Kenyatta University marked a historic milestone with the official launch of the Kenyatta University Alumni Association (KUAA), held under the inspiring theme “Reunite, Renew and Rekindle.” The event brought together distinguished alumni, university leadership, staff, students, sponsors, and friends of KU to celebrate the enduring bond of the KU family and to chart the future of alumni engagement.
The celebrations opened in grand style with a performance by the University’s Mighty Choir, which has earned national recognition by winning the Kenya Music Festival for 16 consecutive years. Their moving rendition set the tone for an afternoon of nostalgia, commitment, and shared pride in KU’s legacy.
In his remarks, Prof. John Muriuki, Chairperson of the KUAA Board, introduced the members of the board, emphasising its diverse composition that cuts across various University units. He outlined the direction KUAA is taking and highlighted the enthusiasm already witnessed as alumni sub-groups met independently to support the Association’s realisation.
Dr. Patrick Ikiara, Chairperson of the KUAA Interim Board, also introduced the seven-member interim team, affirming their dedication to building the foundation of an active and sustainable alumni association.
Prof. Paul Okemo, Ag. Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration and Finance), captured the spirit of the day by noting the lifelong bonds created at KU: “Many of us came here and left with life partners. That is just one of the blessings KU has given us. Every time we talk about KUAA, we affirm our commitment to each other as family.”
Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Paul Wainaina, reaffirmed the University’s commitment to KUAA, describing himself as “an alumnus by association,” having studied at UoN when Kenyatta College transitioned into a university. He traced the association’s journey since 2018 and lauded the late Madam Lizzie Wanyoike, former KUAA Chairperson, whose vision and dedication laid the foundation for this cause.
Prof. Wainaina reflected on the alumni’s role in offering support to needy students, particularly after the tragic Maungu accident of March 2024, where alumni rallied to assist affected students and families. “As much as we shall run KUAA from KU through the Secretariat, we still invite you to join hands with us. We are here to realise Lizzie’s dream, and as I approach retirement, I too want this to be part of my legacy,” he stated powerfully.
The Chief Guest, Teachers Service Commission Chairperson Mr. Jamleck Muturi, a proud KU alumnus, echoed this sentiment, underscoring that KU is a permanent home for all alumni: “No matter how much time passes, you never really leave KU. Each of us is a living billboard of this University, and the legacy we create through KUAA will outlive us.” He challenged alumni to imagine the impact if all 500,000 plus KU alumni contributed even a dollar each towards the endowment fund, pledging to champion this cause at the national level.
The event was also graced by NIBS College representative Mr. Allan Njenga, who confirmed the institution’s sponsorship of the launch in memory of the late Madam Lizzie Wanyoike, noting that her lifelong wish was to see KUAA firmly established. “She studied here when KU was still a College, and she gave her all to this cause. Today we honour her vision,” he said.
In a symbolic gesture, Prof. Wainaina handed over the KUAA Certificate and Emblem to Dr. Ikiara, officially commissioning the Interim Board to steer the Association forward. A portrait of the late Lizzie Wanyoike was also presented in recognition of her extraordinary contribution.
The occasion concluded with the exchange of gifts, ceremonial photographs, and vibrant cultural performances by the Rambolo Dancers, culminating in the cutting of the celebratory cake.
As KUAA takes root, the resounding message from the event was clear: the KU alumni community is a powerful force for advocacy, philanthropy, and ambassadorship. Through unity and commitment, KUAA is poised to reunite, renew, and rekindle the lifelong bond of the KU family and to build a legacy for generations to come.
