In a dramatic turn of events at the University of Nairobi, the Council has officially terminated the tenure of Vice Chancellor Prof. Stephen Kiama, effective September 27, 2024.
The announcement was made via a memo dated October 14, 2024, by Council Chair, Prof. Amukowa Anangwe, who stated that the reasons for Kiama’s dismissal had been communicated directly to him, although specifics were not disclosed.
Prof. Kiama, who had served as vice chancellor since January 5, 2020, succeeded Prof. Isaac Mbeche after the latter held the position in an acting capacity.
Before his elevation, Kiama held various roles at the university, including Deputy Vice Chancellor for Human Resource and Administration.
Having begun his career at the University of Nairobi as an assistant lecturer in Veterinary Anatomy in 1990, Kiama rose through the ranks to become a professor in 2016.
His tenure, however, has been marred by controversies, including two previous suspensions, the latest occurring on August 2, 2024. These suspensions were rooted in accusations of insubordination, with the council citing his refusal to take a mandated 60-day leave.
The situation escalated further when the council, amidst mounting tensions, decided to terminate Kiama’s services. Prof. Anangwe urged the university community to remain focused on their mission and assured that the Council would uphold its mandate, always operating within legal bounds.
The Council has appointed Margaret Jesang Hutchinson as the acting Vice Chancellor during this transitional period, signaling a new chapter for the University of Nairobi.
