Kenyan Engineer Nathaniel Matalanga has been elected as president of the World Council of Civil Engineers (WCCE) in a landmark achievement for both Kenya and the African continent.
This historic election marks the first time an African engineer has been appointed to lead the organization since its inception.
He set to assume office in 2027.
Matalanga’s election underscores the growing influence and capability of African professionals in the field of civil engineering and brings a new level of global recognition to Kenya’s contributions to engineering.
Founded in 2005, the WCCE is an international body dedicated to promoting the civil engineering profession worldwide, addressing infrastructure challenges, and fostering cooperation among civil engineers.
Representing professional engineers from over 25 countries, the WCCE is influential in setting global engineering standards and practices, shaping policies, and ensuring sustainable infrastructure development.
Matalanga’s leadership brings a fresh perspective, and his election is a testament to the increasing importance of diverse voices in the global engineering conversation.
With an impressive career in civil engineering, Matalanga has demonstrated dedication, expertise, and a vision that has led him to his current role.
Known for his commitment to sustainable development and innovative infrastructure solutions, Matalanga has held various leadership roles in both Kenyan and international engineering communities.
His efforts have contributed to the development of infrastructure that not only meets today’s needs but also considers future environmental and economic impacts.
As President of WCCE, Matalanga aims to emphasize sustainable development, a critical focus as the world faces climate change and rapid urbanization.
“We have a responsibility as civil engineers to build infrastructure that protects both people and the planet,” Matalanga stated in a recent address.
He plans to strengthen collaboration between WCCE and other international organizations to ensure the implementation of sustainable engineering practices globally.
Qualifications
Eng. Matalanga a registered Structural Engineer with over 30 years’ experience in structural engineering design of buildings and surrounding infrastructure has a Bachelor of Science Degree (Civil Engineering) in 1989 from the University of Nairobi (UON).
He is the immediate Past President of the Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) having served the Institution as President (2020-2023), Honorary Secretary (2015-2020) Ordinary Council Member (2014-2015).
He serves at the Executive Council of World Federation of Engineering Organizations (WFEO) (2019-2023), member of WFEO Governance Committee (2019-2023) and Treasurer of the World Council of Civil Engineers (WCCE) (2022-2025).
Matalanga is a Fellow of the Institution of Engineers of Kenya, Fellow of Architectural Association of Kenya –Engineers Chapter, member of Uganda Institution of Professional Engineers, member of Institution of Engineers Rwanda, registered Engineer – Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda, Former Registrar at Architectural Association of Kenya – 2013-2017 and Former Chairman of Architectural Association of Kenya, Engineers Chapter – 2007-2013, member of KEPSA Lands Sector Board (2018-2020), IEK Mhandisi Cooperative Sacco (2014 to date), Chairperson, Resource mobilization Committee at IEK and member of the Eminent Engineers Forum (EEF).
He has hands-on experience in designing and implementing schemes in the Horn of Africa and the Great Lakes Region (Rwanda, Burundi, Uganda, Kenya, Sudan, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Somalia). He has actively participated in the East African Federation of Engineering Organizations (EAFEO) and Federation of African Engineering Organizations (FAEO) activities being Chair of FAEO Nominations Committee and attended FAEO activities in Tanzania, Ghana, Uganda, and Tunisia. He has been very vocal in advocating for engineers’ rights and welfare and has a passion to promote African Countries to join the International Engineering Alliance (IEA).
Eng. Matalanga was conferred the Order of Grand Warrior (OGW) by retired President of Kenya Uhuru Kenyatta in 2021. OGW is an award presented by the President of Kenya to individuals in recognition of outstanding service rendered to the country in different responsibilities and capacities.
