Deadline Looms as Parliament Opens Public Input on Key Architects and Property Bills

Kenya’s National Assembly has opened public participation on two bills with significant implications for the built environment. Stakeholders have until July 2 to submit memoranda.

The first is the Architects Bill, 2026. Sponsored by Hon. Wanami Wamboka, MP, National Assembly Bill No. 3 of 2026 seeks a comprehensive framework for training, registration, licensing of architects and architectural technicians, and regulation of architectural practice.

The bill has been referred to the Departmental Committee on Housing, Urban Planning and Public Works. This committee serves as the natural home for built environment legislation in Parliament.

For years, calls have grown louder for clearer regulatory structures in architecture. Concerns centre on proliferation of uncertified practitioners and grey areas in licensing for architectural technicians. If passed, the law could tighten entry requirements and boost accountability across the profession.

The second legislation is the Trust Administration Bill, 2026. National Assembly Bill No. 29 of 2026, sponsored by the Leader of the Majority Party, aims to repeal and replace the Trustees (Perpetual Succession) Act and the Trustees Act with a single modern framework.

Though primarily a legal and financial instrument, the bill carries notable implications for real estate and property development. Trusts are increasingly used as holding structures for commercial and residential assets. Clearer rules on registration, trustee duties, beneficial ownership and dissolution will matter to developers, investors and property professionals.

The Trust Administration Bill has been referred to the Departmental Committee on Justice and Legal Affairs.

Public participation is open until Thursday, July 2, 2026 at 5.00 p.m. Memoranda can be submitted by post to the Clerk of the National Assembly, hand delivery to the Office of the Clerk at Parliament Buildings, or by email to cna@parliament.go.ke.

Copies of both bills are available at the National Assembly Table Office and online. Construction Today encourages architects, planners, developers and legal practitioners active in property to engage with the process.

These bills could shape regulatory frameworks for the sector for years. Input from professionals on the ground will help ensure practical and effective legislation.