Kenya’s engineering sector is rapidly evolving. As the nation pushes toward Vision 2030 and global sustainability goals, research and development (R&D) has become the backbone of innovation. At Jumba Engineering Services Ltd. (Jumba Engineering.), with over 40 years of experience in electrical contracting and infrastructure development, we recognize that the future belongs to those who invest in knowledge, innovation, and mentorship.

Our dedicated R&D Department has been established to nurture startups, test emerging technologies, and incubate ideas that solve Kenya’s most pressing challenges in energy, ICT, construction, and beyond.

Why R&D Matters in Engineering

  1. Technology is Changing Rapidly – Smart grids, renewable storage, and AI-driven maintenance are no longer futuristic ideas; they are today’s needs.

  2. Local Challenges Need Local Solutions – Kenya’s energy needs differ from Europe’s or Asia’s; our R&D focuses on context-specific innovations.

  3. Sustainability is Non-Negotiable – Green energy, sustainable construction, and circular economies demand research-driven approaches.

  4. Economic Growth – R&D fuels job creation, startups, and skills transfer.

The Jumba Engineering R&D Model

Our R&D department operates with independence but under the strategic oversight of our leadership:

  • Eng. Albert Amaje Luvanda (Executive Director): providing vision, mentorship, and technical expertise.

  • Eng. Vincent Ben Jumba (Managing Director): offering operational guidance and coaching.

  • Dr. Maureen Khatiera (Head of R&D): managing grant writing, project oversight, and incubation processes.

Projects are run as mini-enterprises with their own:

  • Management teams.

  • Budgets and funding structures.

  • Timelines and milestones.

  • Freedom to innovate with accountability to Jumba Engineering standards.

Areas of Focus

  1. Renewable Energy & Storage

    • Prototyping microgrid solutions.

    • Testing hybrid solar + battery systems for rural communities.

  2. ICT & Telecommunications

    • Structured cabling startups.

    • Smart building integration for commercial facilities.

  3. Public Health & Social Innovation

    • Low-cost medical devices.

    • Power backup systems for clinics and laboratories.

  4. Construction & Green Materials

    • Exploring eco-friendly cement and modular housing solutions.

  5. Incubation & Startups

    • Providing office space, training, and advisory services.

    • Linking startups to financing through Equity, KCB, Co-op Bank, DBK, and angel investors.

Our Support Systems for Innovators

At Jumba Engineering, startups and innovators gain access to:

  • Business basics: company registration, financial planning, compliance.

  • Training & mentorship: provided by our seasoned engineers.

  • Market research & validation: leveraging Jumba Engineering’s 40+ years of field data.

  • Networking: links to suppliers, contractors, and clients.

  • Capital: access to loans, grants, and investor networks.

  • Regulatory compliance: guidance on EPRA, NCA, KEBS, and EBK requirements.

This holistic support ensures that innovators focus on solving problems, not struggling with barriers.

Case Study: Incubation of ICT Cabling Startup

In 2021, Jumba Engineering. incubated a small ICT team developing structured cabling solutions for Nairobi’s SMEs.

What we provided:

  • Training in cable certification and testing.

  • Access to client networks.

  • Support in securing their first loan from Equity Bank.

Results:

  • The startup grew to handle installations in schools and offices.

  • Today, they employ 25+ technicians and continue collaborating with Jumba Engineering.

Our Philosophy: Genchi Gembutsu (Go and See)

At Jumba Engineering, we follow the Japanese principle of Genchi Gembutsu, meaning go to the source. Our R&D teams go to the field, work alongside technicians, and test solutions in real environments. This hands-on approach ensures that innovations are practical, reliable, and scalable.

Why Clients Benefit from Jumba Engineering R&D

Even if you’re not a startup, partnering with an R&D-driven firm means:

  • Access to cutting-edge solutions tested in real-world conditions.

  • Faster project delivery with innovative tools and methods.

  • Sustainability assurance through green innovations.

  • Confidence that your contractor is forward-looking, not outdated.

Conclusion

R&D is not an expense; it is the fuel for Kenya’s engineering future. At Jumba Engineering, our dedicated R&D department empowers innovators, incubates startups, and develops solutions that transform industries and communities.

📧 Interested in joining or partnering with our R&D team? Send your application or proposal to jes@jesltd.co.ke.