Kalonzo Musyoka Leads Groundbreaking of Pan-African Institute at Lukenya University

Wiper Party leader and former Vice President Dr. Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka, EGH, SC, on Sunday presided over the groundbreaking ceremony of the Pan-African Institute at Lukenya University in Makueni County, in an event graced by prominent African dignitaries.

Among those present were Botswana’s Fourth President, H.E. Lt. Gen. (Rtd.) Dr. Seretse Khama Ian Khama, former Vice President of Liberia, H.E. Jewel Cianeh Taylor, Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Junior, Lukenya University Founder Mrs. Martha Kasanga Mulwa, Chancellor Prof. Margaret McKenna, Vice Chancellor Dr. Judith Wafula, Board of Trustees Chair Senator Sylvia Kasanga, and Pan-African Institute Chairman Prof. P.L.O. Lumumba.

In his keynote address, Dr. Musyoka — described by many as a true statesman — commended the founders of Lukenya University for their vision and perseverance, terming the institution “a beacon of African empowerment through education and innovation.”

“Lukenya University stands today as a shining example of how vision, determination, and purpose can create transformative institutions. Because of this vision, Makueni proudly hosts Kenya’s first non-profit university dedicated to African empowerment,” said Dr. Musyoka.

He paid tribute to the late Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga, describing him as “one of Africa’s greatest Pan-Africanists whose vision for a united and connected continent must live on.”

“Raila’s Pan-Africanism was never merely ideological; it was a way of life. He believed that Africa must speak with one voice and that our continent’s future depends on our ability to stand together,” Dr. Musyoka said.

Turning to current events on the continent, the former Vice President noted that a new wave of Pan-Africanism is being championed by Africa’s youth through peaceful demonstrations calling for accountability, transparency, and good governance.

“These protests are not acts of recklessness; they are acts of hope — a testament to a new generation rising to restore the dignity of Africa,” he said, urging African leaders to “listen to their people, not silence them.”

He cautioned that the rise of 19 coups in four years and the persistence of “WANTAM presidencies” were warning signs of growing public frustration across the continent.

As he laid the foundation stone for the Pan-African Institute, Dr. Musyoka called on African institutions to nurture a new generation of leaders grounded in integrity, innovation, and service.

“Let this Institute be a beacon — a place where ideas ignite, talents are nurtured, and Pan-African ideals come to life through education and action,” he said. “The journey is long, but the vision is clear: an Africa united, strong, and free.”

The ceremony concluded with a resounding call to unity as Dr. Musyoka reaffirmed his belief in Africa’s collective potential, declaring, “Viva Africa! God bless Kenya, and God bless our continent.”