Eng. Shammah Kiteme and Eng. Annette Ingaiza at IEK Engineers Golf Day 2025
The Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) on Saturday staged its first-ever Engineers Golf Day at Ruiru Sports Club, an event that blended sport, professional networking, and charity.
The tournament brought together hundreds of engineers, sponsors, and stakeholders with a shared goal: raising funds to help engineering students across Kenya become members of IEK.
IEK President Eng. Shammah Kiteme said the initiative is designed to bridge the gap between students and the professional body by eliminating financial barriers to membership.
“We have signed agreements with deans and principals of 17 universities that offer engineering training. Every year, around 2,500 students enroll in these programs. Our aim is to ensure that none of them misses the opportunity to become a student member of IEK.”
“Membership provides access to mentorship, professional guidance, and a clear pathway to full registration as corporate or fellow engineers,” he explained.
The event also provided an opportunity for engineers to network beyond the boardroom. Eng. Derek Okova, a participant, highlighted how the idea was born. “Initially, the golf day was about networking among engineers. But when we considered the struggles students face in paying membership fees, we decided to dedicate the proceeds towards supporting them. With the help of sponsors like Galana Energies, Kenya Pipeline, KERA, Davis & Shirtliff, and ICA, we have created a kitty to cover their membership. This ensures that students can join IEK for free and benefit from mentorship,” he said.
Ruiru Sports Club Captain Justus Mathenge praised the partnership, describing the event as one that combines leisure with a higher cause.
“We are hosting over 250 golfers today. Beyond the game, the engineers are sharing ideas about how their profession contributes to national development. Ruiru is proud to be the home of hospitality for such a noble initiative,” he said.
For young engineers, the day carried special meaning. Eng. Titus Koech, an electrical engineer, said the initiative would inspire future leaders. “Part of our responsibility is to support both infrastructure and social development. IEK has played a key role in nurturing upcoming engineers, and I encourage students to join early to prepare for their professional journey,” he said.
With plans to make the Golf Day an annual tradition, IEK says it is determined to keep investing in the next generation of engineers one round of golf at a time.
