University of Nairobi VC Prof Kiama
In a memo dated October 14, Council Chairman Amukowa Anangwe addressed the university community regarding Prof. Stephen Gitahi Kiama’s termination.
Kiama ceased to hold his position on September 27, 2024.
Anangwe referenced an earlier communiqué from August 2, which announced Kiama’s official termination as an employee.
“The Council wishes to inform the university community that Prof. Kiama’s services were terminated effective September 27, 2024,” Anangwe stated. He emphasized that the reasons for Kiama’s termination had been clearly communicated.
He reassured the community, saying, “The Council is committed to fulfilling its mandate and upholding the law.”
Memo terminating Prof Kiama’s rule
Anangwe expressed confidence in the Council’s ability to handle the situation. “Whenever called upon, the Council will rise to the occasion and discharge its mandate faithfully,” he affirmed.
In August, the Council had suspended Kiama for three months. They noted he failed to meet the requirements for a second term. “Kiama’s request for a second term was not validly communicated. He does not qualify for a review,” Anangwe explained.
Following the decision, the Council appointed Prof. Margaret Hutchinson as the acting vice-chancellor.
Kiama, who began his tenure on January 5, 2020, succeeded Peter Mbithi, who was placed on compulsory leave. Kiama’s term was set to end in 2025, as outlined in a letter from then Council Chair, Julia Ojiambo. However, his leadership faced challenges.
In September 2023, Kiama unexpectedly cut short his sabbatical and returned to work early.
The Council had approved his six-month sabbatical, starting August 1, 2023. During his absence, Julius Ogeng’o was appointed as acting vice-chancellor.
Despite only taking 23 working days of leave, Kiama returned on September 1, 2023. Upon returning, he dismissed Ogeng’o, declaring himself “well-rested and rejuvenated” on social media.
