KIHBT to host 1st international research conference on sustainable road transport

KiHBT Practical training on Construction of Low Volume Sealed Roads./HANDOUT

As the Sustainability debates rages on, the Kenya Institute of Highways and Building Technology (KIHBT), a training division under the State Department for Roads, is joining the fray and will host its 1st International Research Conference from May 20-22, 2026 at PrideInn Flamingo Beach Resort and Spa Mombasa, Kenya.

Themed “Enhancing Capacity Building and Skills Development for Sustainable Road Transport,”

The conference is organised with support from the World Bank through the East Africa Skills for Transformation and Regional Integration Project (EASTRIP), an initiative aimed at increasing access to quality Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), improving quality and relevance of training programs, and promoting regional integration.

The Conference is expected to bring together over 300 participants drawn from Government institutions, Academia, Development partners, Private sector organizations, Researchers, Engineers, Policymakers, Counties, Consultants and Industry practitioners from Kenya and beyond.

KIHBT is mandated to provide capacity building and undertake research for the roads subsector. This plays a critical role in strengthening technical and professional skills within the infrastructure sector and advance sustainability conversations in Industry.

The institution has over the years contributed to the development of skilled manpower through specialised training programmes in Highways Technology, Construction Plant Machinery operations, Road Construction and Maintenance, Capacity building on Road Safety and other Engineering-related disciplines.

The Conference will serve as an important platform for knowledge sharing, innovation, networking, and collaboration on emerging issues affecting sustainable road transport and infrastructure development.

Panel Discussions will focus on strengthening capacity building, advancing technical skills, embracing innovation, Sustainable Financing and regulatory Policies, and promoting sustainable practices within the transport sector.

Participants attending will have an opportunity to present Research Papers, exchange experiences, showcase technologies and innovations, and engage in policy dialogue on the future of sustainable transport systems.

The Conference is also expected to enhance partnerships amongst training institutions, government agencies, industry players, and development partners.

Besides the technical sessions, the Conference will feature exhibitions, networking opportunities for organizations and stakeholders seeking to showcase products, services, technologies, and innovations relevant to the infrastructure and transport sectors, excursions to various sites will also be organized.

KIHBT calls upon researchers, professionals, institutions, sponsors, exhibitors, and delegates to take part in the landmark event and contribute towards shaping the future of sustainable road transport through skills development and research in this Conference.

KIHBT intends the Conference to strengthen regional and international collaboration and reinforce the role of TVET, research and dialogue in supporting Kenya’s infrastructure development agenda and economic growth.