From left Mr. Milton Gatahi, Prof. Florence Lenga and Prof. David Mburu during their farewell party after serving JKUAT since 1990.
Three renowned Soil Science researchers from the Department of Land Resource and Planning Management (LRPM) were honored by Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) as they officially retired from their long careers after more than three decades of dedicated service. Professors David Mburu, Kanze Lenga, and Mr. Milton Gatahi were honored for their exceptional dedication to advancing soil science education and research, leaving a lasting legacy on the institution and the field at large.
During a nostalgic farewell party on Friday, July 12, 2024, colleagues from the School of Animal Sciences and Natural Resources (SONRAS), encompassing Animal Science and LRPM, celebrated the trio’s departure.
These colleagues (most of whom are former students), who had grown into friends and family over the years, entertained the gathering with humorous anecdotes from their long-standing professional relationships spanning decades. They also expressed their gratitude appreciating the impact they had on their careers.
Professor David Mburu, renowned for his ground breaking research on soil fertility and sustainable agriculture, has been a pillar of the JKUAT Soil Science Department for over three decades. His pioneering work on soil nutrient management has significantly influenced agricultural practices in Kenya, helping farmers improve crop yields and maintain soil health.
Known for his high emotional intelligence, humility, and calm demeanour in the face of challenges, his exemplary leadership shone through during his tenure as Chairman of the Department of Land Resources and Animal Sciences.
He went on to serve as Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture and ultimately as the first Principal of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (COANRE). He is appreciated for establishing quality management systems that have greatly benefited the subsequent office bearers.
Prof. Mburu’s passion for mentorship has inspired countless students, many of whom have become distinguished researchers. His dedication, has left a lasting impact, nurturing the next generation of leaders in soil science.
Professor Kanze Lenga whose reputation is synonymous with excellence, started off as a part time lecturer in 1990 at the then Agriculture Engineering, where she was immediately appointed as the Chairperson and Dean.
This simultaneous appointment would hone her leadership skills for a later appointment as a Commissioner at the Commission for Higher Education – CHE (now Commission for University Education – CUE). Her mentorship, grounded in this experience, facilitated the smooth accreditation of JKUAT academic programs.
She attributed the growth of the College to teamwork and respect particularly with the management. Her colleagues noted that her support was instrumental in enabling many faculty members to pursue their studies abroad.
During her tenure, she actively assisted faculty in securing scholarships, which significantly increased the number of qualified academics at JKUAT.
Prof. Lenga’s commitment to promoting gender equality in the sciences has also been instrumental in encouraging more women to pursue careers in soil science and related fields. She was the only Professor of Soil Physics and Biometeorology at JKUAT.
Her research brought a unique perspectives to the department with her expertise that has provided critical insights into soil health and its impact on biodiversity thus promoting environmental conservation.
As her journey at JKUAT concludes, Prof. Lenga embarks on a new chapter as she has been appointed to the Quality Assurance for Africa. This Pan-African quality assurance framework aims to harmonize higher education across the continent.
Mr. Milton Gatahi, played an essential role as a lecturer and soil science expert, focusing on soil erosion control and land reclamation. His practical approach to teaching and fieldwork has equipped students with the skills needed to tackle real-world environmental challenges
His first assignment at the Ministry of Agriculture in the late 70’s entailed collecting soil samples at a field in Juja. This, he was informed, was to guide the construction of a new institution the Jomo Kenyatta College of Agriculture and Technology (JKCAT), which later became JKUAT.
Remarkably, in 1990, this very institution would employ him, marking a significant moment that seemed like a meeting with destiny. His research efforts in Soil Science and Geochemistry have empowered local farmers with knowledge and techniques to combat soil degradation and improve land productivity.
During the farewell party, he urged the faculty to establish a Centre of Excellence focused on land use and planning. He emphasized the importance of this initiative in enhancing land productivity, noting that ten percent of the land must sustain the growing population of 50 million, as mandated by the Constitution of Kenya
This, he said, can be achieved through collaboration with the country’s Land Commission, and related agencies such as Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) and the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA).
The Principal of COANRE, Prof. Daniel Sila, highlighted the trio’s dedication to excellence and their unwavering commitment to advancing soil science research and education.
“Professors Mburu, Lenga, and Mr. Gatahi were driven by passion and mastered their craft, shaping the curricula we offer today,” said Prof. Sila.
“Their contribution has not only enhanced the academic and research excellence of JKUAT, but also significantly influenced sustainable agricultural practices in Kenya, because soil is the bedrock of agricultural productivity.”
He emphasized the importance of leveraging the expertise of retired scientists, highlighting their vast institutional knowledge and experience and encouraged ongoing collaboration to benefit from their insights even after retirement.
“Professors are incredibly resourceful and, over the course of their careers, they master the art of simplifying complex concepts. They understand the unique needs of students at every level, whether undergraduate, master’s or doctorate so we hope to continue benefiting from their expertise. We celebrate and thank you for your significant contributions to JKUAT.”
The celebration culminated in the cutting of a multi-layered cake that symbolized the soil structure, highlighting the lasting impact of the three distinguished researchers on the soil science community and the rich and robust foundation they have established for future scholars to thrive.
From left Prof David Mburu, Prof. Florence Lenga and Mr. Milton Gatahi all from Land Resource and Planning Management Department celebrate their retirement from JKUAT
SONRAS turned up to bid farewell to their beloved colleagues
Courtesy: JKUAT