Kenya National Highways Authority Opens Recruitment for 21 Permanent Staff to Overhaul National Road Network

The Kenya National Highways Authority has officially opened applications for 21 new positions under permanent and pensionable terms as the agency strengthens its internal capacity to manage the country's national trunk road network. This recruitment drive, announced this week, targets a broad spectrum of professionals ranging from senior legal directors to technical officers and administrative support staff.

Established under the Kenya Roads Act of 2007, the authority holds the primary mandate for the development, rehabilitation, and maintenance of all national trunk roads. As the government continues to prioritize major infrastructure corridors, including the expansion of the A8 and various regional bypasses, the need for robust oversight in land valuation, physical planning, and legal services has become increasingly critical.

The current vacancy list highlights a significant focus on the agency’s legal and technical departments. Among the senior roles is the position of Deputy Director for Legal Services at Grade 3. This is joined by multiple openings for Legal Officer II and Legal Clerk III positions. On the technical front, the authority is seeking Land Surveyors and GIS Officers to assist in the precise mapping and management of road reserves, alongside Physical Planners and Land Valuers.

Administrative and support functions are also being bolstered with vacancies for Business Development Officers, Human Resource Management Officers, and Corporate Communications Officers. The agency is also looking to fill roles for Security Officers and Assistant Records and Information Management Officers to ensure operational efficiency at its Barabara Plaza headquarters and regional offices.

Prospective candidates are required to submit their applications through official online portals, with the authority providing two distinct links based on the seniority of the role. The deadline for all submissions has been set for March 2, 2026, at 5.00 pm. The authority has emphasized that it is an equal opportunity employer and has encouraged women, persons with disabilities, and individuals from marginalized areas to apply.

In line with statutory requirements for public office in Kenya, shortlisted candidates will face a rigorous vetting process. Applicants must be prepared to present clearance certificates from the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission and the Kenya Revenue Authority. Furthermore, documentation from the Higher Education Loans Board, the National Police Service, and the Credit Reference Bureau will be mandatory during the interview stage.

The timing of these hires aligns with the authority’s broader strategy to enhance the durability and safety of the national road network. By integrating more specialized staff in land and legal departments, the agency aims to streamline the acquisition of wayleaves and the management of road assets, which are often the primary bottlenecks in large scale infrastructure projects.

While the initial application does not require the submission of integrity clearances, the authority has maintained a strict stance against canvassing, noting that any attempt to influence the recruitment process will lead to immediate disqualification. Only those who meet the specific requirements detailed in the official job specifications will be invited for the interview phase.