
Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki Lauds the University of Embu’s Exemplary Performance Over the Past Decade
The University of Embu hosted the National Macadamia Conference held on 4th to 6th June, 2025. The event was graced by Deputy President H.E. Prof. Kithure Kindiki and notable figures including the Cabinet Secretary for Public Service, Hon. Geoffrey Ruku and Principal Secretary, State Department for Agriculture, Dr. Paul Ronoh, underscoring the government’s renewed commitment to transforming Kenya into a global leader in macadamia production and value addition.
Speaking during the opening ceremony, Deputy President, H.E. Hon. Prof. Kithure Kindiki, praised the University of Embu for its consistent exemplary performance over the past decade. He commended the University management led by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Daniel Mugendi, for upholding principles of good governance. The Deputy President reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the macadamia sector through strategic partnerships and inclusive stakeholder engagement.
In his welcoming remarks, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Daniel Mugendi, highlighted the university’s pivotal role in advancing the macadamia industry through research, education, and farmer empowerment. “As a University, we are pleased to be at the forefront of developing improved macadamia varieties with higher yields, better climate resilience, and enhanced nut quality,” he said.
The Vice-Chancellor also underscored the institution’s academic excellence, noting that the University has been ranked in the “Excellent” category for ten consecutive years in the Annual Public Service Performance Evaluation. The University leverages on its highly skilled and experienced teaching staff to nurture the skills and career aspirations of its students. The Vice-Chancellor reiterated the University’s pledge to support smallholder farmers, urging farmers to embrace macadamia farming as both a livelihood and a passion. The three-day conference will feature discussions on value addition, market linkages and policy frameworks to maximise benefits for farmers and investors alike.