A high-level delegation from the World Bank and representatives from the Ministry of Roads and Transport met JKUAT Vice Chancellor, Prof. Victoria Ngumi at JKUAT to discuss potential areas of collaboration, Tuesday, March 4, 2025.
The main aim of the meeting was to identify opportunities for partnership and areas of mutual interest. The delegation also updated the university management on the progress of the Horn of Africa Gateway Development Project (HOAGDP, M&E), Monitoring and Evaluation, a key initiative in which JKUAT, is one of the key players involved in the project.
The World Bank-funded project, implemented through the Ministry of Roads and Transport, seeks to improve the movement of people and goods, as well as enhance digital connectivity along key sections of the Isiolo–Mandera Regional Road Corridor. In addition to upgrading infrastructure, the project aims to strengthen the capacity of selected transportation authorities and infrastructure organizations across Kenya.
Welcoming the delegation, Prof. Ngumi expressed her enthusiasm for the project, highlighting its potential to significantly improve both the university’s infrastructure and the broader transportation sector.
The Vice Chancellor emphasized that the collaboration would create valuable opportunities for students and faculty to engage in cutting-edge research and development, further bridging the gap between academia and industry.
“We believe this collaboration will open up new areas of partnership and create meaningful opportunities,” said Prof. Ngumi.
Prof. Ngumi also commended the World Bank for its critical support, recognizing the vital role their funding plays in advancing infrastructure and capacity building projects across Kenya.
Mr. Josphat Sasia, Lead Transport Specialist in the World Bank’s Infrastructure Practice Group, outlined the project’s objectives, noting that it aims to enhance regional connectivity, improve transport system efficiency, and promote sustainable infrastructure development.
He noted that the collaboration will benefit not only the targeted regions, but also contribute to broader economic growth and development across Kenya.
“The World Bank is keen for institutions of higher learning to be actively involved in these projects, as they play a crucial role in driving innovation, research, and capacity building within the transportation sector,” said Mr. Sasia.
The Chair of JKUAT’s Council, Dr. Micah Onsando, commended the World Bank’s support, emphasizing its crucial role in advancing key infrastructure and development initiatives. He acknowledged the important capacity-building opportunities for university researchers that the project brings.
Eng. James Theuri, Project Coordinator at the Ministry of Roads and Transport, assured the delegation of the ministry’s commitment to support the project and ensure its successful implementation, stating that, “This initiative aligns with our goals of improving national infrastructure and enhancing regional connectivity.”
Eng. Theuri also lauded the expertise provided by JKUAT noting that the university’s involvement brings on board invaluable knowledge and skills.
During the visit, the delegation held meaningful discussions with staff from the College of Engineering and Technology (COETEC) and explored potential areas where JKUAT can partner with the World Bank and the Ministry of Roads and Transport to enhance the capacity of the university labs and engineering workshops.
