Why Engineers Body Want Aisha Jumwa Appointment Revoked

The Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) wants the appointment of former cabinet secretary, Aisha Jumwa as the chairperson of Kenya Roads Board to be revoked with immediate effect.

Through its President Shammah Kiteme, the institution argues that Jumwa’s appointment contravenes the KRB Act as she is not a member of the Institution of Engineers of Kenya, the Automobile Association of Kenya, the Kenya Association of Manufacturers, the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya and the Kenya Transport Association as listed in the First Schedule of the act.

“The Act mandates that the non-executive chairman be appointed from among the members nominated by the organizations listed in the First Schedule. However, Hon. Aisha Jumwa Katana does not represent any of these organizations, raising questions about the adherence to statutory provisions in her appointment,” said Kiteme.

IEK has further contested the appointment of the former cabinet secretary for public service on the basis that the position ought to be filled by a person with background in engineering field which Jumwa does not have.

Given that the core mandate of KRB revolves around road development, maintenance, and overall infrastructure management, the appointment of an engineering professional preferably someone with a background in civil, structural, or transport engineering could provide essential expertise in handling the technical aspects of the board’s responsibilities,” he added.

Information available online indicates that Jumwa holds Bachelor’s Degree in Leadership and Management from International Leadership University (ILU) and Executive Diploma in Governance from the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology.

Jumwa who is also a former Member of Parliament for Malindi Constituency and Woman Representative for Kilifi County was appointed by President William Ruto to chair the board through a gazette notice dated January 17, 2025.

According to IEK, the position requires an individual with hands-on engineering experience would possess the necessary skills and insights to lead the board in achieving its objectives.