Municipal board

Functions of the Municipality Board

The Board of the Municipality shall perform the following functions:

Oversee the affairs of the Municipality;

Develop or adopt policies, plans, strategies and programmes and set targets for service delivery;

Maintaining a comprehensive database and information system of the administration;

Administering and regulating its internal affairs;

Implementing applicable National and County legislation;

Monitoring and, where appropriate, regulating Municipal services where those services are provided by service providers other than the Board of the Municipality;

Preparing and submitting its annual budget estimates to the relevant County Treasury for consideration and submission to the County Assembly for approval as part of the annual County Appropriation Bill;

Monitoring the impact and effectiveness of any services, policies, programs or plans;

Establishing, implementing and monitoring performance management systems;

Promoting a safe and healthy environment;

Facilitating and regulating public transport

Performing such other functions as delegated by the Governor.

Board Members

Joshua Kirimi Mungania

Board Chairman

BIOGRAPHY

Joshua Kirimi Mungania is an accomplished public administrator and community leader with extensive experience in governance, leadership, and development. He holds a Master’s degree in Project Management and a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Nairobi, complemented by advanced training in public administration, senior management, and paramilitary leadership at the Administration Police Training College, Embakasi.

With a strong record in both the public and private sectors, Joshua has held key leadership roles that bridge governance and development. He serves on the Occupational Council at Tharaka University, contributes to healthcare improvement as a Board Member at Meru Level Five Hospital, and leads the business community as Chairman of the Meru Chamber of Commerce, promoting entrepreneurship and economic growth.

A successful entrepreneur, Joshua’s ventures have created employment and strengthened the local economy. His career reflects a deep commitment to service, integrity, and community empowerment, continually working to build institutions and opportunities that enhance the well-being and prosperity of society.

Hon. Joy karwitha kaaria
CECM lands, physical planning, urban Development and public works

BIOGRAPHY

Hon. Joy Karwitha Kaaria is the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Lands, Physical Planning, Urban Development and Public Works in Meru County. By virtue of this position, and as provided for under the Urban Areas and Cities Act (Revised 2019), she serves as an ex officio member of the Meru Municipal Board, where she plays a pivotal role in guiding urban governance, planning and service delivery within the municipality.

A native of Mboroga Village in Kibirichia Ward, Buuri Constituency, Hon. Karwitha represents a new generation of county leadership that combines academic excellence, professional experience and innovative vision. She holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Nairobi (2013) and a Master’s degree in Management Information Systems from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT).

Her professional journey began as a graduate trainee at Technology Associates, followed by roles at Computech Limited and Riviera Technologies. She later founded and served as Chief Executive Officer of Cyber East Africa Limited (CyberAce Africa), a regional cybersecurity firm. These experiences equipped her with expertise in leadership, digital systems and organizational management.

In 2024, she was appointed to the Meru County Executive, having been duly vetted and cleared by all statutory agencies responsible for Chapter Six compliance, including the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB), and the Credit Reference Bureau (CRB). Her swearing-in ceremony, which attracted national attention, marked her entry into county executive leadership.

As CECM and Board Member, Hon. Karwitha has prioritized the modernization and digitization of land registries and urban management systems, with a focus on transparency, efficiency, and sustainability. She is committed to ensuring that Meru Municipality grows in line with national urbanization policies while responding to the aspirations of its residents.

Widely regarded as a youthful and dynamic leader, Hon. Joy Karwitha Kaaria continues to contribute actively to the transformation of Meru’s urban governance through her dual role in the County Executive and the Meru Municipal Board.

Sarafin mutwiri murungi
Ag chief officer lands physical planning, urban Development and public works.

BIOGRAPHY

Sarafin mutwiri murungi is the Ag Chief officer Lands, physical planning, urban Development and public works in meru county. By virtue of this position and as provided for under the urban areas and cities act (revised 2019),he serves as an ex official of the meru municipal board.
A native of Rwarene village in igoji East ward, imenti south constituency. Sarafin mutwiri represents a new generation of county leadership that combines academic excellence, professional experience and innovative vision. He holds a bachelor of computer science from kenyatta university and ongoing MSc computer systems (jkuat) and ongoing MBA strategies management (mku)
His professional journey began as an intern at Kenya pipeline, He joined county government of meru and has served in different positions including principal ICT officer, Director ICT and currently the Ag chief officer lands, physical planning, urban Development and public works in Meru County.

Dr. Jotham M. Kirimi

Municipal manager

BIOGRAPHY

Dr. Jotham M. Kirimi is a superb and acute public administrator who strongly believes in efficient service delivery and transformative governance. With over 20 years of progressive leadership experience, he has served in key senior capacities within the County Government of Meru, including Director of Monitoring and Evaluation, Director of Administration and Public Service and later as Chief of Staff, where he spearheaded institutional reforms, policy development and strategic management.
He is currently the County Coordinator of the Kenya Devolution Support Program II (KDSP II) and the Municipal Manager of Meru Municipality, overseeing urban governance, citizen-centered service delivery and the implementation of strategic development initiatives.
Dr. Kirimi holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Religious Studies from Kenya Methodist University, alongside advanced qualifications in education management and leadership. His career reflects an enduring commitment to accountability, innovation and participatory governance that improves livelihoods and strengthens public institutions.

Latif Kinyua Mbaya

Board Member

BIOGRAPHY


Latif Kinyua Mbaya is a dedicated community leader and development practitioner with a background in grassroots mobilization, health, and social advocacy. Holding a Diploma in Medical Laboratory Services, he began his journey through health and community-based initiatives.

Representing Majengo informal settlement, Latif has become a strong advocate for the inclusion and dignity of marginalized groups, ensuring their voices shape urban development decisions. Over the years, he has volunteered across Meru County—particularly in Mjini, Shauri Yako, Gakoromone, and Majengo—coordinating community projects with local stakeholders and partners.

Latif has played a key role in identifying community needs, organizing empowerment workshops, and supporting sustainable development initiatives. His experience in monitoring, evaluation, and proposal writing has helped link grassroots efforts with broader development agendas.

Working closely with government agencies, NGOs, and donors, he promotes inclusive, accountable, and community-driven growth. Guided by principles of equity and justice, Latif envisions vibrant, healthy, and integrated informal settlements in Meru—where every resident can access better housing, healthcare, education, and economic opportunities.

Jacklyn Kendi Kimathi

Board Member

BIOGRAPHY

Jackline Kendi Kimathi is an accomplished legal professional, public secretary and accountant with a rich and diverse background spanning law, governance and business advisory. She is widely recognized for her multifaceted expertise, strategic thinking and commitment to excellence in both the legal and corporate arenas.

Currently serving as the Managing Partner at Kimathi & Muchiri Advocates, Jackline brings to the firm over a decade of progressive legal experience. Her practice cuts across several areas, including corporate compliance, governance advisory, commercial litigation, constitutional law and legal research. In this capacity, she provides leadership not only in client representation but also in shaping the firm’s strategic direction and upholding its reputation for integrity and professionalism.

Jackline holds a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B Hons) degree from the University of Nairobi, a foundation that has enabled her to excel in both litigation and advisory roles. Complementing her legal training, she is also a finalist in the Certified Public Accountants (CPA) program and the Certified Public Secretaries (CPS) program. This rare combination of law, finance and governance skills uniquely positions her as a holistic advisor who can navigate complex intersections between legal frameworks, financial regulations and institutional governance.

Her professional affiliations reflect her active engagement in advancing the standards of her fields. She is a member in good standing of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), where she contributes to professional development and ethical practice among advocates. She is also a proud member of the Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA Kenya), through which she actively supports initiatives that advance women’s rights, access to justice and gender equality. In addition, she is an associate member of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK), underscoring her strong grounding in financial accountability and corporate transparency.

Beyond her professional work, Jackline has earned recognition for her commitment to mentorship and capacity building. She is passionate about nurturing the next generation of lawyers, accountants and governance professionals, often engaging in forums and training programs that promote professional excellence and ethical leadership. Her dedication to service extends into community initiatives, where she leverages her skills to strengthen institutions and empower vulnerable groups through legal awareness and advisory support.

A dynamic leader with a vision for transformative governance and responsible business, Jackline continues to play a pivotal role in shaping legal and corporate practice in Kenya. Her unique blend of expertise, integrity and leadership makes her not only an accomplished professional but also a respected voice in advancing good governance, social justice and sustainable development.

Penina Kambura

Board Member

BIOGRAPHY

Penina Kambura is a qualified educationist, counseling professional and humanitarian leader with extensive experience in teaching, mentorship and advocacy. She holds a Bachelor of Education degree from Moi University and a Higher Diploma in Counseling Psychology.

She currently serves as a tutor at Meru Teachers College, where she is committed to preparing competent and value-driven educators. Beyond her teaching role, she is the Deputy Manager of the Kenya Red Cross Society, Meru Branch, where she provides leadership in humanitarian response, community resilience programs and volunteer coordination.

Penina also contributes her expertise through membership in several Boards of Management, actively strengthening institutional governance and advancing inclusive education. As a visually impaired professional, she is actively involved in organizations and associations representing persons living with disabilities, where she plays both active and leadership roles. Her participation reflects her strong commitment to promoting equity, empowerment and opportunities for people with disabilities.

A devoted Christian, Penina upholds values of integrity, service and compassion, which continue to guide her professional and community engagements.

Joseph Kaburu Mbogori

Board Member

BIOGRAPHY

Joseph Kaburu Mbogori is an experienced Human Resource practitioner with a strong background in organizational management, governance, and leadership. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration (Human Resource Management) and has undertaken professional training in Senior Management, ISO 9001:2015 Internal Auditing, Supervisory Management, Environmental Compliance, and Performance Management.

Joseph began his career with the Kenya Forest Department in 1979, rising from a Clerical Officer to Human Resource Management Administrator through dedication and excellence. In 2006, he joined the Kenya School of Government (KSG) as a Human Resource Management Officer, where he strengthened administrative systems, enhanced staff welfare, and supported civil service training until his retirement in 2020.

In retirement, Joseph continues to mentor young professionals and provide advisory support on HR and governance matters. Guided by humility, service, and integrity, he remains committed to building stronger institutions and communities through leadership and mentorship.

Planner David Ntarangwi Rukunga

Board Member

BIOGRAPHY

Planner David Ntarangwi Rukunga is an accomplished urban, regional, and environmental planner with over 20 years of experience in public service and private consultancy. He holds a Master’s degree in Urban and Regional Planning from the University of Nairobi and is a Distinguished Fellow of the Kenya Institute of Planners (KIP). He is also a Registered Physical Planner with the Planner’s Registration Board of Kenya and a Licensed Lead Expert with NEMA.

David began his career at the Ministry of Lands and Settlement, serving as a District Physical Planner, where he played a key role in developing and implementing physical development and land-use plans. He later founded NTARA & ASSOCIATES, a Meru-based consultancy firm offering professional services in urban planning, land-use management, and environmental assessment.

His work includes leading urban development plans, strategic land-use projects, and environmental audits, promoting sustainable, inclusive, and well-planned human settlements. Beyond consultancy, David is a mentor and thought leader, advocating for participatory planning and ethical professional practice that balances growth with environmental protection.

Charles Kibiti Ikunyua

Board Member

BIOGRAPHY

Charles Kibiti Ikunyua is a retired civil servant and accomplished Animal Scientist with over 33 years of distinguished service in Kenya’s public sector. Throughout his career, he provided leadership in livestock development and agricultural extension services, contributing significantly to the growth of the livestock sector and rural livelihoods.

Mr. Ikunyua served as the Provincial Director of Livestock Development in Eastern Province, based in Embu, where he oversaw livestock production activities in partnership with farmers across multiple districts (now counties). He was responsible for guiding and supervising staff engaged in extension services, providing both technical direction and administrative leadership. His tenure was marked by efforts to improve livestock productivity, promote modern production practices and strengthen farmer-support systems across the region.

His professional training and academic background reflect his commitment to excellence in the agricultural sciences. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science from California Polytechnic State University, USA, a Diploma in Animal Science from Egerton University, Kenya and a Diploma in Poultry Science from Barneveld College, The Netherlands. He also holds a Certificate in Ruminant Nutrition in the Tropics from Hoinehem University, Germany. In addition, he has attended numerous scientific and management courses, seminars and professional meetings both locally and internationally, enriching his technical expertise and managerial capacity.

Beyond his civil service career, Mr. Ikunyua has contributed to the development of technical and vocational education. From 2011 to 2014, he served as a Board Member of Nkabune Technical Institute, providing governance oversight and supporting institutional advancement in agricultural and technical training.

Currently, he is actively engaged in coffee farming and other crop enterprises, while continuing to share his wealth of experience in agriculture, both in livestock and crop production. His lifelong dedication to agricultural development continues to inspire farmers, students and professionals in the sector.

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