The University of Nairobi (UoN) has officially appointed seasoned diplomat and academic Prof Elijah Bitange Ndemo as its next Vice Chancellor, ending a prolonged period of leadership uncertainty at the institution.

Ndemo, who currently serves as Kenya’s Ambassador to Belgium, is expected to assume office later this year after concluding his diplomatic duties. Until then, the University Council has named Francis Jackim Mulaa as acting vice chancellor for a six-month period effective May 5, 2025.

“Prof Elijah Bitange Ndemo is in the process of handing over his current position as Kenya’s Ambassador to Belgium in Brussels before he relocates to Kenya,” the Council confirmed in an appointment letter.

Leadership

Mulaa, who also serves as the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, was appointed through a letter signed by Council Chairperson Prof Amukowa Anangwe. The appointment followed the end of Prof Margaret Jesang Hutchinson’s term as acting vice chancellor on May 5, 2025.

“Your appointment is intended to preempt an administrative vacuum in the office of the vice chancellor,” the letter to Prof Mulaa stated.

The decision was made in accordance with Clause 8 of the First Schedule to the Universities Act, 2012, and Article 18(5) of the University of Nairobi Charter, 2013.

Ndemo emerged as the top candidate during interviews conducted by the Public Service Commission (PSC), scoring 84 percent. He was followed by Duke Orata at 73 percent and Francis Mulaa at 66.7 percent.

In a letter dated May 2, 2025, Anangwe recommended Ndemo’s appointment to Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba and urged quick action to formalize the process.

“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 2nd May 2025, subject to ratification by the council,” the letter stated.

Stability

The appointment is seen as a step toward restoring stability after nearly two years of internal wrangles. In April 2024, the council sent former Vice Chancellor Stephen Kiama on compulsory leave following a series of clashes with Anangwe.

Tensions at the university worsened when Education CS Ogamba attempted to dismiss Anangwe over alleged interference in university affairs. The decision was blocked by the courts pending a full hearing.

Ndemo brings a rich background in public service and academia, including serving as the ICT Permanent Secretary under President Mwai Kibaki and lecturing in entrepreneurship at UoN. He is expected to bring reform and stability to the institution once he assumes full duties.