The announcement comes just moments after a similar development at the Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA), where Director General Philemon Kandie also stepped down.
In a statement issued by the KeNHA Board of Directors, the Agency confirmed the acceptance of Ndungu’s resignation.
"The Board of Directors hereby announces the acceptance of the resignation of Eng. Kungu Ndungu as Director General of the Kenya National Highways Authority, effective 11th July, 2025," reads a statement signed by KeNHA board chairperson Winfrida Ngumi.
It also announced the appointment of Luka Kimeli to serve as the acting director general, effective July 11, 2025.
The board did not give details behind Ndungu’s departure but expressed confidence in the acting DG’s ability to steer KeNHA’s mandate during the transition.
Ndungu, a civil engineer and business executive, was appointed to the position on October 8, 2021.
He replaced Peter Mundinia, who retired.
Kandie stepped down the same day after years of service at the helm of the state agency responsible for rural road infrastructure across the country.
"The Authority wishes to inform the general public of the resignation of Eng. Philemon Kandie, MBS as the Director General of Kenya Rural Roads Authority, effective 11th July, 2025," the statement reads.
Kerra did not also provide further details on the reason for Kandie’s resignation.
Following his departure, the Board, in consultation with the Cabinet Secretary for Roads and Transport, has appointed Jackson Magondu to serve as the acting director general.
Mangondu is the current Director of Planning, Design, and Environment.
“The Board of Directors would like to appreciate the outgoing Director General for his invaluable service and contribution to the Authority,” it added.
Kandie’s tenure saw the Authority expand access to remote areas through strategic rural road projects under various government development initiatives.
Kandie officially assumed office as the Director General on April 13, 2022.
This follows a prior appointment in an acting capacity on July 6, 2020.
However, there were legal challenges and court cases regarding his appointment and removal.
His five-year contract was to end April 12, 2027.
He submitted the resignation letter on July 11, 2025.
"This letter serves as a formal notification of my resignation from the position of Director General at Kenya Rural Roads Authority, giving a notice of 3 months effective 11th July 2025 with my last day of employment being 10th October 2025," the letter submitted to the board chairperson reads.
"I wish to proceed on my 45 days' annual leave during the period of my notice effective 14th July 2025."
He also committed to ensuring a smooth transition during this period as he expressed his gratitude to the board for the support and "incredible journey throughout my tenure."
"I wish everyone in the team much success in the years to come," he said.
Magondu is expected to steer the Authority forward as the search for a substantive replacement begins.
