Renowned Kiswahili scholar Prof. Chacha Nyaigoti Chacha delivered an emotive lecture at the 2nd Ken Walibora Public Lecture hosted by Kibabii University on 15th September 2025. Prof. Chacha praised the remarkable life and contributions of the late Dr. Ken Walibora, likening his legacy to that of the celebrated Tanzanian poet Shaaban Robert. The lecture was the highlight of a celebration that brought together Kiswahili scholars, students, and literature enthusiasts from across the country.
“Walibora’s works transcend language; they speak of unity, growth, and human development,” Prof. Chacha said.
He noted that just like Shaaban Robert, whose writings became foundational to Kiswahili learning at all levels, Walibora’s scholarship will continue to shape discourse locally and globally. He thanked Kibabii University for honouring such a prolific scholar and giving him the respect he deserves.
Earlier, in his opening remarks, the Vice Chancellor, Kibabii University Prof. Isaac Ipara Odeo, emphasized how dearly Dr. Walibora is remembered within the scholarly world and especially at Kibabii University. He announced that the University Council had resolved to dedicate an annual Public Lecture in Walibora’s honour. A special section has also been set aside in the University Library to celebrate his works. Additionally, through the goodwill of H.E. George Natembeya, Governor of Trans Nzoia County, Kibabii University and the County Government have partnered to dedicate a space at the Kitale National Museum for Walibora’s works, making them accessible to the public.
The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration, Finance and Development) Prof. Donald Siamba shared fond memories of his youthful interactions with Walibora, recalling his friend’s relentless passion for Kiswahili from an early age. He remembered how in their youthful years Walibora would throw sticks at him whenever he struggled with Kiswahili.
“To counter his constant bullying, I would stick to my mother tongue as he spoke his Kiswahili whenever we were together, something that really amused him. His dream for Kiswahili was a dream he carried from his childhood,” said Prof. Siamba.
On his part, Prof. Ernest Mohochi, Director of the Centre for Languages and Cultural Studies (CLACS), expressed gratitude to the University Management for its unwavering support in advancing Kiswahili studies. He commended the organizing committee for ensuring the success of the second Public Lecture.
The event also featured the launch of the Ken Walibora Book, an initiative first announced during the inaugural Public Lecture by the Vice Chancellors of Kibabii University and Kisii University in 2024. Prof. Ipara lauded the Editorial Team for their diligent work in preparing the publication for launch.
Among the distinguished guests were Prof. Joseph Maitaria (Director, School of Graduate Studies, Karatina University), Prof. Mark Kandagor (Associate Dean, School of Arts, Moi University), Dr. Fred Simiyu (Chairman, Chama Cha Kiswahili Cha Taifa – CHAKITA), Dr. Fridah Miruka (MMUST), Dr. Sanja Leo (University of Nairobi), Dr. Samuel Riro and Dr. Nyagemi Bwocha (Kisii University), Kiswahili authors Mr. Kenna Wasike and Mr. Jeff Mandila, as well as postgraduate and undergraduate students and members of the public.
For a copy of the Ken Walibora book, kindly contact: clacs@kibu.ac.ke
