The Kitale Museum Library now hosts the newly established Ken Walibora Corner, a dedicated section for preserving and archiving the literary works of the late Prof. Ken Walibora. This follows the official launch of the initiative on Wednesday, 19th March, 2025, led by Kibabii University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Isaac Ipara Odeo. The launch is a key outcome of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on 24th October, 2024, between Kibabii University and the County Government of Trans Nzoia. The MoU was officially signed by H.E. George Natembeya, the Governor of Trans Nzoia, and Prof. Isaac Ipara Odeo on behalf of Kibabii University. The project is spearheaded by Kibabii University’s Center for Languages and Cultural Studies (CLACS) headed by the Acting Director Dr. Eric Wamalwa.
As part of the launch, Kibabii University donated 93 books and newspaper articles authored by Prof. Walibora, along with an additional 400 volumes of books contributed through the African Library Project (ALP). To further enhance the Resource Center, audio recordings of Prof. Walibora’s works will be made available to complement the physical books and manuscripts. Additionally, assorted furniture were donated to facilitate the immediate operation of the Ken Walibora Corner.
To ensure the sustainability of this initiative, Kibabii University has advertised the Ken Walibora Tutorial Fellowship, an academic position designed for a Kiswahili scholar pursuing a PhD with a focus on Ken Walibora’s literary works. The research conducted under this fellowship will contribute to the expansion of the Ken Walibora Corner and other resource centers dedicated to African literature.
The Vice Chancellor committed to delivering every aspect of the MoU and termed it as the only gesture to inspire future generations.
“The establishment of the Ken Walibora Corner marks a significant step in preserving and promoting African literature, ensuring that future generations can access and appreciate the invaluable contributions of Prof. Ken Walibora to Kiswahili literature and beyond,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of Governor George Natembeya, the County Secretary and Head of Public Service, Ms. Truphosa Amere, expressed gratitude to Kibabii University for its commitment to fulfilling the objectives outlined in the MoU. She acknowledged the University’s role in ensuring systematic implementation of the partnership’s deliverables.
Also present at the event was Mrs. Jane Masika Wachwenge, the County Chief Officer for Gender, Youth, Sports, Culture & Tourism, among other County officers.
