Why Daniel Mungai Could Be Reappointed As DG KeFS
The National Assembly’s Committee on Blue Economy, Water and Irrigation has engaged stakeholders over the delayed renewal of Kenya Fisheries Service (KeFS) Director-General Daniel Mungai’s contract, raising hopes for his reappointment.
The Committee, chaired by Marakwet East MP Kangogo Bowen, convened a session to follow up on a statement by Mwingi West MP Charles Nguna regarding Mungai’s tenure. They met with KeFS Board Chair Col. (Rtd) Noor Musa and State Corporations Advisory Committee (SCAC) representative Christine Nanjala.
Col. Musa told the Committee that the KeFS Board has the legal mandate to either renew the Director-General’s contract or appoint a new one, with its decision being forwarded to the parent Ministry and the Office of the Head of Public Service for consideration.
He explained that the process is guided by the State Corporations Act, the Fisheries Management and Development Act, the Mwongozo Code of Governance, the KeFS Human Resource Policy Manual, and various government circulars.
To assess Mungai’s suitability for a second term, the KeFS Board formed an Ad Hoc Committee that reviewed his performance, disciplinary record, and achievements.
“The evaluation showed that Mr. Mungai’s performance in the annual performance contracts and appraisals conducted by SCAC averaged above 88% over the last three years, which is well above the 70% threshold required for renewal,” Col. Musa told the MPs.
He added that Mungai had a clean disciplinary record and had made significant contributions to the sector, leading the Committee to unanimously recommend his reappointment for another four-year term.
Last week, the Committee also met with Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy and Maritime Affairs, Hon. Hassan Joho, who affirmed that the Ministry retains final authority on appointments and oversees the Board’s decisions.
The Committee is now expected to consult further with the Office of the Attorney General and the Prime Cabinet Secretary for legal clarity and final input before a decision is made.