The institution’s Council has announced the appointment of Prof. Bitange Ndemo as the new Vice Chancellor. Prof. Ndemo, currently serving as Kenya’s Ambassador to Belgium, will take over from Acting Vice Chancellor Prof. Margaret Jesang Hutchinson, who had been overseeing the university’s operations during the transition.
The announcement, made on May 5, 2025, confirmed that Prof. Ndemo would assume the role of Vice Chancellor after concluding his ambassadorial duties in Brussels. To ensure the seamless continuation of leadership, the UoN Council has appointed Prof. Francis Jackim Mulaa as Acting Vice Chancellor for a six-month term, effective immediately. This decision was made to prevent any administrative vacuum during the period leading up to Prof. Ndemo’s return to Kenya. Prof. Mulaa, who was previously the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, will hold the acting position until Prof. Ndemo officially assumes office.
Prof. Ndemo, a renowned academic and public servant, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. Before his ambassadorial position, he served as the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information and Communications, where he was instrumental in shaping Kenya’s digital transformation. His leadership in both public service and academia has earned him widespread recognition, and he is expected to bring innovative ideas and strong governance to UoN.
In a letter to the university community, UoN Council Chairperson Prof. Amukowa Anangwe emphasized that the acting appointment of Prof. Mulaa would ensure stability in university administration until Prof. Ndemo’s official return. The letter also highlighted that Prof. Mulaa’s tenure would end once Prof. Ndemo officially takes office as Vice Chancellor.
Prof. Ndemo’s appointment marks a new chapter for the University of Nairobi, an institution that continues to play a vital role in Kenya’s educational and research landscape. His leadership is expected to guide the university into an era of continued academic excellence and innovation.
