KeNHA appoints Luka Kimeli as new Director General
By Faith Lagat, February 18, 2026The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has appointed Eng. Luka Kipchumba Kimeli as its new Director General, effective February 17, 2026, following a competitive recruitment process conducted in line with the Kenya Roads Act, 2007 and public service procedures.
The appointment was announced in an internal staff communication dated February 18, 2026, issued by the KeNHA Board of Directors in consultation with the Cabinet Secretary for Roads and Transport. The notice was signed on behalf of Board Chairperson Ms. Winfrida Ngumi.
Kimeli has been serving as Acting Director General since July 2025. He succeeds Kung’u Ndung’u, who resigned from the position. The board noted that the recruitment process was competitive and transparent, conducted in accordance with the law and relevant public service guidelines.
With 27 years of experience in infrastructure development, strategic programme delivery and public sector leadership within the roads sub-sector, Kimeli brings extensive institutional knowledge to the role. His career includes senior leadership positions at the Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA) and participation in major national infrastructure projects.
Mandate and ongoing projects
KeNHA is mandated to manage, develop, rehabilitate and maintain Kenya’s national trunk roads. The authority oversees key transport corridors that support mobility, trade and economic activity across the country and the region.
Kimeli assumes office at a time when Kenya is implementing major road infrastructure projects, including the dualling of strategic corridors, upgrades to the Nairobi–Nakuru–Mau Summit highway and improvements to regional connectivity routes linking neighbouring countries. These projects are aimed at reducing congestion, improving safety and enhancing the movement of goods and people.
Board expresses confidence in leadership
The board expressed confidence in Kimeli’s ability to steer the authority towards greater efficiency, accountability and service delivery in highway infrastructure development.
It stated that his leadership is expected to support the delivery of safe, resilient and high-quality roads that contribute to national growth and regional integration.
The board also congratulated him on the appointment and assured him of its support as he assumes office.