructure development through local government authorities,”
“A major issue in the past was unqualified individuals taking on projects without the necessary credentials. Accreditation ensures that engineers, technologists, and technicians are equipped to design and implement infrastructure that can withstand natural disasters, climate change, and other challenges,” he said.
He further underscored the broader focus of the conference: “We’ll revisit key areas like environmental protection, water and sanitation, affordable energy, and industrial innovation. With industry experts, policymakers, and academia on board, attendees will also have the opportunity to physically visit projects and grasp the rationale behind their implementation.”
“The growing demand for infrastructure, clean energy, and climate resilience presents a unique opportunity for engineers to drive Africa’s sustainable growth,”- Jack Ngarambe
Sustainable Development Goals at the forefront
Also speaking, Jack Ngarambe, Director General of Urbanisation, Housing, and Human Settlement at the Ministry of Infrastructure, highlighted the role engineers play in shaping Africa’s sustainable future. He emphasized the need to attract more young people, particularly women, into the profession.
According to him, “The growing demand for infrastructure, clean energy, and climate resilience presents a unique opportunity for engineers to drive Africa’s sustainable growth,” he said.
Ngarambe highlighted the integration of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs SDG11, SDG13, SDG6, SDG4, SDG11, SDG9, SDG7 ), comprising sustainable cities and communities, climate action, industry, innovation, and infrastructure, affordable and clean energy, clean water and sanitation, and quality education. in the conference discussions.
Rwanda’s engineering sector is also making significant strides. The government has implemented various initiatives to promote sustainable development and infrastructure development, such as the National Infrastructure Development Master Plan and the Rwanda Green Fund. These initiatives aim to improve the country’s infrastructure, reduce its carbon footprint, and create jobs.
The Global Engineering Conference on Sustainable Development offers a valuable networking platform for engineers from around the world to come together and discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the profession.
Ahead of the conference, over 70 new members were sworn in, bringing the total certified engineers, technologists, and technicians to 3,500. However, women still make up only 10 percent of the profession.
The conference is supported by various sponsors, including DAR as the platinum sponsor, Rwanda Housing Authority, Crystal Ventures, and Tensor as gold sponsors, and Ruzizi III Energy Limited as the bronze sponsor. Bridges to Prosperity has been selected as the conference’s charity.