The Centre for Healthy Ageing (CEFHA) at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) recently hosted the Africa Ambassador to the WHO Global Network for Age-Friendly Cities and Communities, Mr. Michael Kanyingi Kimuhu, following growing regional recognition of the Centre’s work in advancing healthy ageing research, training, and advocacy.
During the visit on Monday, May 11, 2026, Mr. Kimuhu commended JKUAT for establishing a dedicated Centre for Healthy Ageing within the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, describing it as a strong indication of the University’s commitment to issues affecting older persons in society.
Receiving the ambassador on behalf of the Principal, College of Health Sciences, Dr. Matheri Mwangi noted that JKUAT has made considerable progress in ageing-related initiatives not only in Kenya, but across the region.
He revealed that the University is in the process of developing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with The Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, State Department for Senior Citizen Affairs to support a national assessment on the status of ageing and activities involving older persons in the country.
Dr. Matheri further highlighted the role of CEFHA in championing ageing issues through research, partnerships, advocacy, and community engagement initiatives.
Speaking during the visit, Mr. Kimuhu, emphasized that ageing should not prevent retired professionals from contributing meaningfully to university and community life. He noted that retired professors and professionals can play an important mentorship role for students and young academics, particularly at a time when institutions of higher learning are experiencing staffing challenges.
He also encouraged JKUAT to join the Global Network of Age-Friendly Universities, observing that membership would open opportunities for collaboration, research partnerships, and knowledge exchange with more than 115 universities globally.
Also present was Dr. Tasmeen Yamani, a Geriatric Practitioner and Technical Advisor at Suqoon Foundation, who congratulated JKUAT for taking a leadership role in ageing research and programmes through CEFHA.
She disclosed that Suqoon Foundation is in the process of signing an MoU with JKUAT to support age-friendly university programmes and projects. She further emphasized the University’s strategic positioning in rehabilitation sciences as a strong foundation for advancing ageing programmes in the region.
CEFHA Coordinator, Dr. Daniel Nyamongo, welcomed the ambassador’s visit, describing it as recognition of the Centre’s growing impact and expanding networks within Kenya and beyond.
He observed that ageing-related research and training remain limited in Kenya and across much of Africa, but expressed optimism that JKUAT, through its collaborations and partnerships, will soon establish a Master of Science programme in Geriatrics and Gerontology.
CEPHA, in partnership with other stakeholders is in the process of conducting nation-wide research to generate data that will inform policies and programs supporting older persons in Kenya.
