Kibabii University on 3rd July 2026 hosted the International Face of Peace and Integrity Advocates (IFOPIA) during the commemoration of the International Day of Parliamentarism. The event brought together leaders from government, academia, civil society, and the local community to reflect on good governance, peace, integrity, and the fight against sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV).
Her Eminence Ambassador Dr. Jenny Chinaza, Global Director of IFOPIA, highlighted the organization’s commitment to promoting peace, ethical leadership, integrity, and social justice. She noted that IFOPIA recognizes individuals and institutions whose efforts contribute to building peaceful and inclusive societies.
The Chief Guest, H.E. Governor Kenneth Makelo Lusaka, delivered the keynote address on Good Governance and the Role of Government in Combating Gender-Based Violence. He emphasized that ending gender-based violence requires collective action from government, institutions, communities, and families.
“Good governance is measured not only by the quality of our institutions but also by how effectively we protect the vulnerable. The fight against gender-based violence is a shared responsibility,” he said.
Representing the Vice Chancellor, the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration, Finance, and Development), Prof. John Makokha, reaffirmed Kibabii University’s commitment to providing a safe and inclusive learning environment. He highlighted the University’s Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Policy and other initiatives aimed at preventing and responding to SGBV.
The Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor (Planning, Partnerships, Research and Innovation), Prof. Joshua Abuya, welcomed participants and thanked IFOPIA for selecting Kibabii University to host this year’s commemoration. Mr. Onex Opati, Coordinator of the Institute of Gender and Development Studies (IGDS), urged institutions of higher learning to intensify efforts to eliminate sexual and gender-based violence.
The event featured cultural performances by students from St. Mary’s Kibabii Boys High School and Cardinal Otunga Girls’ High School, celebrating Kenya’s rich cultural heritage.
A highlight of the day was the award and decoration ceremony presided over by Ambassador Dr. Jenny Chinaza. Governor Lusaka was recognized for his efforts in combating GBV in Bungoma County, while the Vice Chancellor of Kibabii University was honored for championing the University’s gender agenda.
Prof. Rispah Wepukhulu (Director, Institute of Gender and Development Studies), who was represented by Mr. Onex Opati (Coordinator, Institute of Gender and Development Studies), was also honoured alongside Ann Waguthi Barasa (County Director, State Department for Gender and Affirmative Action – Bungoma County), Janet Wafula Sirandula (Director and Founder, Dominion Training Institute), Mr. Norbert Wanjala Wanyonyi (Lecturer, Kibabii University and Chairman, Marrell Community Organisation), Rev. Eunice Rotich, and Mrs. Jane Nabwire Mukholi for their outstanding contributions to gender advocacy, peace, and community service.
The commemoration reaffirmed the importance of collective efforts in advancing peace, good governance, and gender equality.
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