Surveyors have convened in Mombasa for the 9th Institution of Surveyors of Kenya (ISK) Africa Regional Conference, which will take place from Thursday, November 7th, to Friday, November 8th, 2024.
Speaking on the first day of the conference, ISK President Eric Nyadimo said the conference themed ‘Adapt. Thrive. Sustain: The Future of Land and Built Environment in the Face of Change’ underscored the urgent need for innovative approaches and sustainable practices in the land and built sector.
“This conference offers a platform for regional and international leaders in the land and built environment to unite, share their insights, and work collaboratively toward a vision that secures our future amidst the profound challenges of our time which include climate change, rapid urbanization, digital transormation, and shifting demographics,” said ISK President Eric Nyadimo.
Nyadimo said the conference will explore diverse strategies to foster resilience and innovation.
“Attendees will have opportunities to delve into case studies, examine the successes and challenges faced by other regions, and envision scalable solutions that meet Africa’s unique needs and aspirations. We will also examine how partnerships – between government, private sector, and civil society – can strengthen the fabric of our practices and set new standards of excellence in the field,” he said.
Meanwhile, Mombasa Governor Abdullswamad Sheriff Nassir said the county was committed to working with institutions like ISK to build a future that is adaptive, thriving, and sustainable.
In his speech delivered by Lands, Housing and Urban Development CECM Mohamed Hussein (Amadoh), Governor Swamad said the county had initiated several programs aimed at making the city more resilient to the effects of climate change.
“We are investing in coastal defence systems to mitigate flooding, revising zoning regulations to accommodate new realities, and exploring new technologies to optimize land use. But adaptation goes beyond infrastructure; it involves creating the systems and institutions that allow communities and economies to thrive in the face of change,” said Amadoh.
The Lands CEC also said the county was working on expanding green spaces, promoting renewable energy, and enforcing regulations that reduce carbon emissions.
“The land and built environment must lead the charge by adopting practices that minimize environmental degradation, reduce waste, and promote energy efficiency. Surveyors, planners, architects, and engineers are the future custodians of our future landscapes, and you have the responsibility to ensure that our development agenda is both economically viable and environmentally sound,” he said.
