The Architectural Association of Kenya (AAK) has announced that its 2025 annual convention will be held in Kisumu from October 1 to 3, returning to the lakeside city after more than two decades. Themed “Shaping the Urban Future”, the event will bring together over 4,000 built environment professionals to craft sustainable, resilient, and inclusive urban solutions.
Speaking at the launch in Kisumu, AAK Secretary General and landscape architect Ruth Wanjiku said the city was selected for its exemplary strides in urban planning, green infrastructure, and mobility systems. “Kisumu is a model worth building on. It shows that intermediary cities can lead the way in sustainable urbanisation,” she noted.
The flagship convention will gather architects, engineers, planners, quantity surveyors, and construction experts from Kenya and beyond. Key discussion themes include turning urban plans into reality through effective policy and finance, designing inclusive public spaces, building climate-resilient cities, and fostering urban innovation.
AAK also plans to officially launch its new Western branch during the convention, strengthening its regional presence and promoting professional decentralisation in line with Kenya’s devolution goals.
Interim chairperson of the Western branch, Oscar Ogunde, urged professionals to hold political leaders accountable for decisions impacting urban spaces. “When Lwang’ni Beach was demolished, Kisumu lost a vital public space. That’s why we must speak up and guide decision-making,” he said, adding that deeper collaboration with counties was vital, especially where technical expertise remains low.
AAK hopes the convention will help address key challenges in Kenya’s urban landscape, including recent construction failures. The association links these to poor workmanship, substandard materials, and limited professional oversight. Through initiatives like the Mulika Mjengo digital platform, AAK encourages public reporting of unsafe sites and enforces ethics among members via its disciplinary committee.
“This is more than a convention it’s a national call to action,” Wanjiku said. “We invite all stakeholders to join us in shaping cities that serve all Kenyans now and for generations to come.”
