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The World Federation of Engineering Organisation (WFEO) in collaboration with the Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK), UNESCO and other stakeholders are set to hold the Africa Engineering Conference (AEC) in Mobasa, Kenya, on September 17-21, 2018.

The theme of the AEC is, “Harvesting Blue/Ocean Economy for Accelerated Economic Growth: The Role of The Engineer.” The theme is in tandem with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14, which seeks to conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development.

The 5th edition of the conference follows the agreement the WFEO signed with UNESCO to hold an African Engineering Week (AEW) annually. The first AEW held in South Africa in 2014; the second was held in 2015 in Zimbabwe. Nigeria hosted the third edition in 2016, while Rwanda held the fourth edition in 2017.

Other collaborators are the Engineers Board of Kenya (EBK), and the Federation of African Engineering Organisation (FAEO). According to a statement by the organisers, the 2018 conference will bring together engineering experts to discuss how the continent can harness its vast resources and the role engineers are expected to play.

The Vice President of WFEO, Martin Manuhwa, said last month that the continent lacks the required number of engineers to create sustainable economic and social infrastructure that would boost Africa’s efforts to achieve the SDGs.

“The continent needs at least 2.5 million new engineers to meet Africa’s sustainable development goals,” he said.

Engineers play a key role in the creation of infrastructure to accelerate development and alleviate poverty, he added.

“There is need to invest in engineering education and encourage Africa young girls and boys to consider career in engineering if the continent is to achieve (the) SDGs,” said Kazawadi Papias Dedeki, President of IER.