The 8th Edition of the Annual University of Nairobi Research Week, themed “Harnessing Research for Resilience and Sustainability of Communities,” commenced on October 28, 2024, and concluded on November 1, 2024. The event featured over 20 conferences across ten faculties, drawing together leading researchers, industry experts, academics, staff, and students.

The opening day included an official ceremony with the Chief Guest, CS for Education Hon. Julius Migos. In his opening remarks, he stressed the need for universities to seek external funding due to limited government resources. He noted that “although KSh700 million has been allocated to research this year, it is insufficient to fully meet research demands.”

In his remarks, Acting DVC (RIE) Prof. Francis J. Mulaa highlighted the University’s commitment to fostering collaboration between academia and industry to tackle pressing challenges, enhance community resilience, and promote sustainable solutions.

“This year’s Research Week facilitates meaningful collaboration between academia and industry, creating a synergy that transforms research into practical solutions. We believe that by working together, we can produce groundbreaking research that addresses critical issues facing our communities, reinforcing their resilience and long-term sustainability. Let this Week inspire collaboration and the relentless pursuit of knowledge. Together, we can build a more resilient and sustainable future.,” said VC Prof. Margret Hutchinson.

Notable keynote speeches were delivered by Prof. Dickson Adala, CEO of the NRF Institute of Higher Education, and Du Shan, Executive General Manager of China Road and Bridge Corporation, setting the tone for a week centered on collaboration and impactful research.

The Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences led with the most conferences (five), including the Diplomacy Conference (Sino-Africa International Conference), organized by the Department of Diplomacy and International Studies under the sub-theme China-Africa Relations: Pathways to Sustainable Development” held in UoN Towers, MLT 403, the event offered insightful discussions on the evolving partnerships between China and Africa in driving sustainable development. This session featured three paper presentations by eleven presenters, sparking engaging plenary discussions.

In her paper presentation, Prof. Amb. Maria Nzomo discussed China’s role as Africa’s largest trading partner, focusing on its involvement in African infrastructure and digital development. She also addressed concerns regarding economic dependency, environmental impact, and limited job creation in Africa due to Chinese partnerships.

This relationship, however, has raised debates. Critics argue that significant borrowing from China risks creating economic dependency and a “debt trap” for African nations, with additional concerns about job creation and environmental sustainability.

Stephen Nyangah presented his paper, “Building Bridges: People-to-People Diplomacy and Mutual Understanding in China-Africa Cultural Exchange,” which examined cultural diplomacy’s role in fostering mutual understanding between the two regions. This session is part of an extensive lineup from the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, which presented over 50 papers and plenary sessions across its five conferences during UoN Research Week 2024.

The conferences covered a wide range of topics, addressing issues from international relations to cultural studies and social justice. Participants from diverse disciplines shared research findings and engaged in enriching discussions. As the week progressed, attendees looked forward to more insightful presentations and opportunities for collaboration to further enhance the academic community.

Conferences in which Faculty participated"

1. The 7th Annual Conference on the Status of African Women
2. Literature Conference
3. Diplomacy Conference
4. 7th Annual Victim Support Conference