Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) and Lanzhou University are set to expand their long-standing academic partnership beyond agricultural research into broader fields, including engineering, environmental science and technology.
The renewed commitment emerged during a courtesy call by a Lanzhou University delegation led by Prof. Xiong Youcai, Principal Investigator for the JKUAT–LZU joint projects, to the JKUAT Vice Chancellor, Prof. Victoria Wambui Ngumi on April 16, 2026. Prof. Xiong also serves as Director of the China–Kenya Dryland Agricultural Ecology Joint Research Centre.
Speaking during the engagement forum, Prof. Ngumi said, the partnership, established in 2012, continues to position both institutions at the forefront of addressing shared development challenges. She highlighted key milestones, including joint research, technology transfer, and academic exchange programmes that have enhanced scientific output and institutional visibility.
She noted that more than 30 peer-reviewed publications have been produced under the collaboration, strengthening the University’s research profile locally and globally.
Prof. Ngumi added that JKUAT welcomes partnerships with leading international universities such as Lanzhou University to strengthen its global profile, adding that the collaboration opens up opportunities for staff and student exchange programmes, joint research, and co-supervision of postgraduate students.
On his part, Prof. Xiong Youcai said, the partnership has delivered significant outcomes in dryland agricultural research, capacity building, and knowledge exchange. He noted that the collaboration has played a key role in advancing scientific research and practical solutions in agriculture.
He expressed Lanzhou University’s desire to expand the collaboration into other thematic areas, reaffirming his institution’s pledge to sustain and strengthen the partnership.
Prof. Xiong lauded JKUAT for producing high-calibre researchers, noting that many have worked with him and gone on to publish in leading international journals.
He added that collaboration between Kenya and China, particularly in agriculture, has yielded tangible benefits for local farmers, contributing to ongoing efforts toward agricultural sustainability.
The engagement forum also observed a moment of solemn reflection following the sudden passing of Mr. Li Xianpeng, a JKUAT–Lanzhou University Master’s student on an exchange programme, who succumbed to cardiac arrest. Led by Prof. Victoria Wambui Ngumi, JKUAT management conveyed its condolences to the Lanzhou University community and the bereaved family, expressing solidarity with them during the difficult period.
The meeting was attended by JKUAT officials, including Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration and Finance) Prof. Bernard Ikua, Prof. Jackson Kwanza (Research, Production and Extensions), Prof. Daniel Sila, Prof. Viviane Matiru, Dr. Catherine Ngamau, Prof. Fredah Wanzala, Dr. Wesley Cheruiyot, and Mr. Samuel Kamande. The Lanzhou University delegation included Ms. Wang Aju, Mr. Li Bin, and Ms. Zhao Ling.
