The question of fair representation in Kenya’s state corporations took centre stage on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, as the Senate Standing Committee on National Cohesion, Equal Opportunity, and Regional Integration examined employment practices at the Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC) and the Geothermal Development Company (GDC).

Senators, chaired by Senator Said Mohamed Chute of Marsabit, sought to determine whether both organisations are providing equal opportunities to all communities in their hiring and promotion processes.

KPC Managing Director Joe Sang told the committee that the company has taken deliberate steps to promote inclusivity.

The committee, however, raised concerns that over 60 per cent of KPC employees come from just four communities: Kalenjin, Luo, Luhya, and Kamba.

“The report revealed that the majority of employees at KPC come from the Kalenjin, Luo, Luhya, and Kamba communities.”

Sang attributed this trend to historical employment patterns but assured the committee that KPC is committed to broadening its recruitment to include other communities. He also highlighted the company’s efforts to create opportunities for women and persons with disabilities.

Sang acknowledged that imbalances remain at senior levels but emphasised that KPC is steadily addressing these gaps through fair and transparent recruitment policies.

At GDC, Managing Director Paul Ngugi defended the company’s record on inclusivity. He submitted an appendix showing regional representation across the organisation and noted that staff are recruited from various parts of the country.

Ngugi stated that these measures ensure compliance with constitutional requirements while allowing communities in geothermal-rich regions, such as Baringo and Nakuru, to benefit from job opportunities and contracts.

Senators pushed for more than policy assurances. Senator Daniel Maanzo of Makueni voiced concern that senior promotions remain heavily concentrated in certain regions, urging the release of detailed disaggregated data. Senator Lomenen Joseph of Turkana stressed that marginalised counties must not be left out, particularly when projects are located in their areas.

Senator Kamau Githuku of Nyandarua called for a full staff audit by county, gender, and age to verify the inclusivity claims.

The committee affirmed that oversight will continue until state agencies genuinely reflect Kenya’s diversity.