Stakeholders Back Enhanced Construction Standards as CIRA Continues Mandate Awareness Campaign
Stakeholders in the construction industry have expressed strong support for enhanced construction standards following a mandate awareness campaign conducted by the Construction Industry Regulatory Authority (CIRA). The engagement forms part of CIRA’s ongoing efforts to sensitize industry players on its regulatory role and promote compliance, professionalism, and quality in the sector.
The sensitization meeting brought together contractors, consultants, suppliers, developers, local authorities, and other key players in the construction value chain. During the session, CIRA officials outlined the Authority’s mandate, functions, and strategic objectives, with particular emphasis on the importance of adhering to approved construction standards to ensure safety, durability, and value for money in construction projects.
Making his remarks, CIRA Chief Executive Officer, Eng. Gerald T. Khonje noted that enhanced construction standards are critical in safeguarding public safety and improving the overall performance of the construction industry. He explained that non-compliance with established standards often results in substandard works, project delays, increased costs, and, in extreme cases, structural failures that put lives at risk.
“CIRA’s mandate is not to police the industry but to guide, regulate, and support stakeholders to deliver quality and safe infrastructure,” said Eng. Khonje. “By strengthening construction standards and ensuring compliance, we are collectively protecting the public and raising the credibility of the industry. In fact, our role as an industry is not just to build infrastructure but also to build legacies through quality infrastructure that will better lives for generations”
Stakeholders welcomed the engagement, describing it as timely and informative. Many participants acknowledged that limited awareness of regulatory requirements had previously contributed to misunderstandings and non-compliance within the sector. They commended CIRA for taking a proactive approach to engage stakeholders directly and clarify expectations.
Representatives of construction firms indicated that clear standards provide a level playing field and help eliminate unfair competition driven by poor workmanship and cost-cutting practices. They noted that enhanced standards encourage professionalism, innovation, and skills development, ultimately leading to improved project outcomes.
Local authorities and project developers also expressed support for CIRA’s efforts, highlighting the role of strong regulation in improving coordination across the sector. They emphasized that compliance with construction standards is essential for sustainable development, particularly as the demand for infrastructure continues to grow.
The sensitization session further highlighted CIRA’s key regulatory tools, including contractor registration, classification, monitoring, and enforcement mechanisms. Stakeholders were encouraged to comply with registration requirements and to engage with the Authority whenever clarification or support is needed.
CIRA reiterated its commitment to continuous stakeholder engagement through awareness campaigns, training workshops, and collaborative forums. The Authority emphasized that successful regulation depends on partnership and shared responsibility among all players in the construction industry.
As part of the way forward, stakeholders agreed to strengthen collaboration with CIRA, share information, and promote adherence to approved standards within their respective organizations and professional networks. They also called for continued dialogue to address emerging challenges and align regulatory frameworks with industry realities.
The mandate awareness campaign is expected to continue across different regions, as CIRA seeks to build a well-regulated, competitive, and sustainable construction industry that meets national development goals.
