Research & Development at JES Ltd.
At Jumba Engineering Services Limited (JES Ltd.), we believe that engineering is not just about solving today’s problems — it is about shaping the future. Our Research & Development (R&D) Department was created to incubate bold ideas, nurture technological startups, and advance engineering solutions that improve lives and accelerate sustainable development across Kenya and beyond.
Independent but Supported
The R&D Department operates with independence and autonomy, allowing projects to charter their own path, develop unique solutions, and move at the speed of innovation. While independent, the department benefits from the oversight and mentorship of:
- Eng. Albert Amaje Luvanda (Executive Director), providing strategic vision and technical wisdom from over 40 years of engineering leadership.
- Eng. Vincent Ben Jumba (Managing Director), offering business direction, mentorship, and integration with wider company strategy.
- Dr. Maureen Khatiera (Head of R&D), leading daily operations, grant writing and management, and supervision of ongoing projects.
Each project team has its own management structure, budget, and milestones, but receives JES Ltd.’s support in training, advisory, and operational resources.
What We Offer Innovators
The JES Ltd. R&D ecosystem provides far more than just office space. Our innovators and startups benefit from:
- Training & Advisory Services — professional coaching, business fundamentals, and regulatory compliance guidance.
- Access to Capital — links to local and international financiers, banks, angel investors, and venture capital networks.
- Operational Support — HR, legal, financial management, and administrative support so teams can focus on building.
- Networking & Partnerships — introductions to strategic partners, government agencies, and private-sector collaborators.
- Market Research & Marketing Assistance — helping projects validate ideas and reach their target markets.
- Intellectual Property Management — guidance on protecting and commercializing innovations.
Incubation & Acceleration Programs
We actively support startups and innovators through:
- Medical & Public/Social Incubation — advancing solutions in health, education, and social enterprise.
- Seed Acceleration Programs — fast-tracking promising startups with mentorship and seed funding.
- Engineering & Technology Startup Studios — supporting spin-offs in solar, construction tech, ICT, and automation.
Our approach mirrors the Build–Measure–Learn feedback loop pioneered in Lean Startup methodology — enabling rapid learning, adaptation, and scaling of ideas.
Our Philosophy: Genchi Genbutsu
At JES Ltd., we live by the Japanese principle of Genchi Genbutsu — “go and see for yourself.” We believe true innovation comes from a hands-on approach, where engineers and researchers immerse themselves in the environment of the problem. Whether it is on-site at a solar farm, inside a university lab, or in a community workshop, we leave nothing to chance and learn directly from the source.
Economic and Social Impact
Our R&D Department is more than just an incubator — it is part of Kenya’s regional and national economic development agenda. By creating solutions that are locally relevant and globally competitive, we contribute to job creation, industrial development, and sustainable progress.
Join Our R&D Movement
Do you have an idea that could transform industries or communities? We are always looking for passionate innovators, researchers, and entrepreneurs to join our ecosystem.
📧 Send your application to: research@jesltd.co.ke