Bitange Ndemo appointed University of Nairobi's vice chancellor
Prof Anangwe emphasised that the appointment aligns with the Universities Act 2012 and is intended to bring stability to an institution that has been marred by nearly two years of internal disputes and leadership uncertainty, including the ousting of former Vice Chancellor Prof Stephen Kiama.
Former ICT Permanent Secretary Prof Elijah Bitange Ndemo has been appointed as the new Vice Chancellor of the University of Nairobi.
The appointment was confirmed in a letter dated May 2, 2025, from University Council Chairperson Prof Amukowa Anangwe to Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba.
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In the letter, Prof Anangwe urged the Ministry of Education to act swiftly. "The Chairperson of the University of Nairobi Council appoints Prof. Elijah Bitange Ndemo as the Vice Chancellor of the University of Nairobi with effect from May 2, 2025, subject to ratification by the Council."
Prof Ndemo is currently serving as Kenya's Ambassador to Belgium and is in the process of concluding his diplomatic duties before returning home to assume office.
During the transition period, the University Council has appointed Prof Francis Mulaa as acting vice chancellor for six months. Prof Mulaa, who also serves as Deputy Vice Chancellor, received his appointment through a letter signed by Prof. Anangwe on May 5, 2025.
The interim arrangement comes as the university navigates a delicate leadership phase following the end of Prof Margaret Jesang Hutch's tenure as acting VC on May 5.
"The appointment was made to avoid a leadership gap at the university," the council stated.
Prof Ndemo's selection follows a competitive recruitment process overseen by the Public Service Commission (PSC), where he emerged as the top candidate with a score of 84 per cent. He was trailed by Prof Duke Orata at 73 per cent and Prof Francis Mulaa at 66.7 per cent.
Prof Anangwe emphasised that the appointment aligns with the Universities Act 2012 and is intended to bring stability to an institution that has been marred by nearly two years of internal disputes and leadership uncertainty, including the ousting of former Vice Chancellor Prof Stephen Kiama.
"This is a crucial step in restoring confidence and stability at the University of Nairobi," said Prof Anangwe. "We are confident that Prof Ndemo brings with him a wealth of experience that will steer the institution toward a new chapter of growth and reform."
Prof Ndemo's track record includes serving as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information and Communication Technology, where he was widely credited with key innovations and policy reforms.
His blend of administrative acumen and academic insight is seen as a valuable asset as the university seeks to reposition itself in an increasingly competitive academic landscape.
His appointment is also viewed as a turning point for the University of Nairobi, which has struggled with governance challenges and strained relations between the University Council and the Ministry of Education.
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