Former South African President, Thabo Mbeki, was yesterday awarded an honorary degree by the Dedan Kimathi University for his role in the struggle for the freedom of South Africa.

While receiving the degree, Mbeki paid homage to Kenya’s freedom fighters, Dedan Kimathi and Waruhiu Itote who he said inspired the fight against apartheid system that practiced a policy of segregation under then white minority rule in South Africa.

The University, named after freedom fighter, Dedan Kimathi, awarded the former President a Degree of Doctor of Humane Letters during the institution’s 6th  graduation ceremony.

Vice chancellor, Prof Ndirangu Kioni commended Thabo Mbeki, saying his Foundation was important in preparing the next generation of African leaders. Kioni said, African scholars had an important role to play in resolving conflicts and under development experienced in the continent.

He challenged young university graduates in Africa the to focus on vision set by the African forefathers to make the continent prosperous.

Among those who witnessed the conferment of the degree is the Cabinet Secretary for ICT Joe Mucheru, his Education counterpart, Dr. Fred Matiang’i and Mukami Kimathi, widow of Mau Mau fighter DedanKimathi.

Over 1,400 students were conferred with degrees and diplomas at the ceremony held at the university grounds in Nyeri County.

By Cheruiyot Korir, April 29, 2017