The Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) has expressed concerns over the appointment of Hon. Aisha Jumwa Katana as Chairperson of the Kenya Roads Board (KRB), citing misalignment with the KRB Act No. 7 of 1999 (Revised 2023). The IEK has called for the revocation of her appointment, stating that it contravenes legal provisions and undermines the technical nature of KRB’s mandate.
The KRB Act specifies that the Chairperson must be a non-executive member appointed by the President from nominees submitted by organizations listed in the Act’s First Schedule. These include the IEK, the Kenya Association of Manufacturers, the Automobile Association of Kenya, the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya, and the Kenya Transport Association. According to the IEK, “Hon. Aisha Jumwa Katana does not represent any of these organizations, raising questions about the adherence to statutory provisions in her appointment.”
The IEK also highlighted the need for technical expertise in KRB’s leadership, given the Board’s mandate to oversee road development, maintenance, and infrastructure management. The organization noted that such responsibilities require hands-on experience in civil, structural, or transport engineering to address the technical aspects of the Board’s work.
“The appointment of an engineering professional with a background in civil, structural, or transport engineering would provide essential expertise in handling the technical aspects of the board’s responsibilities,” read the statement signed by IEK President Eng. Shammah Kiteme.
The IEK emphasized that compliance with legal requirements and the inclusion of engineering expertise are essential to strengthening the Board’s capacity to oversee complex infrastructure projects.
To ensure alignment with the Act, the IEK has urged the government to revoke the appointment of Hon. Katana and appoint a suitably qualified individual who meets the statutory requirements and brings technical expertise to the role.
