
MMUST Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo, Among Dignitaries Who Graced the Just-Concluded Devolution Conference in Homa Bay
Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo, was among the dignitaries who graced the just-concluded Devolution Conference in Homabay County. The Conference, which ran from 12th to 15th August, 2025, was officially opened by the President of the Republic of Kenya, H.E Dr. William Samoei Ruto. The highly-attended event was themed ‘For the People, For Prosperity- Devolution as a Catalyst for Equity, Inclusion and Social Justice,’ and attracted participants from across the country and beyond. The Devolution Conference 2025, organized by the Council of Governors (CoG) in conjunction with State and Non-State actors, marked a significant milestone in Kenya’s Devolution journey while at the same time providing a platform for sharing experiences, best practices, and innovations in devolved governance.

A section of the top dignitaries at the Conference after a panel discussion.
The event was also attended by the European Union Ambassador to Kenya, Henriette Geiger, the Chairperson Council of Governors, FCPA Ahmed Abdullahi, the Governor-County Government of Homabay, Hon. Gladys Wanga, Governors from various Counties, Senators, Members of Parliament, academics, Heads of Parastatals and members of the public.
Speaking to the DCCM crew during the event, Prof. Shibairo reiterated the importance of participation by higher institutions of learning in events of such caliber. “As one of the leading Universities in this region, MMUST is excited to be part of this Conference. Such informative and productive gatherings offer an excellent platform for stakeholders from diverse Counties, disciplines and organizations to network and exchange best practices in a bid to contribute to positive outcomes for the Country’s devolution agenda,” stated the Vice Chancellor.

Prof. Solomon Shibairo (right) with the Ag. Principal MMUST TVET College-Prof. Stephen Odebero at the event.
The Conference, which is held every two years, saw MMUST market itself as an attractive destination for quality education, research and innovation. The University Communications and Marketing team utilized the opportunity to showcase the institution’s academic programmes and services to potential clients.
The MMUST team at the event included; the Ag. Principal MMUST TVET College- Prof. Stephen Odebero , Director, Quality Assurance- Prof. Danston Lilechi Barasa, the Registrar, Administration- Dr. Eglay Tsuma, Dean-School of Arts and Social Sciences-Dr. Rose Auma, Director of Corporate Communications and Marketing-Dr. Lydia Anyonje, the Marketing Officer-Mr. James Muriithi, Ms. Ruth Omega, Ms. Terry Muthoni and Ms. Mildred Ingado.

A section of delegates during the Conference.
MMUST is clearly on an upward swing regarding participation in national and international dialogues, proving that Universities should not be ivory towers, but rather position themselves at the forefront of conversations and activities that inform policy and sustainable development.
By Dr. Lydia Anyonje and Wangari Wambugu
Photos by Wangari Wambugu