Wishing Prof Bitange Ndemo greater responsibilities and exciting challenges in this impressive new chapter!
In a poetic twist of destiny, Professor Elijah Bitange Ndemo, a celebrated digital visionary and Kenya’s current Ambassador to Belgium, has been named the new Vice Chancellor of the University of Nairobi, the country’s most revered institution of higher learning. His journey now circles back to where minds are nurtured and futures are shaped.
The confirmation of Prof Ndemo’s appointment came through an official letter dated May 2, 2025, authored by the Chairperson of the University Council, Prof Amukowa Anangwe, and addressed to Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba. The letter reads, “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 Anangwe also urged the ministry to expedite the necessary transition steps.
Until Prof Ndemo completes his diplomatic duties in Brussels, the reins will be temporarily held by Prof Francis Mulaa, the institution’s current Deputy Vice Chancellor, who steps into the role of acting VC for a six-month period.
A respected academic, policy trailblazer, and tireless architect of Kenya’s digital journey, Prof Ndemo’s name echoes through the corridors of innovation. During his time as ICT Permanent Secretary from 2005 to 2013, he spearheaded projects that forever transformed Kenya’s tech landscape. He played a pivotal role in the creation of The East African Marine System (TEAMS), the submarine fibre-optic cable that dramatically cut internet and mobile data costs, opening the digital floodgates for millions.
Working alongside Minister Mutahi Kagwe, he helped birth the region’s first large-scale fibre optic project, laying a sturdy foundation for a connected future. His tenure also saw the rise of business process outsourcing, lower mobile termination rates, and the launch of the Kenya Open Data Initiative, which elevated transparency and public participation.
Ndemo’s vision extended into nurturing spaces like iHub and mLab, which became fertile ground for Kenya’s tech talents. He was also a dream-weaver behind the early stages of Konza Technopolis, the nation’s bold smart city vision.
His return to the academic fold signals a renewed emphasis on digital evolution, research depth, and structural transformation. As he prepares to wear the robe of academic leadership once more, Kenya watches with hope, ready for the next chapter.
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