The following opinion piece is by Jack Okinyi, a media consultant.

“Murder your darlings” is a popular advice on writing skills that is oft attributed to William Cuthbert Faulkner, an American writer and Nobel Laureate. This expression does not in any way suggest that literally killing your kids or people you care about will make you a better writer.

Rather, it is a metaphor for just how you should act while revising your writing. The idea is to proceed objectively and without sentiment. Just like you would if you were to kill a loved one.

In other words, the writer must be alive to the dangers of him using personal favourite elements which may hold special meaning to him but can cause readers to roll their eyes in disgust.

The same advice is opportune for anyone involved in the torturous business of growing sugarcane and processing sugar in Kenya. It can also apply to the incurable romantics trying to save the “Pride of Africa” – Kenya Airways.

Both issues have attracted a lot of comment, mostly emotional and us-versus-them grandstanding that has become symptomatic of the state of political and economic discourse in the country.

Allow me to address the sugar industry issue because I am somewhat a stakeholder given that the South Nyanza (SONY) Sugar Factory in Awendo, Migori County is merely two kilometres from my rural home.

Also, my immediate family, relatives, village mates and virtually all residents of Awendo constituency depend on the sugar industry in one way or the other.

That the setting up of the SONY Sugar Factory in 1979 tremendously altered the economic status of my home area cannot be gainsaid. Everyone I know of has benefited from sugarcane farming, the first commercial farming venture in South Nyanza.

Before then, Awendo town was a trading centre with less than a dozen shops. My village was just a typical rural setting with hundreds grass thatched houses and few corrugated iron sheet roofs.

Some 30 years or so later, my village is truly middle class. Long metallic poles hoisting TV aerials are found in virtually home. Red tiled roofs and colourful iron sheets have replaced the grass as a roofing solution. Good schools like Sony Complex have also come up.

My village actually experienced rural electrification more than 30 years ago, thanks to it being close to SONY.

However, sugarcane farming needs euthanasia now. Why?

Sugarcane takes at least 18 months to mature but you will be lucky if your cane is harvested within 24 months. Then, wait at least another six months to be paid.

A well husbanded farm gets you some 40-45 tonnes of sugarcane per acre. The factory pays only Sh3,000 per tonne gross.

Then it deducts a large chunk for services like land tilling, providing seed cane, fertilizer, harvesting and transport (provided your weeded the farm yourself).

Another animal by the name Sony Outgrowers Company (SOC) also takes a percentage of your earnings for god knows why.

After 30 months of toiling, you take home something between Sh60,000 and Sh80,000 per acre.

That translates to about Sh2,000 per month. Yes that’s right.

Now show me a person in this country can feed and school his family on Sh2,000 a month and I will show you a magician.

Growing tea, coffee, potatoes, maize, beans, kunde, mrenda, tomatoes soya beans or even nappier grass will earn my villagers 10 times more if they abandoned this sugarcane madness.

That is why the time is ripe for my villagers and other suffering farmers to get serious with life and rid their farms of sugarcane.

The sugar industry benefits no one in Kenya. The farmers are suffering from low returns. The government wastes money year in year out bailing collapsing sugar factories and other Kenyans are forced consume ridiculously expensive sugar to sustain the loss making industry.

Let us stop this sentimental archaism. We can do better than engage is this sugar producing business.

The Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) is a State Corporation under the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure established by the Kenya Roads Act, 2007 with the core mandate of management, development, rehabilitation and maintenance of all public roads in the cities and municipalities in Kenya except where those roads are national roads.

As the leading Government Agency with the above mandate, we wish to competitively fill the below position from a suitably qualified Kenyan as follows:

Corporate Affairs Officer
Ref: KURA/CA/CAO/15/01
JG 5 (1 Post)

The successful candidate will report to the Chief Corporate Affairs Officer.
Job Summary: The holder will be providing technical support in film production, preparation of presentation, photography and archiving of information.

Duties and Responsibilities
• Provide technical support in the design of KURA website and digital newsletters/email advertising;
• Undertake graphic design development for Information Education and Communication(IEC) materials;
• Design layouts for publications such as newsletters, brochures, adverts bulletins, Cards, billboards, safety signs and signage;
• Filming(recording)/ Photographing of KURA functions &activities;
• Production of documentaries, video editing and review of Authority adverts;
• Archiving of film and photographic records and other documentaries; and
• Performance of any other lawful duties as may be assigned from time to time.

Qualifications
Appointment to the position will be made from persons who:
• Bachelor’s degree in Communication, Business or Social Science from a recognized University;
• A diploma in fine art/graphic design;
• Advanced program in 3D/2D design;
• At least Four (4) years relevant working experience in a similar position
• Proficiency in graphical designing through adobe Photoshop Suite, dreamweaver, freehand, illustrator, InDesign and Quark Xpress;
• Advanced Certificate in Photography /Film/television/Communication design are added advantage; and
• Knowledge about press and electronic media, offset and large format printing is added advantage.
• Must be creative, have knowledge of industry software with a professional approach to issues.

Security Officer
Ref: KURA/F & A/SO/15/09, JG 5
[1 Post]

The successful candidate will report to the Manager Human Resource & Administration.
Job Summary: The job holder will be in charge of all security matters in the Authority.

Key Responsibilities
• Formulate and implement the Authority’s security policies, strategies, standards and procedures.
• Identify all security risk areas and develop better operational methods to mitigate the risks.
• Overseeing availability of appropriate security within the premises.
• Carry out security audits and surveys, review security processes, procedures, contingency plans and control in compliance with the set security standards.
• Manage the incident reporting process to track trends and develop effective responses.
• Assist in the selection and management of third party security providers through clear and measurable service level agreements.
• Provide guidance in high level investigations to all reported cases against the Authority’s employees and property.
• Ensure proper administration of departmental personnel and resources with the aim of managing costs within the approved budgets.
• Liaise with relevant Government departments, police, local administrators, neighborhood security institutions in handling security issues with Authority.
• Develop, implement and supervise security emergency action plans.
• Liaise with the contracted security firm on day to day security matters of the Authority.

Qualifications and Competencies
• Degree in Security Management/Administration or Social Sciences or equivalent from a recognized university.
• Diploma in Criminology or its equivalent.
• Relevant training on investigations from CID Training School or equivalent.
• Relevant Management courses are an added advantage.
• Demonstrate working knowledge in ICT.
• Five (5) years working experience in a relevant field.
• Emphasis shall be placed on the physical and emotional maturity required for the high degree of judgment and diplomacy necessary to work efficiently.
• Strong interpersonal & communication skills with management and leadership skills.
• Demonstrated ability to build cohesive teams and achieve set targets through team work.
• Have general knowledge of Kenyan Laws and Government regulations pertaining to law enforcement.

Senior Procurement Officer
Ref: KURA/F & A/SPO/15/08,
JG 6
[1 Post]

The successful candidate will report to Chief Procurement Officer
Job Summary: The job holder will assist the Chief Procurement Officer in providing support to Head of Procurement in procurement related matters to ensure understanding of, and compliance with the applicable law, policies and procedures of the Authority.

Key Responsibilities
• To lead, coordinate and help develop consolidated annual procurement plan
• Responsible for following the policies and procedures as defined in the Authority policy guidelines.
• Supervising, scheduling the work of, professionally developing, and evaluating the performance of the procurement officers.
• Responsible for preparing contracts and purchase orders within the guidelines of the applicable laws, procedures and policies in place.
• With approval of the Head of Procurement, responsible for consulting with the Authority’s Legal Manager or other approved legal counsel regarding the legality of proposed procurement contracts.
• Responsible for providing administrative support for all procurements and maintaining the official contract files.
• Responsible for ensuring purchasing orders and/or contracts are authorized in accordance with approval matrix in place.
• Participating fully in opening, tendering processing, negotiations and contract management.
• Reviewing and approving the various procurement reports prepared by Procurement Officers including quarterly and annual reports.
• Develop and maintain positive relationships with both existing and new suppliers and contractors.
• Take an active lead in introduction, development and implementation of best procurement practices.
• Manage staff within Procurement Department.

Qualifications and Competencies

• Bachelor’s degree in Purchasing and Supplies Management or in Business related field from a recognized institution
• Diploma in Purchasing & Supplies Management from a recognized institution.
• At least Five (5) years’ working experience in the field of procurement and Three (3) years in similar position or supervisory level.
• Working knowledge in Public Procurement and Disposal procedures as contained in the Public Procurement and Disposal Act 2005 and Regulation 2006 as well as development partners.
• A member of the Kenya Institute of Supplies Management (KISM) or CIPS – Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supplies or a recognized institution.
• Ability to work under pressure and minimum supervision.
• Demonstrate working knowledge in ICT.
• Good analytical, communication and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to build cohesive teams and adhere to set targets through team work.

Senior Accountant
Ref: KURA/F & A/SA/15/07,
JG 6 [1 Post]

The successful candidate will report to the Chief Accountant.
Job Summary: The overall responsibility of the position will be to ensure proper functioning of the General Ledger & Accounts payable.

Key Responsibilities
• Processing of Authority’s payments (LSO & LPO) and other disbursements.
• Preparation and monitoring of monthly, quarterly and annual financial reports and budgets for various recurrent expenditure items by undertaking variance analysis.
• Assist in the preparation of periodic financial accounts by ensuring accurate Trial Balance and General Ledger accounts payable.
• Verifying authenticity of financial transactions.
• Timely remittance of statutory deductions.
• Preparation of withheld tax certificates and their timely remittance to KRA.
• Filing and safe custody of Authority’s payment and journal vouchers.
• Coordinating of responses to audit queries

Qualifications and Competence
• Bachelor of Commerce Degree (Finance or Accounting Option) or Business Administration or its equivalent from a recognized university.
• Have full accounting qualifications (CA, ACCA, CPA or an equivalent qualification).
• Member of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK) or a recognized relevant professional body.
• Minimum of Five (5) years relevant working experience and Three (3) years in a similar position/supervisory level.
• Knowledge of computerized accounting systems.
• Strong interpersonal & communication skills with management and leadership skills.
• Demonstrated ability to build cohesive teams and achieve set targets through team work.

Senior Surveyor
Ref: KURA/D & C/SS/15/01,
JG 6 (2 Posts)

The successful candidate will report to the Chief Surveyor.
Job summary: Assist in the formulation and implementation of survey policies and procedures.

Duties and Responsibilities
• Preparation of survey annual work plans
• Provision of survey data during feasibility studies and final design
• Identification of road reserves and mapping of the roads in the assigned region
• Identification of survey requirements and standards for specific areas
• Preparation of survey specification and terms of reference for survey works to be contracted out
• Supervision of civil works during construction

Qualifications
• Appointment to the position will be made from persons who:
• Hold Bachelor Degree in Surveying and photogrammetry or equivalent qualification from a recognized university;
• Are members of Institution of Surveyors of Kenya (ISK);
• Minimum of Five (5) years relevant working experience at a similar position or at a supervisory level.
• Are conversant with modern survey equipment (GPS, Total Station etc.); and
• Are competent in computer Aided design (CAD), GIS and Image processing software.

Chief Administration Officer
Ref: KURA/F & A/CAO/15/05,
JG 7 [1 Post]

The successful candidate will report to the Manager (Human Resource & Administration)
Job Summary: The job holder will be managing, coordinating and administering all the Administration and Management Support functions and policies relating to employees, so as to ensure enhanced productivity.

Key Responsibilities
• Ensure effective and efficient performance of administration related activities including transport, office space, meetings scheduling, administrative staff management, contracted/outsourced workers management, security and general office supplies e.t.c.
• Facilitate mobility and up to date maintenance of the Authority’s fleet and buildings.
• Ensure up to date maintenance of the Authority’s vehicle records and renewal of various licenses and insurance covers.
• Provide administrative assistance to the regions and serve as a link person for broader administration support between the headquarters and regional offices.
• Ensure proper staff and administrative records.
• Coordinate responses to emergencies e.g. electricity failures, water, leakages, defective locks e.t.c. with approved service providers.
• Coordinate provision of office supplies to officers.
• Ensure adequate supervision of transport personnel.
• Coordinate and advise on general outsourcing requirements for HR and administration services.

Qualifications and Competencies
• A Social Science Degree from a recognized university.
• Membership to relevant professional body essential.
• Minimum Six (6) years relevant working experience and Three (3) years of which should be at supervisory level/management.
• Training in occupational health and safety is an added advantage.
• Knowledge of transport/fleet management and asset management.
• Computer proficiency.
• Must possess analytical and problem solving skills.
• Strong interpersonal relations and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to build cohesive teams and achieve set targets through team work

Senior Administration Officer
Ref: KURA/F & A/SAO/15/06
JG 6
[1 Post]

The successful candidate will report to the Chief Administration Officer.
Job Summary: The job holder will assist in effectively managing, coordinating and administering all the Administration and Management Support functions and policies relating to employees, so as to ensure enhanced productivity.

Key Responsibilities
• Ensure that timely and efficient services are provided to the Authority in the areas of general administration and property maintenance.
• Overseeing the maintenance of the Authority’s fleet and buildings
• Facilitate upto date maintenance of the Authority’s vehicle records and renewal of the various licenses and insurance covers
• Provide administrative assistance to the regions and serve as a link person for broader administration support between the headquarters and regional offices
• Undertake reviews of, and maintain the Authority’s administrative procedures and provide advice and recommendations regarding their further development or improvement.
• Maintain proper administrative records
• Lead and manage the Administration Team and encourage improvement and development.
• Prepare and manage the annual budget of the Administration Unit.
• Oversee the provision of assistance for conferences and meetings as required.
• Ensuring optimal utilization of Authority’s resources including offices, stationery, consumables, vehicles among others.

Qualifications and Competence
• Degree in social sciences from a recognized university.
• Membership to a relevant professional body essential.
• Minimum Five (5) years relevant working experience at supervisory level/management level.
• Knowledge in occupational health and safety is an added advantage.
• Demonstrate working knowledge of ICT.
• Knowledge in asset management.
• Strong interpersonal & communication skills with management and leadership skills.
• Demonstrated ability to build cohesive teams and achieve set targets through team work.

Chief Human Resource Officer
Ref: KURA/F & A/CHRO/15/04
JG 7
(1 Post)
The successful candidate will report to the Head of Human Resource and Administration.
Job Summary: To effectively manage, coordinate and administer all the Human Resource functions and policies relating to employees, so as to ensure peaceful industrial relations and enhanced productivity.

Duties and Responsibilities
• Interpreting and implementing human resource policies, procedures, rules and regulations;
• Deputize the Human Resource and Administration Manager in performance management related activities including performance review meetings, disciplinary committee meetings, team building etc;
• Providing guidance on matters related to appointments, promotions and confirmation of staff;
• Plan, co-ordinate and prepare reports pertaining to the Departments Performance Contract obligations;
• Organize induction, circulation programs and group-training sessions (in liaison with relevant HR committees) to enable employees manage the transition to new assignments and to cope with the demands of the Strategic Plan and Performance Contract;
• Coordinate identification of training needs among the staff and recommending suitable training programmes;
• Designing & implementing management and organizational development programs;
• Designing systems for appraising the performance of individual staff;
• Assisting employees in developing career plans;
• Overseeing the management of staff personal details;
• Designing and implementing compensation and benefits systems for all staff;
• Ensuring that compensation and benefits are fair and consistent;
• Managing discipline and grievance handling systems;
• Managing provision of employee welfare facilities;
• Ensuring safety and health of employees;
• Designing / developing systems to ensure employee safety and health (employee wellbeing);
• Liaise with affiliate Ministries, to ensure adherence to required labour practices and government requirements;
• Manage and maintain peaceful Industrial relations in liaison with relevant Stakeholders;
• Oversee the management of Authority’s payroll administration;
• Make preparations for job evaluation exercises, help in the administration of the same, assist in developing supervisory skills for appraisal interviews, and analyze appraisal forms & co-ordinate recommendations from a selected committee;
• Providing assistance to employees with personal problems that influence their work performance e.g. counseling

Qualifications
• Appointment to the position will be made from persons who:
• Hold bachelor’s degree in human resource management, social sciences or business administration or its equivalent from a recognized University;
• Have a diploma in Human Resources or CPS III or its equivalent qualifications;
• Are members of the Institute of Human Resource Management (IHRM) or a relevant recognized professional body;
• Have computer proficiency and ability to operate Human Resource Information System;
• Have experience and knowledge of employment laws, procedures and policies; and
• Have ability to maintain professionalism and keep abreast with emerging trends in Human Resource Management.
• Have relevant working experience with similar responsibilities in like organizations for a minimum of Six (6) years; Three (3) of which should be in Supervisory level/management.
• Knowledge of ERP System is an added advantage.

Chief Internal Auditor
Ref: KURA/IA/CIA/15/01
JG 7
[1 Post]
The successful candidate will report to the Manager Internal Audit.
Job Summary: Assisting the Manager in setting up and maintaining sound internal control management systems in the Authority.

Duties and Responsibilities
• Development of internal audit policies and procedures;
• Coordinating the operations of the Internal Audit department;
• Assessing internal controls to mitigate business and operational risks;
• Advising management on effective controls and fraud prevention measures;
• Liaising with external auditors on the annual audits and ensuring that the audit reports are implemented;
• Designing internal audits in compliance with conventional audit guidelines and best practices;
• Presenting periodic assurance audit reports to the Audit Committee of the Board;
• Assessing the reliability and integrity of financial and operating information and compliance with set operating and ISO policies and procedures;
• Reviewing all reports submitted by various sections to confirm the accuracy and correctness of figures included therein;
• Ensuring maintenance of high audit standards of performance in the Division;
• Undertaking risk assessment and advising Authority on the same;
• Undertaking a variety of audit assignments relating to pre-audit of payments, evaluation and review of internal control systems;
• Ensuring that audit trails are in place and that all entries have supporting documents;
• Conducting special investigations as may be required from time to time; and
• Performance of any other lawful duties as may be assigned from time to time.

Qualifications
• Appointment to the position will be made from persons who:
• Hold a Bachelor of Commerce Degree in Finance, Accounting/Business Administration or its equivalent from a recognized university
• Are Certified Public Accountant (CPA) (K) or its equivalent; CISA certified information system Auditor or CIA (Certified Internal Auditor)
• Have relevant working experience with similar responsibilities in like organizations for a minimum of six (6) years; 3 of which are in a supervisory role.
• Are members of Institute of Certified Public Accountants (ICPAK), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) or the Institute of Internal Audit (IIA);
• Ability to work under pressure and with minimum supervision;
• Excellent computer skills; knowledge of ERP is an added advantage.
• Demonstrated outstanding leadership capability;
• A high degree of integrity and dependability; and
• Good interpersonal relations and communication skills

Senior Internal Auditor
Ref: KURA/IA/SIA/15/02
JG 6
(1 Post)
The successful candidate will report to the Chief Internal Auditor.
Job Summary: Assisting in setting up and maintaining sound internal control management systems in the Authority.

Duties and Responsibilities
• Executing internal audits in compliance with conventional audit guidelines and best practices;
• Assessing the reliability and integrity of financial and operating information and compliance with set policies;
• Preparing and implementing the annual audit plan for financial audit.
• Reviewing and appraising the internal control system to ascertain its adequacy and effectiveness;
• Reviewing financial statements before submission to the Board and the Kenya National Audit Office or any other appointed External Auditor;
• Conducting physical verifications of KURA’s assets to ascertain their existence and the system of safeguarding them;
• Identifying, where appropriate, areas of risks, fraud or malpractice and initiating investigations;
• Preparing audit reports on all audit findings and making recommendations to improve compliance with standards;
• Following up the implementation of the recommendations of the Kenya National Audit Office;
• Reviewing all reports submitted by various sections to confirm the accuracy and correctness of figures included therein;
• Ensuring that audit trails are in place and thus all entries have supporting documents

Qualifications
• Appointment to the position will be made from persons who:
• Hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration or any other relevant qualification from a recognized university;
• Are Certified Public Accountant (CPA (K)) or its equivalent;
• Satisfactorily served in a comparable position with similar responsibilities in like organizations for a minimum period of Five (5) years, three (3) of which should be in supervisory level;
• Are members of Institute of Certified Public Accountants (ICPAK), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) or Institute of Internal Audit (IIA);
• Ability to work under pressure and with minimum supervision;
• Excellent computer skills; knowledge of ERP Systems is an added advantage.
• A high degree of integrity and dependability; and
• Good interpersonal relations and communication skills

Senior Electrical Engineer
Ref: KURA/P & E/SEE/15/01
JG 7
(1 Post)
The successful candidate will report to the General Manager/Planning & Environment.
Job Summary: The job holder will be responsible for all electrical requirements related to road construction and maintenance

Duties and Responsibilities:
• Prepare electrical designs for various projects as required by the Authority
• Analyze complex electrical engineering problems and offer effective resolutions
• Creation and management of the electrical scope of work for the Authority
• Sizing of overall electrical system
• Specification, selection and purchase of all electrical equipment to meet the Authority requirements
• Oversee development of detailed design drawings including one line diagrams, plans, details, wiring diagrams and fabrication drawings
• Develop and maintain labour and material estimates for projects.
• Preparation of bills of quantities for various electrical appliances and other related projects
• Design and implement strategies for continuous operational efficiency and Sustainability power infrastructural facilities

Qualifications & Skills
Appointment to this position will be made from persons who:
• Hold a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or its equivalent from a recognized university
• Have Six (6) years relevant working experience.
• Have been registered by Engineers Board of Kenya as a Professional Engineer.
• Able to work effectively with a wide spectrum of people
• Have good communication and interpersonal skills and
• Are proficient in ICT use

Senior Engineer (Roads)
Ref: KURA/MNT/SE/15/02
JG 7
[7 Posts]

The successful candidates will report to the Respective Manager/Regional Manager.
Job Summary: The job holder will be responsible for entire roads project life cycle to include design, construction, maintenance and project completion

Key Responsibilities
• Assist in undertaking works in the fields of quality assurance, Axle Load Control, Planning, design, construction, maintenance and structures.
• Prepare engineering analysis of urban road projects to include: feasibility studies, detailed design, life cycle, cost and equipment selection.
• Perform all functions related to new projects design/ development, focusing on emerging priority urban needs.
• Prepare and interpret blueprints, drawings, layouts and other visual aids.
• Prepare construction specifications.
• Perform engineering duties surrounding the following; roads, public works, sub- divisions, drainage, traffic, tunnel, bridge and environmental management systems.
• Preparation of Road Works documents.
• Management of project issues, budgets and programmes.
• Assist in the review and critique of proposed changes to urban road engineering standards, policies or details.
• Review project/ programme performance in terms of achieving physical and financial targets and attainment of projects/ programme target goals.
• Assist in the review of development plans for compliance with adopted road engineering standards and best engineering practices.
• Prepare detailed scopes of work for technical assistance and training needs for the department and explore various options for procurement of such services.
• Meet with the general public and/or developers, landowners, and interest groups concerning zoning, subdivision of projects, building projects, and engineering regulations, standards, or policies.
• Assist in coordinating the activities of the design and construction teams.

Qualifications and Competencies
• Degree in Civil Engineering or its equivalent from a recognized institution.
• Registered Engineer with Engineers Board of Kenya.
• Be a member of Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK).
• Six (6) years’ experience, in road design, construction and/or maintenance.
• Demonstrable knowledge in planning, design, construction and maintenance of roads.
• Demonstrable knowledge of public procurement systems and processes as used by the Government of Kenya, multilateral and bilateral development partners.
• Ability to manage staff and provide good leadership.
• Working ICT knowledge for road management system.
• Experience in the Ministry of Local Government, Local Authorities and/or Ministry of Roads will be an added advantage.
• Strong interpersonal relations and good communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to build cohesive teams and achieve set targets through team work.

Assistant Engineer
Ref: KURA/MNT/AE/15/03
JG 5
(5 Posts)
The successful candidate will report to the Engineer.
Job Summary: Assist in construction and maintenance of road works, project contract documentation and management.

Duties and Responsibilities
• Preparing Engineering Analysis of urban roads projects to include: preliminary design, life cycle cost and equipment selection;
• Conducting surveys to gather field data;
• Preparing and interpreting blueprints, drawings, layouts and other visual aids;
• Preparing construction specifications;
• Performing engineering duties surrounding the following; roads, public works, sub-divisions, drainage, traffic, tunnel, bridge and environmental management systems;
• Preparing of road work documents;
• Managing project issues, budgets and schedules;
• Assisting in the review and critique of proposed changes to urban roads engineering standards, policies or details;
• Assisting in the review of development plans for compliance with adopted roads engineering standards and good engineering practices;
• Meeting with the general public and or developers, landowners and interest groups concerning zoning, subdivision projects, building projects and engineering regulations, standards or policies.
• Assisting in coordinating the activities of the design and construction teams; and
• Performance of any other duties as may be assigned from time to time.

Qualifications
Appointment to the position will be made from persons who:
• Have a Degree in civil engineering or its equivalent from a recognized University;
• Are registered as graduate engineers with Engineers Board of Kenya (EBK);
• At least a minimum of One (1) year post registration (graduate Engineer) experience
• Good communication skills as well as interpersonal skills; and
• Basic ICT knowledge.

Superintendent (Electrical)
Ref: KURA/P & E/SUPT.E/15/02
JG 4
(1 Post)
The successful candidate will report to the Senior Electrical Engineer.
Job Summary: The job holder will assist in ensuring all electrical requirements pertaining to Road Construction and maintenance have been met.

Duties and Responsibilities
• Assisting in utilization of funds allocated in the assigned region;
• Supervision of all electrical installations and maintenance works on roads infrastructure
• Preparation of work programs as pertaining to electrical installations on roads and
• Performance of any other lawful duty as may be assigned from time to time.

Qualifications
• Appointment to the position will be made from persons who:
• Have a Diploma in Electrical Engineering or its equivalent from a recognized institution;
• Have an Electricians license issued by Energy Regulatory Commission class C2.
• Have satisfactorily worked as an electrician for at least Five (5) years.
• Demonstrated competence and ability in interpretation of electrical drawings and supervision of electrical installations and maintenance services;
• Have good communication skills as well as interpersonal skills; and
• Have proficiency in computer applications.

Manager Roads
Ref: KURA/MNT/MR/15/01
JG 8
[2 Posts]
The successful candidate will report to the General Manager (Maintenance).
Job Summary: The incumbent will be responsible for entire roads project life cycle to include design, construction, and maintenance and project completion.
Performance of any other duties as assigned by the General Manager (Maintenance)

Key Responsibilities
• Be responsible for the Road Project cycle which includes planning, design, construction and maintenance.
• The person shall be responsible for all the resources within his/ her section which includes funds, equipment and human capital.
• Monitor and coordinate field operations to ensure compliance with the set standards and specs.
• The person may be designated as a Regional Manager in any of the Authority’s regional offices.
• The person may be designated as a Project Manager in any of the Authority’s special projects.
• Ensuring review of development plans for compliance with adopted road engineering standards and good engineering practices.
• Responsible for implementation of the policies of the Authority.
• Preparing annual work programs, budgets and procurement plans.
• Supervision of road works and services.
• Carrying out of general administration

Qualifications and Competencies
• Degree in Civil Engineering or its equivalent from a recognized institution.
• Registered Engineer with the Engineers Board of Kenya.
• Working ICT knowledge for road management systems.
• Be a member of Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK).
• Experience in the Ministry of Local Government, Local Authorities and /or Ministry of Roads will be an added advantage.
• Experience in Labour Based Works.
• Seven (7) years post registration experience and Three (3) years in a Senior Management position with relevant experience and responsibility.
• Demonstrable knowledge in planning, design, construction and maintenance of roads.
• Demonstrable knowledge of public procurement systems and processes as used by the Government of Kenya, multilateral and bilateral development partners.
• Strong interpersonal relations and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to build cohesive teams and achieve set targets through team work.

Manager Procurement
Ref: KURA/F & A/MP/15/03
JG 8
(1 Post)
The successful candidate will be the Head of Procurement Department reporting to the Director General.
Job Summary: The job holder will be responsible for all procurement and disposal functions and operations of the Authority.

Duties and Responsibilities
• Formulating and ensuring implementation of procurement policies, regulations and procedures;
• Organizing and managing of the procurement function and ensuring proper interpretation of procurement policies;
• Overseeing operationalization and implementation of all procurement laws, regulations and guidelines applicable in the tendering process;
• Advising on procurement policies and ensuring that sound procurement processes are applied to all procurement transactions in the Authority;
• Overseeing preparation of periodic procurement reports;
• Overseeing preparation of required tender notices and advertisements;
• Participating in tender committees and assisting in the preparation of committee report;
• Overseeing pre-qualifying of suppliers;
• Coordinating preparation of annual procurement plan of goods and services within the Authority;
• Coordinating the evaluation of tender documents and presentation to tender committee for adjudication;
• Overseeing payment of suppliers of goods and services;
• Providing secretarial services to the tender committee

Qualifications
• Appointment to the position will be made from persons who:
• Have Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management/Procurement or its equivalent from a recognized University;
• Have both diploma and graduate diploma in Supplies/ Procurement Management from Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supplies (CIPS) level 4 – 6 or its equivalent from a recognized Institution;
• Membership to the CIPS or Kenya Institute of Supplies Management (KISM) or an recognized relevant professional body;
• Minimum of Seven (7) years post qualification experience and Three (3) years in a Senior Management position with relevant experience and responsibility.
• Registered member with KISM;
• Have knowledge of public procurement systems and processes as used by the Government of Kenya, multilateral and bilateral development partners; knowledge of ERP System is an added advantage
• Have strong verbal, interpersonal and written communication skills; and
• Have high degree of integrity.

Manager ICT
Ref: KURA/F & A/MICT/15/02
JG 8
[1 Post]
The successful candidate will be the Head of ICT Department reporting to the General Manager (Finance & Administration).
Job Summary: The job holder will be responsible for ensuring timely provision of ICT service to all functions of the Authority and ensuring implementation of well-coordinated systems with sufficient controls in all functions of the Authority.

Duties and Responsibilities
• Formulating, interpreting and ensuring application of ICT policies, procedures, rules and regulations within the Authority;
• Providing appropriate information and guidance on emerging and best practices in ICT;
• Overseeing the Authority’s network and liaising with ICT suppliers and support services providers;
• Developing and motivating an innovative and inspired ICT team and re-evaluating their skills and output to ensure delivery of results;
• Ensuring timely provision of ICT service to all functions of the Authority;
• Ensuring implementation of a well-coordinated system(s) with sufficient controls in all functions of the Authority;
• Overseeing database administration, data backups and recovery procedures;
• Ensuring effective and efficient use of ICT resources within the Authority;
• Overseeing proper maintenance of ICT related equipment;
• Coordinating, developing and overseeing the upgrading of websites

Qualifications
• Appointment to the position will be made from persons who:
• Hold a degree in Computer Science or Information Technology or its equivalent from a recognized university;
• Have MCSE or CCNA or database administrator diploma or its equivalent from a recognized institution;
• Have a minimum of Seven (7) years post qualification experience and Three (3) years in a senior management position with relevant experience and responsibility.
• Have good communication and leadership skills;
• Have strong interpersonal, negotiation and communication skills;
• Have a high degree of integrity and dependability; and
• Have demonstrated high management capability and competence in computerized information systems.

Manager (Finance)
Ref: KURA/F & A/MF/15/01
JG 8
[1 Post]
The successful candidate will be the Head of Finance Department reporting to the General Manager (Finance & Administration)
Job Summary: The job holder will be responsible for the planning, developing and evaluating financial policies, procedures, practices and systems as well as budgeting and financial resources control.

Key Responsibilities
• Formulating and implementing financial and accounting policies, regulations and procedures.
• Ensuring prudent financial management in the Authority.
• Preparing financial reports and ensuring that management information is accurate, adequate and reliable for decision making.
• Ensuring the Authority’s assets and liabilities are safeguarded and recorded correctly.
• Co-ordinating budgeting and budgeting control procedures, managing recurrent and capital expenditure and preparing, analyzing and interpreting various reports e.g. performance contracts and strategic plans.
• Ensuring timely preparation of accurate financial statements and reports.
• Ensure tax compliance and timely statutory returns.
• Overseeing custody and control of accountable documents.
• Provide leadership to the Finance team so as to achieve the Authority’s goals and objectives.

Qualifications and Competencies
The ideal candidate will have the following qualifications and competencies;
• Bachelor’s degree in Commerce (Finance or Accounting option) or Business Administration or a degree in a related field from a recognized university.
• Full accounting qualifications (CA, ACCA, CPA or an equivalent qualification).
• Working knowledge of computerized accounting system (ERP).
• Minimum of Seven (7) years post qualification experience and three (3) years in a senior management position with relevant experience and responsibility.
• Knowledge of public procurement is an added advantage.
• Must be a member of good standing with ICPAK.
• Demonstrate knowledge of IFRS & IAS.
• Strong interpersonal relations and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to build cohesive teams and achieve set targets through team work.

How to Apply
The successful candidates may be required to work either at the Headquarter Offices or any of the Regional Offices as the case may be.
Interested candidates are expected to fulfill the requirements of chapter six (6) of Kenya Constitution.
Specifically they must obtain and submit with their application copies of clearance certificate from the following organizations;
• Kenya Revenue Authority
• Higher Education Loans Board
• Ethics and Anti-corruption Commission
• Criminal Investigation Department (Certificate of Good Conduct)

Only candidates who meet the above criteria should submit applications in writing for the positions as well as filling the job application form (CLICK HERE to download) together with their updated CVs including details of their day time contacts, current and expected remuneration, notice period required to take up appointment where successful, names and contacts of three referees, while at the same time attaching copies of all certificates and testimonials to be hand delivered or mailed so as to reach the Director General at the address below not later than 8th September, 2015.

All envelopes/applications should have the respective job reference numbers clearly marked.
The Director General
Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA)
IKM Building, Bishops Road
P.O. Box 41727-00100, GPO,
Nairobi
[email protected]
Website: www.kura.go.ke
Only short listed candidates will be contacted.

Kenya Urban Roads Authority is an equal opportunity employer.

The Kenya Revenue Authority body is hiring in various departments and positions that include;

1. Records Management Supervisor – Candidates should have a Higher Diploma in Archives and Records Management or related with at least 3 years experience in records management.
2. Records Management Officer – The position is open to candidates with Diploma in Archives and Records Management or related and at least 1 year of relevant experience.
Related: How to apply for a Job once, and get it
3. Internal Audit Officer – Position requires candidates with Degree in Commerce, Accounting, Finance, Business Administration or related and at least 3 years experience. CPA, CISA, CISSP and CISM will be added advantage.
4. Procurement Officer – The position is open to candidates with a Degree in Procurement and Supplies, Diploma in Supplies Management CIPS, and be registered with KISM or equivalent.
5. Assistant Manager – Enforcement and Border Security – the position is looking for candidates with a degree in Criminology, Security Studies or relevant and at least 3 years experience in a security field.
6. Vetting Manager – the position is looking for candidates with a Masters Degree in Law or Social Sciences, understanding of employment relations ant at least 5 years experience in a managerial position.
7. Vetting Supervisor – Position is open to candidates with a Degree in Law or Social Science and 3 years experience in a similar organization.
8. Support, Telephone Services – The position is currently open in the Administration division and is looking for candidates with at least a certificate in telephone operations or equivalent and 2 years experience.
9. Chief Manager, Purchasing/Supply Chain – Candidates with a Masters degree in Procurement or business related studies and professional diploma in supplies management CIPS or equivalent and 8 years experience can apply.
10. Manager, Supply Chain Management – The position is open to candidates with a Degree in Procurement and Supplies or Business related and professional diploma in Supplies management or equivalent and 6 years experience. Masters will be an added advantage.
11. Assistant Manager, Procurement and Supplies – Candidates with a Degree in Procurement and Supplies or business related with advanced diploma in Supplies Management CIPS and 3 years experience are invited to apply.
12. Supervisor Procurement & Supplies –Applicants should have a Degree in Procurement and Supplies or Business related with 3 years experience in procurement.
13. Assistant Manager, Enterprise Risk Management – Candidates should have a Business Related degree in BCom, Economics, Business Admin, LLB or related and 33 years experience in middle level management.
14. Supervisor, Business Continuity Management – Applicants should have a business related degree in IT, Administration, Economics or related and 2 years experience.
15. Court Clerk – Candidates to the position should have a Diploma in Law or paralegal studies and 3 years experience in court service.
16. Data & Statistics Manager – Applicants should have a Masters Degree in Economics, Statistics or research and at least 5 years experience.
17. Policy & Planning Manager – Candidates should have a Masters degree in related field in Economics, Statistics and degree in Business related studies as well as 5 years experience.
18. Policy & Budget Supervisor – Applicants should have a Degree in Economics, Statistics or Business related and 5 years experience.
19. Officer-Research, Statistics and Corporate Planning – The position is open to candidates with Degree or Diploma in Statistics, Economics or Business related degree and 3 years experience.
20. Library Assistant Manager – Candidates should have a Degree in Information or Library Science or related and at least 3 years experience.
21. Library Supervisor – Applicants should have a Higher Diploma in Information or Library Science or related and at least 3 years experience.
22. Library Services Officer – candidates should have a Diploma in Information/Library Science or equivalent and at least 3 years experience in Library Services.
23. Library Services Support – The position is open in Nairobi and its regions and is seeking candidates with a Diploma in Information/Library Science or related and at least 1 year of experience.
24. Knowledge Management Assistant Manager – The position is looking for candidates with Degree in Business Administration or Economics and 3 years experience in a supervisory role.
25. Knowledge Management Supervisor – Position requires Higher Diploma in Information Science or related and at least 3 years experience.

How To Apply
If you fit the required profile please download the form for Employment from the KRA website HERE. Complete and submit to the address below to be received not later than 10th September, 2015 by close of business.
Deputy Commissioner, Human Resources
Kenya Revenue Authority
Times Tower Building, Haile Selassie Avenue
P. O. Box 48240 – 00100
Nairobi

Notes for applicants
1. Hard copy applications are to be submitted in sealed envelopes marked “Application” indicating respective position.
2. Applications may be delivered at Times Tower Building, Nairobi or sent by postal mail to the address above.
Hand delivered applications will be deposited in designated boxes on the Ground Floor of Times Tower Building.
3. Applications not containing the information stipulated above or those not meeting the prescribed criteria shall not be accepted.
4. Shortlisted candidates will be subjected to oral and or psychometric test interview. Only candidates who make it to the final selection list shall be contacted.
5. Canvassing shall lead to disqualification.
6. Those who may have previously served in KRA and left the organization in good standing are encouraged to apply.
For full details on the above positions including the application procedure, please visit the KRA website.

At age 31, Elizabeth Holmes is the world’s youngest self-made female billionaire. Her uncle’s death from cancer moved her to develop a way to detect diseases earlier. She dropped out of Stanford University her sophomore year and founded Theranos in 2003 to make cheaper, easier-to-use blood tests. With a virtually painless prick of the finger and a few drops of blood, her labs can quickly run a multitude of tests at a fraction of the price of commercial labs. Holmes raised $400 million from venture capitalists in 2014, valuing the company at $9 billion; her 50% stake is worth $4.5 billion.

Her company Theranos was valued at $9 billion. At the time of publishing, its 31-year-old founder and CEO was worth $4.5 billion, making her the world’s youngest female self-made billionaire.

Here are five life lessons we can learn from the Californian girl who made saving others her life’s mission.

1. Overnight success is a myth

In her commencement speech at Pepperdine University in May 2015, Elizabeth recalled how she started Theranos alone in a tiny basement. She gradually moved to a tiny office that also functioned as a laboratory and that could fit no more than six people. Later, they moved to a bigger office.

“Over the entry to one of the buildings was a sign that read, “Success is not the result of spontaneous combustion. You must set yourself on fire.” We named our project The Edison because we felt we would have to fail 10,000 times to get it to work the 10001. We set ourselves on fire. There is no short cut.”

2. When a door shuts, knock again. And again.

Elizabeth, who speaks fluent Mandarin, wanted to take summer classes in Mandarin at Stanford. The program does not accept high-school students but she refused to back down and repeatedly called the admissions office until the exasperated program head spontaneously conducted a Mandarin test over the phone.

She was accepted on the spot and went on to complete three years of college Mandarin while still in high school. She later told Glamour that it was like building a company where you make a decision to “figure out to do this, and if they say no to me a thousand times, I am going to keep on trying for the next thousand.”

Continue reading on Page 2 …

Yesterday, the Standard Group posted a 91 per cent drop in its 2015 half year pre-tax profit to Sh. 21 million. This was a massive drop considering that in the same period last year, Standard Group posted a half year profit of Sh. 205 million. The group’s management has since come out to direct blame on the digital migration and the staged switch off conducted by three media houses Nation Media Group, The Standard Group and Royal Media Group.

According to the Standard Group’s finances, revenue dropped 7 per cent to Sh. 2.2 billion from Sh. 2.37 billion. In the print category, advertising business went down by 4 per cent while in the television category, it declined by 27 per cent.

The results were released a few weeks after Standard Group launched a 24-hour news station KTN2. The station, which has been relying on the workforce of the old KTN, is yet to start making stable in-roads in the country’s viewership.

Earlier in March this year, the group posted an 8.4 percent rise in pretax profit for 2014 due to growth in print, TV and radio advertising. Profit before tax climbed to 326 million shillings ($3.6 million), while revenue nudged marginally lower. The company said it would pay a final dividend of 0.50 shillings per share, unchanged from the dividend paid in 2013.

Following the poor results recorded yesterday, though, the board of directors did not recommend an interim dividend. The sharp decline in profits comes at a time when Standard Group has been massively axing its workforce in a bid to cut costs. In an exercise that has been aimed at cutting down on its current workforce by 30 per cent, journalists at the group have become an endangered species, with many big name being shown the door over the past few weeks.

Consequently, it has been reported that Standard Group has been forced to take up a Sh. 500 million bank loan to pay the departing employees. Many of the journalists who have left the group include those from its superior rival Nation Media Group. Some of the big names included:

1. Julius Maina –ME, Special projects
2. Peter Okong’o (deputy ME, daily)
3. Dorcas Muga (deputy ME, weekend)
4. Juma Kwayera –writer, Saturday
5. Oscar Obonyo – writer, Sunday
6. Stephen Makabila -writer, Sunday
7. Kwamboka Oyaro –features editor
8. Joshua Kemboi- KTN sports editor
9. George Mulala – Standard photo editor
10. Peter Choge -sub-editor, Saturday Standard
11. Terry Mwenda –subeditor, The Standard
12. Grace Tunya
13. Sarah kinya -TV producer
14. Mwanaisha Chidzuga – TV host.

The Standard Group’s market share has been slimming over the recent past, with reports that its newspaper circulation has fallen to sharply, leaving the oldest newspaper in Kenya struggling behind the Daily Nation, X News and The People Daily (PD). According to figures, X News free paper which is released in the evening records a distribution of about 150,000 copies per day, while The People Daily (PD) distributes between 70,000 on weekends and 100,000 on weekdays. Standard Group’s The Standard newspaper on the other hand has been distributing an average of 70,000 copies per day.

Additionally, it has been reported that the Moi family which is associated with the Standard Group’s ownership is currently seeking to bring in a new management, with the current CEO Sam Shollei expected to be shown the door. Former editorial director at the Nation Media Group Mr. Joseph Odindo has been tipped to take over his former position in a bid to resuscitate the paper’s falling fortunes on a four year contract. Mr. Shollei succeeded Mr. Paul Melly in 2012.