04/09/2026
Egerton University Strengthens Partnerships in Agriculture and Environmental Conservation
Nakuru, Egerton | 4 September 2026
Egerton University has strengthened engagements with partners to advance collaboration in agricultural innovation, biotechnology, biodiversity conservation and restoration of the Mau ecosystem.
The University today hosted a delegation from Landscape Alliance and Ambassador Amina LIVE Foundation to explore opportunities in research, training, environmental conservation and community development. The delegation was received by Deputy Vice Chancellor, Administration, Finance and Planning- Prof. George Muthaa, alongside Prof. George Ogendi- Principal, Egerton University City Campus; Prof. Mwanaarusi Saidi-Registrar Academic Affairs Prof. George Owuor, Director, Research and Extension; Dr. Bernard Kirui, Dean, Faculty of Environment and Resources Development; and Dr. Caren Atalitsa.
Welcoming then team, Prof. Muthaa underscored the importance of collaboration among universities, research institutions, government agencies, industry, development partners and communities.
He said rather than working in isolation, institutions can combine their expertise, resources and networks to develop solutions that contribute to food security, environmental sustainability, livelihoods and national development.
Prof. Muthaa emphasized the importance of partnerships among universities, research institutions, government, industry, development partners and communities in addressing food security, environmental sustainability, livelihoods and national development.
The discussions also explored opportunities for professional and scientific capacity building, particularly in modern plant breeding and biotechnology.
The University’s experience through the African Plant Breeding Academy and programmes undertaken in collaboration with the University of California, Berkeley, was highlighted as an important platform for strengthening scientific skills and access to advanced plant-breeding technologies.
The partners expressed interest in building on these experiences to support further training, research and innovation in agricultural biotechnology.
The partner team, led by Dr. Philip Osano, Chief Operating Officer, Landscape Alliance, also explored collaboration around the Egerton University Botanical Garden, including conservation of endangered indigenous tree species and nursery-based restoration.
Dr. Osano was accompanied by Imelda Ingumba, Programme Coordinator, Landscape Alliance, and Kweya Gerry and Vintage Mwangi of Ambassador Amina LIVE Foundation.
Prof. Ogendi emphasized the need to move beyond counting trees planted to measuring their survival, growth and long-term environmental impact. He highlighted Egerton’s more than two decades of experience in Mau restoration, community engagement and school-based conservation, including the role of the Regional Centre of Excellence for the Mau Forest.
The engagement also explored linking sports and environmental conservation, including potential collaboration with Athletics Kenya, to use sporting events for environmental awareness and community mobilization.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to transform the discussions into practical joint initiatives with measurable impact, advancing research, food security, environmental sustainability and community well-being.
< John Emeripus
Communication Manager
Egerton University