NAIROBI, July 4 (Xinhua) -- Chinese contractors are helping advance Kenya's construction sector by transferring technologies, the industry regulator said on Friday.

Maurice Akech, executive director of Kenya's National Construction Authority, told Xinhua in Nairobi, capital of Kenya, that Chinese firms undertaking major infrastructure projects are partnering with local contractors to deliver their tasks.

"Kenya's construction industry has benefited from new building techniques that inject efficiency and sustainability which are helping modernize the country," Akech said on the sidelines of the launch of the Construction Excellence Awards, an initiative that recognizes outstanding achievements in the sector.

He said that cooperation with Chinese contractors has strengthened the capacity of local firms to undertake complex construction projects.

According to Aketch, Chinese contractors have introduced techniques that reduce construction time and material waste.

He added that these contractors are also playing a key role in supporting local partners to implement the government's affordable housing program. ■