Kibabii University will confer an honorary doctorate on Bungoma County Governor Kenneth Lusaka in recognition of his contribution to public service, devolved governance and education.

In a notice released on Tuesday, the university said it will award Lusaka the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Humane Letters (DHumLitt) (Honoris Causa) during its 11th Graduation Ceremony scheduled for Friday, November 20, 2026.

The announcement was made by Acting Vice-Chancellor Prof. Joshua Ondura Ogendo, who said the decision was made in line with the University Charter and Statutes.

“Pursuant to Section 9(1)(c) of the Kibabii University Charter, 2015, and Statute XLIV, Section 1(ix) of the Kibabii University Statutes, 2021, and upon recommendation of the University Senate with the consent of the University Council, Kibabii University hereby presents Kenneth Makelo Lusaka for the conferment of the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Humane Letters (DHumLitt), (Honoris Causa), during the 11th Graduation Ceremony to be held on Friday, 20th November 2026,” Prof. Ogendo said.

According to the university, the award recognises Lusaka’s distinguished contribution to public service, devolved governance, education, institutional development and environmental conservation.

Lusaka, who was the first governor for Bingoma (2013-2017), is currently serving his second term.

He previously served as District Officer (DO), District Commissioner (DC), and Permanent Secretary for Livestock Development and as Speaker of the Senate of the Republic of Kenya from 2017 to 2022.

The university said that in those roles, Lusaka contributed to public administration, county institution-building, early childhood education and bringing parliamentary proceedings closer to citizens.

His contribution to higher education includes supporting Kibabii University’s journey towards the award of its charter in 2015 and the development of its Bachelor of Cooperative and Entrepreneurship Management programme.

Lusaka, who holds the state commendations of EGH, CBS and EBS, has also championed environmental conservation and ecotourism, including initiatives associated with the Mount Elgon ecosystem.

Kibabii University has invited the public to join in celebrating the governor during the graduation ceremony for his distinguished public service and contribution to education, governance and the advancement of society.

By Chris Mahandara