Aisha Jumwa Katana’s appointment as the chairperson of the Kenya Roads Board (KRB) in limbo after The Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) called for revocation of her appointment citing lack of professional qualifications and an inappropriate appointment process.
The former Gender Cabinet Secretary was named by President William Ruto as the non-executive chairperson of KRB for a three-year tenure beginning January 17, 2025.
In order to properly manage the board’s technical duties, IEK President Shammah Kiteme in a statement raised eyebrows on the necessity of a chairman with experience in civil, structural, or transport engineering.
According to Kiteme, Jumwa’s appointment is against the Kenya Roads Board Act, which stipulates that the chairperson must be chosen from among members recommended by organisations included in the Act’s First Schedule.
“Appointments should prioritise individuals with relevant professional backgrounds to ensure KRB leadership aligns with its legal framework and technical demands,” Kiteme said.
He also emphasised how crucial it is to select an engineer who can meet the board’s technical mission and tackle the difficulties in developing road infrastructure.
The KRB is essential in monitoring road conditions, offering guidance on building codes, and guaranteeing the technical viability of projects.
In order to guarantee successful project delivery, the IEK’s quest for nullification emphasises the larger requirement for skilled technical leadership in important infrastructure agencies.
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