Rwanda’s engineering landscape is evolving rapidly, poised to play a critical role in its Vision 2050, as it transitions towards becoming a high-income, knowledge-driven economy. For those eager to showcase innovative research and ideas on a global stage, Kigali will host the Global Engineering Conference on Sustainable Development, along with the World Federation of Engineering Organisations Executive Committee Meetings, from Tuesday, October 15 to 18.

The event is expected to attract over 800 attendees, more than 30 speakers, 23 workshops, and 100 exhibitors. Delegates will also have the opportunity to visit key infrastructure projects like the new airport in Bugesera District, Nyabarongo II Multipurpose Dam, and Norrsken House Kigali.

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"This conference will foster the exchange of experience, knowledge, and innovations in engineering, with a strong focus on Sustainable Development Goals,” said Gentil Kangaho, president of the Institution of Engineers Rwanda (IER), at a press briefing on Tuesday, October 8.

Originally slated for 2020, Rwanda secured the bid to host this prestigious event, but it was delayed due to the pandemic. Now, the conference will spotlight sustainable innovation in engineering for development, offering global solutions while showcasing the region’s growing capacity.

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"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.”

"I would like to express my gratitude to our sponsors: DAR as the platinum sponsor; Rwanda Housing Authority, Crystal Ventures, and Tensor as gold sponsors; Rwanda Polytechnic as a silver sponsor; and Ruzizi III Energy Limited as the bronze sponsor. Additionally, I am pleased to announce that Bridges to Prosperity has been selected as the conference’s charity,” Kangaho added.

Reflecting on the growth of the engineering profession in recent years, Steven Sabiti, CEO of the Institution of Engineers Rwanda, emphasised the shift in industry standards. "The change is noticeable. 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,” Sabiti noted.

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Sabiti also highlighted that proper accreditation is crucial for a sustainable future. "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.

"We are pleased to see more professionals enrolling in global forums like this, as it will contribute valuable knowledge toward national growth.”

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.”

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Jack Ngarambe, Director General of Urbanisation, Housing, and Human Settlement at the Ministry of Infrastructure, emphasised the role engineers play in shaping Africa's sustainable future. "The growing demand for infrastructure, clean energy, and climate resilience presents a unique opportunity for engineers to drive Africa’s sustainable growth,” he said. "However, more effort is needed to attract younger individuals, particularly women, into the profession.”

Ngarambe highlighted the integration of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the conference discussions. SDG11, focused on sustainable cities and communities, will cover topics such as smart and resilient cities, urban planning, transportation infrastructure, sustainable architecture, and disaster resilience.

SDG13 will address climate action with discussions on engineering solutions for climate resilience, adaptation strategies, mitigation technologies, and sustainable infrastructure development.

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The event will also delve into SDG9 on industry, innovation, and infrastructure, and SDG7 on affordable and clean energy, exploring renewable energy technologies, energy efficiency, and electrification strategies for underserved communities.

Organisers noted that SDG6 will concentrate on clean water and sanitation, with a focus on engineering innovations for water security, water treatment technologies, sanitation solutions, and sustainable water resource management. Meanwhile, SDG4 will highlight quality education through STEM initiatives, lifelong learning, and skills development for the engineering workforce.

Ahead of the conference, over 70 new members were sworn in, bringing the total certified engineers, technologists, and technicians to 3,500, with women making up just 10 per cent.