Architects Want to Chart Own Path
The Institute would also register individuals who meet the required professional and ethical standards, conduct examinations, and prescribe appropriate tests of competency for membership and certification. Currently, these responsibilities fall under the Board of Registration of Architects and Quantity Surveyors (BORAQS).
A group of architects is advocating for new legislation to govern the profession of architecture in Kenya. Operating under the banner of The Architects Alliance (TAA), these professionals seek to create a distinct path for architects, moving away from the current framework of CAP 525, which simultaneously regulates both architects and quantity surveyors.
The proposed Architects Bill aims to establish the Institute of Architects, which would be responsible for setting, monitoring, and publishing standards of professional competence and practice among architects. The Institute would also register individuals who meet the required professional and ethical standards, conduct examinations, and prescribe appropriate tests of competency for membership and certification. Currently, these responsibilities fall under the Board of Registration of Architects and Quantity Surveyors (BORAQS).
The impact of this proposed legislation on the Architectural Association of Kenya (AAK), the current umbrella organization for construction industry professionals, remains uncertain. In an interview last year, one of TAA’s founders, Arch. Sylvia Kasanga, emphasized that the new alliance is not intended to compete with the AAK.
“We have observed with dismay the deterioration of our physical and built environment. We believe that the solution lies in engaging every citizen to appreciate the value of good physical environments and the importance of preserving the heritage passed down to us, ensuring we can hand it over to future generations,” Ms. Kasanga stated at the time.
Initially, TAA focused on architects with at least 20 years of experience but has now opened its doors to all architects.
For the complete draft of the bill, visit this link.
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