German Chancellor, Dr. Angela Merkel Signs the UoN Guests book

In her interaction with students, staff and other dignitaries, Dr. Merkel congratulated Kenya for setting a good example in dealing with the ugly past by embracing reforms.  Said she: “Kenya has already been a pace setter in reforms in the region”.

While touching on impunity, she urged the government to cooperate with the International Criminal Court (ICC) to eliminate the vice. Dr. Merkel lauded the Kenya’s role in peacemaking in Darfur, Sudan, that eventually led to the birth of the Southern Sudan Nation on 9th July 2011. The Chancellor promised that Germany would assist countries in the region to fight piracy and support political reforms without interfering with the processes.

While introducing the Chancellor, the Vice-Chancellor Prof. George Magoha outlined the financial and technical assistance the University has received from the German government including scholarships and research funds from the German Exchange Programme (DAAD).  He also mentioned the Munich University Eye Hospital, which has trained over 157 ophthalmologists from Africa.

The Minister for Higher Education Science and Technology Prof. Hellen Sambili led the team that received the Chancellor at the University of Nairobi. She enumerated government projects that have been supported by the German government as a sign of a strong relationship between the two countries. Dr. Merkel had earlier held consultations with H.E. President Mwai Kibaki and Prime minister, Rt. Hon. Raila Odinga.

The lecture which was attended by representatives from various interest groups was aired live on Citizen Television.

See more of the day's events in our gallery: German chancellor's visit to UON

Dr. Angela Merkel’s full speech will be posted soon.