Amref International University Monthly Bulletin – November 2025
Overview In this November edition, we highlight AMIU’s groundbreaking institutional milestones, global partnerships, impactful training initiatives, and the successful hosting of the 2025 MAPS Summer School. These achievements continue to strengthen AMIU’s position as Africa’s leading institution in Primary Health Care training, research, and policy engagement. Sections Featured News Department & Faculty Highlights Student & Participant Stories Partnerships & Collaborations Community Outreach Achievements & Milestones Closing Remarks Section 1: Featured News AMIU Awarded University Charter & New Chancellor Installed AMIU received its official University Charter, marking a historic elevation to full accreditation and autonomy. Mrs. Tsitsi Masiyiwa was installed as the new Chancellor. President Dr. William Ruto celebrated AMIU as “a national asset” and a driver of UHC and PHC reform. MAPS Summer School 2025 Successfully Hosted at AMIU From 10–15 November, AMIU hosted the first MAPS Summer School on “Understanding Migration and Forced Displacement in Sub-Saharan Africa,” bringing together participants from 12 countries. Day 1–5 Highlights: Migration theories, climate-driven displacement, prosperity & urban transitions, mental health & gender, and global peace-oriented policy dialogue. Section 2: Department & Faculty Highlights Digital Health Capacity Strengthening: AMIU faculty and staff participated in the Project ECHO Africa Partner Launch Training, acquiring skills in designing and sustaining digital learning programs, TeleECHO facilitation, curriculum design, and digital monitoring through iECHO. Section 3: Student & Participant Stories Participants of the MAPS Summer School engaged in field visits across Nairobi , including Kivuli Centre, Mama Pendo Africa, and HIAS Refugee Trust , experiencing firsthand the social and human dimensions of migration, resilience, and community-based empowerment. Section 4: Partnerships & Collaborations Abbott Rapid Diagnostics x AMIU x MOH-Kenya TB Program A successful Online Blended Learning initiative trained 3,000+ clinicians on LF-LAM testing across three counties, improving early TB diagnosis among PLHIV. Following strong outcomes, the program will scale nationwide and extend to five African countries: Senegal, Zambia, Mozambique, Uganda, and Nigeria. Global Academic Partnerships AMIU strengthened collaborations with Project ECHO Africa, WHO AFRO, Africa CDC, AFENET, Lwala Community Alliance, and AMPATH, advancing digital health learning, knowledge exchange, and community health systems research. Section 5: Community Outreach Through MAPS field-based experiential learning, AMIU reinforced its community-centered educational approach, exposing learners to local innovations transforming livelihoods, psychosocial support systems, and refugee empowerment. Section 6: Achievements & Milestones AMIU now offers 78 accredited programs. Student population reaches 3,800 learners across 32 countries. AMIU has trained 271 primary healthcare workers impacting local and regional PHC systems. Extension of PHC Congress 2026 Abstract Deadline to December 12, 2025, to accommodate broader participation. Section 7: Closing Remarks November has been a defining month of growth, recognition, and continental leadership for AMIU. As we move into the festive season, we celebrate the partnerships, trainings, and achievements that continue to position AMIU as Africa’s hub for transformative PHC education. Amref International University Developing fit-for-purpose leaders for Africa’s Primary Health Care. Northlands, Nairobi | www.amref.ac.ke
Amref International University Hosts the First MAPS Summer School
MAPS Summer School 2025: Developing Policy-Oriented Research on Migration and Displacement in Sub-Saharan Africa Hosted by Amref International University (AMIU) in Nairobi and co-funded by the European Union, the inaugural MAPS Summer School brought together young researchers, policy thinkers, and migration practitioners from across Africa and Europe for a transformative week of learning, collaboration, and multidimensional exploration of migration and forced displacement. Held from 10th–14th November, the Summer School was designed to deepen understanding of migration as a global, interconnected, and constantly evolving phenomenon. Across five thematic pillars : Planet, Prosperity, People, and Peace ; participants engaged with international scholars, participated in field activities, and co-created knowledge meant to inform policy and practice in Sub-Saharan Africa. DAY 1 PEOPLE & PURPOSE: Understanding Migration and Displacement in Sub-Saharan Africa The Summer School opened with remarks from Prof. Joachim Osur, Vice Chancellor of AMIU, who underscored the urgency of building a research-grounded, Africa-led understanding of migration. Day 1 introduced participants to the foundations of migration studies through two framing sessions: Session 1: Understanding African Migration – Patterns, Pathways, and Data, highlighting regional movement, drivers, and evidence gaps. 1.Most regular migration occurs within Africa Africa’s migrant stock is more youthful than global average 2.Irregular movements along mixed migration routes occur across the continent for a variety of reasons with diverse populations Irregular journeys are often perilous and subject to heightened protection risks and vulnerabilities 3.Displacement is another key driver of mobility across the continent with conflict and, increasingly, disasters triggering movements Pathways towards sustainable solutions are critical to ensure durable outcomes for displaced populations. Session 2: Migration & Displacement – Definitions, Phenomena, and Theories, exploring global health implications and migration trends across Southern, Eastern, and Western Africa. Overview: Stephen Castles and Mark Miller in their book (2020) define The Age of Migration as the general transformation of global economy and its influence on push and pull factors behind international migrations Global scales economy Improved transportations, communications, dissemination of information Growing international mobility of capitals and trades Increasing manufacturing economies in middle-low income countries High workers mobility following growth of informal, flexible or precarious labor market Micro-electronics and digital revolution and reduction of manual work This first pillar established a shared vocabulary and intellectual grounding for the days to follow. DAY 2 PLANET: Climate Change and Mobility Under the Planet theme, Day 2 examined the deep linkages between environmental change and population movement. Participants engaged in: 1. Shared Conceptual Frameworks explaining the climate–migration nexus. Major Frameworks included: PREVENTING a. The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015-2030) Goal: Prevent new and reduce existing disaster risk through a multi-hazard and inclusive approach b. The Paris Agreement (2015) Goal: limiting global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius compared to pre-industrial levels MANAGING a. 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (SDGs) Goal: universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure that all people enjoy peace and prosperity by 2030 b. The Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration (2018) Goal: create a framework for international cooperation on migration, based on a set of common principles and objectives. PROTECTING a. The Global Compact on Refugees (2018) Goal: support host communities and foster productive (self-reliant) lives for refugees. b. The Platform on Disaster Displacement Goal: implement effective strategies to protect people displaced across borders in the context of disasters and climate change. 2. Climate Change & Natural Resources, a critical look at pressures on land, water, and livelihoods. Purpose of this role play during the session was to use En-ROADS to simulate policy choices and understand their effects on global climate outcomes. A dynamic afternoon role-play on Climate Action, Migration, and Global Cooperation allowed participants to simulate negotiation, adaptation planning, and collaborative governance , bringing theory to life. 3. Rural–Urban Migration Driven by Climate Stressors, analyzing patterns of adaptation and vulnerability. Overview: Environmental deterioration, rural poverty ,policy inadequacies, and growing urbanization all play a role in Tanzania’s climate-induced migration. Addressing these difficulties will necessitate coordinated, multi-sectoral solutions that view migration not only as a problem, but also as available adaptive response when supported by proper infrastructure, governance, and social protection Predictive Models for Climate-Related Migration, exploring tools that anticipate displacement and support proactive planning. DAY 3 PROSPERITY: Economic and Social Dimensions of Migration Day 3 focused on how migration shapes prosperity at individual, community, and national levels. Sessions included: Economy: Migration decisions, labour dynamics, and fiscal impacts across Sub-Saharan Africa. Welfare: Equal access to urban services and the right to the city, informed by research on social and health service access indicators. Housing & Land: Housing rights and urban integration, exploring affordability, informality, and displacement within rapidly urbanizing settings. This pillar emphasized how inclusive economic and urban policies are essential to fostering shared prosperity for both migrants and host communities. DAY 4 PEOPLE: Migration, Mental Health & Human Experiences With a focus on the lived realities of migration, Day 4 brought participants into Nairobi’s community spaces for immersive field visits. They visited: Kivuli Centre, where displaced youth convert recycled materials into art, technology, and opportunity. Mama Pendo Africa, a collective where refugee women turn craft into empowerment, weaving resilience into every product. HIAS Refugee Trust of Kenya, an environment where psychosocial support, education, and entrepreneurship restore dignity and belonging. The afternoon continued with sessions on Migration & Mental Health and a working group discussion on Gender, Health, and Generational Dynamics, highlighting the emotional and interpersonal dimensions of mobility. DAY 5 PEACE: Policies, Practices, and Governance The final day spotlighted the policy landscape guiding migration systems in Africa. Key engagements included: EU–Africa Cooperation on Migration and Asylum Policy, examining shared priorities, responsibilities, and governance frameworks. Dialogue with Local Stakeholders, bringing in community voices and practical realities of migration management. Interactive Subgroup Discussions, where participants co-designed peace-driven policy insights and actionable recommendations. This final pillar reinforced that sustainable migration governance hinges on cooperation, inclusion, and a commitment to human dignity. LOOKING AHEAD: Building a Stronger Future for Migration Research in Africa After five days of
A New Era for AMIU: Charter Award and Chancellor Installation Mark a Defining Moment
Amref International University (AMIU) reached a historic milestone on 19th November 2025 during a landmark ceremony at its Northlands Campus in Ruiru. The University received its Charter and formally installed Mrs. Tsitsi Masiyiwa as Chancellor. The event brought together national leaders, global partners, faculty, alumni, and students in a celebration of academic excellence, institutional growth, and the strengthening of Africa’s health workforce. Award of Charter: Recognition of Excellence and a New Level of Autonomy The award of the Charter affirmed AMIU’s academic quality and its commitment to producing skilled, ethical, and community-centered health professionals. The recognition enables the University to expand programs, strengthen research, and deepen community partnerships across Africa. The Cabinet Secretary for Education, Julius Migosi, applauded AMIU’s milestone and acknowledged its increasing role in national and continental development. “With this Charter, AMIU is now positioned to play an even greater role in providing education and training that responds to the real health needs of Kenya, Africa, and the world,” he said. “This is a crucial step toward strengthening the health sector both locally and globally.” His Excellency President Dr. William Samoei Ruto presided over the ceremony and commended AMIU’s leadership in health sciences education. “Today, we honor an institution that has stood at the heart of public and community health,” he said. “AMIU has shown that African institutions can shape African solutions. This Charter signals an important step toward strengthening the health workforce needed for Universal Health Coverage.” University leaders highlighted the growth that has prepared AMIU for this moment. The institution now offers 78 academic programs and serves more than 3,800 students from 32 countries. Over the years, AMIU has trained more than 271 primary healthcare workers who now contribute to health leadership across the continent. Leadership Reflections on AMIU’s Growth The Chairman of Commission for University Education (CUE), Prof. James Onyango Awino, congratulated the University and reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to supporting institutions that demonstrate strong quality standards and relevance in their training. He noted that AMIU’s focus on primary healthcare, community health, and health systems leadership aligns closely with national priorities and the needs of African health systems. A Vision for the Future: Installation of the Chancellor A second highlight of the day was the installation of Mrs. Tsitsi Masiyiwa as Chancellor of AMIU. A respected philanthropist and co-founder of the Higherlife Foundation and Delta Philanthropies, she brings decades of leadership in education, youth empowerment, and health access. In her remarks, she shared her vision for the University and its role in shaping future health leaders. “AMIU represents the future of Africa’s health systems,” she said. “It is here that the next generation of ethical, skilled, and community-centered professionals will be developed.” She encouraged the University community to embrace innovation, service, and collaboration, noting that “every student who passes through AMIU carries the responsibility to serve with integrity and uplift the communities they represent.” Her leadership is expected to strengthen AMIU’s partnerships, research efforts, and academic growth as the University enters a new phase of development. Perspective from Amref Health Africa Leadership Dr. Githinji Gitahi, Group CEO of Amref Health Africa, reflected on the importance of the milestone within the organisation’s larger mission. He noted how AMIU grew from a vision rooted in community health to an institution preparing leaders for national and global challenges. “AMIU is the embodiment of Amref’s six-decade commitment to health equity,” he said. “From training midwives in remote villages to now shaping thinkers, researchers, and innovators, AMIU has evolved to meet Africa’s health needs with African-led solutions. This Charter and Chancellor installation are catalysts for even greater impact.” Showcasing Innovation in Learning During the ceremony, President Ruto toured AMIU’s multi-modal learning space, a modern environment designed to provide flexible, interactive, and inclusive instruction. The technology-enabled classroom integrates on-site and remote learning, ensuring that students can access high-quality training regardless of their location. The multi-modal space reflects AMIU’s long-standing emphasis on practical, community-based learning and innovation. It also draws on Amref Health Africa’s mission to expand access to quality healthcare by empowering health workers with relevant and up-to-date skills. Looking Ahead: A Shared Commitment to Growth and Leadership As AMIU enters a new chapter, its leadership outlined strategic priorities that will guide future growth. These include expanding academic programs, strengthening digital learning pathways, deepening research, and establishing the Level 6 Amref University Hospital as a regional hub for clinical training and excellence. The events of 19 November signified more than institutional milestones. They reflected a collective commitment to shaping a healthier future for Africa through education, innovation, and community-centered leadership. A Defining Moment for the Community The double milestones were more than ceremonial check boxes. They represented a collective commitment to excellence, innovation, and service to African communities. Students, staff, alumni, and partners celebrated a transformative moment that signalled AMIU’s readiness to deepen its contribution to health education and systems strengthening across the continent. With renewed autonomy, a growing community, and visionary leadership, AMIU is now poised to redefine what health sciences education and amplify its impact across the continent. Written by: Angela Gichimu
Amref International University Monthly Bulletin – October 2025
Introduction In this October edition, we celebrate AMIU’s growing global footprint through transformative partnerships, impactful public lectures, major institutional milestones, and student-centered initiatives that continue to redefine health education in Africa. Section 1: Featured News AMIU Takes Over Chairmanship of the Africa Health Collaborative (AHC)Amref International University officially assumed leadership of the Africa Health Collaborative, succeeding the African Leadership University. Under the stewardship of Prof. Joachim Osur, AMIU is set to coordinate this vibrant network in advancing Primary Health Care (PHC) and Universal Health Coverage (UHC) across Africa , a major milestone announced during the #AHCConvening2025 in Kigali, Rwanda. Distinguished Visit by H.E. Margaret Kenyatta and Dr. Manu ChandariaAMIU and Amref Health Africa leadership were honored to host H.E. Margaret Kenyatta and Dr. Manu Chandaria at the Northlands Campus. Dr. Chandaria reaffirmed his support with a pledge to name the Academic Block in his honor, while H.E. Kenyatta committed to funding 10 full scholarships for young health leaders , a powerful gesture towards equitable education access. Section 2: Academic Highlights Public Lecture – Voices from IsioloKathy Dodworth delivered a captivating public lecture on Community Health in Pastoralist Kenya, shedding light on CHVs’ life histories, gender roles, and Kenya’s pioneering digitization pilot for community health data — sparking deep reflection among students and faculty alike. MAPS Summer School Call for ApplicationsIn partnership with Sapienza Università di Roma under the EU co-funded MAPS Project, AMIU invites postgraduate students to the Summer School on Migration and Forced Displacement in Sub-Saharan Africa, set for November 10–16, 2025, in Amref International University, Northlands in Nairobi. Section 3: Opportunities & Announcements 2026 Postgraduate Scholarships Now OpenThrough the Mastercard Foundation–funded Africa Health Collaborative, AMIU is offering full postgraduate scholarships in three flagship programs: Master of Public Health (Applied Epidemiology) Master of Science in Health Systems Management Master of Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights and Policy📅 Application Deadline: October 15, 2025 PHC Congress 2026 – Call for Abstracts ExtendedResearchers, health professionals, and innovators are invited to submit abstracts for the 2nd Primary Health Care Congress (2026) under the theme “Redesigning Primary Health Care: Building Resilience Amid Global Uncertainty.”📅 New Deadline: October 31, 2025 | 📍 Venue: AMIU Northlands Campus Section 4: Partnerships and Collaborations AMIU strengthened ties with global and continental institutions , including Amref Health Africa, Lwala Community Alliance, JOOUST, GLUK, Welwitchia University, and University of Johannesburg , fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and thought leadership in Primary Health Care education. Section 5: Campus Moments Ubuntu Club Honours AMREF’s LegacyAMIU Ubuntu club hosted the family of Sir Archibald, one of AMREF Flying Doctors’ founders, at the Northlands Campus. The visit featured a tour, a presentation on Ubuntu’s “HER” project, and the planting of a Meru Oak tree , commemorating his enduring legacy in health innovation and compassion. Visit by Former President H.E. Uhuru KenyattaH.E. Uhuru Kenyatta visited AMIU’s Northlands Campus, commending the University and Amref Health Africa for advancing Africa’s health systems and pledging his support for the establishment of a teaching hospital dedicated to women’s and children’s health. Section 6: Milestones and Publications Launch of the AMIU Bulletin – July to October 2025 EditionAMIU unveiled its inaugural Quarterly Newsletter, highlighting major moments — from the 6th Graduation Ceremony to the establishment of a state-of-the-art Simulation Laboratory supported by Health Carousel.📖 Read it here: https://sway.cloud.microsoft/jypVhqA9xExHiF5l?ref=Link Closing Remarks October 2025 reaffirmed AMIU’s role as a continental leader in applied health sciences education. Through partnerships, innovation, and leadership, the University continues to empower Africa’s next generation of health professionals. Amref International University : Producing fit-for-purpose leaders for Africa’s Primary Health Care. © 2025 AMIU | All Rights Reserved
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta Visits Amref International University (AMIU)
Amref International University (AMIU) had the distinct honour of hosting Former President of the Republic of Kenya, H.E. Uhuru Kenyatta at our Northlands Campus today. The visit was a moment of pride and inspiration for the AMIU community, reflecting the University’s growing reputation as a centre of excellence in health sciences education and innovation. The former President was received by Amref Health Africa Group CEO, Dr. Githinji Gitahi, Prof. Joachim Osur, Vice Chancellor of AMIU, together with members of the University’s leadership, staff and students. During his tour, H.E. Uhuru Kenyatta visited key facilities, including the Academic block and the University library, where he interacted with staff and students. Dr. Githinji briefed the former Head of State on AMIU’s mission, plans and progress, emphasising the University’s role in developing skilled health professionals and driving Africa’s health transformation agenda through innovation, research, and community engagement. The discussion also focused on the role of partnerships and leadership in shaping Africa’s health future. H.E. Uhuru Kenyatta commended Amref Health Africa and the Amref International University for their continued contribution to the continent’s health systems strengthening. “It is encouraging to see the impact this institution is making in preparing a new generation of health professionals. This work is vital to our shared future,” he said. He also gave words of encouragement to the students, citing the importance of the education they are receiving at AMIU and its benefit not just for Kenya but for the continent. The former president also, emphasised his commitment and availability to support the construction of the University’s teaching hospital which will focus on providing care for women and children In his remarks, Dr. Githinji noted, “We are honoured by the former President’s visit and his words of encouragement. His presence reinforces our commitment to advancing quality health education and innovation for Africa’s prosperity.” The visit also included a special birthday celebration in honour of H.E. Kenyatta, held at the university Library. The moment, marked by warmth and camaraderie, reflected AMIU’s strong sense of community and appreciation for leadership that champions education and health advancement.
Amref International University Assumes Chairmanship of the Africa Health Collaborative
Kigali, Rwanda | October 2025 – Amref International University (AMIU) has officially assumed the chairmanship of the Africa Health Collaborative (AHC), succeeding the African Leadership University (ALU), which has ably led the Collaborative over the past year. The leadership handover took place during the Africa Health Collaborative Annual Convening 2025 held in Kigali, Rwanda, marking a defining moment in Africa’s health leadership journey. The transition symbolizes more than a change in leadership , it represents a renewed collective commitment by AHC partner institutions to strengthen Primary Health Care (PHC) systems and accelerate progress toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC) across the African continent. Funded by the Mastercard Foundation, the Africa Health Collaborative brings together nine leading universities and Amref Health Africa, all united by a shared vision to build a resilient and skilled health workforce for Africa. Through collaboration, innovation, and research, the Collaborative seeks to transform health education and delivery models that respond to Africa’s evolving health challenges. Speaking during the handover, Professor Joachim Osur, Vice Chancellor of Amref International University and incoming Chair of the Africa Health Collaborative, reaffirmed AMIU’s commitment to advancing Africa’s health agenda through strategic partnerships, research, and training. “This moment signifies a new phase of action and innovation. As Chair, AMIU will work with all partners to reimagine how Africa trains, empowers, and sustains its health workforce to deliver equitable and people-centered care,” said Prof. Osur. Under AMIU’s stewardship, the Collaborative will continue to build on the foundation laid by ALU, focusing on fostering knowledge exchange, capacity building, and leveraging technology to transform health systems. Amref International University, together with Amref Health Africa, has long been a thought leader in community health systems, PHC policy, and competency-based health education. Through pioneering research and the training of thousands of frontline health workers, AMIU continues to exemplify how universities can drive change beyond classrooms and into communities. The new chapter of leadership will culminate in the 2026 Africa Health Collaborative Annual Convening, to be co-hosted by Amref International University and Amref Health Africa in Nairobi, Kenya. The event will provide a platform for reflection, learning, and recommitment to a shared vision of a healthier, more equitable Africa. As the Africa Health Collaborative embarks on this next phase, AMIU calls on partners, stakeholders, and health champions across the continent to join in shaping the future of health leadership and education in Africa. #AfricaHealthCollaborative #AmrefInternationalUniversity #UniversalHealthCoverage #HealthLeadership #PanAfricanEducation #MastercardFoundation #AHCConvening2025
Dr. Manu Chandaria and H.E. Margaret Kenyatta Visit AMIU, Championing Health and Education in Africa
Amref International University (AMIU), in partnership with the leadership of Amref Health Africa, was honored to host two distinguished champions of health and education — Dr. Manu Chandaria, renowned industrialist and philanthropist, and Her Excellency Margaret Kenyatta, Former First Lady of Kenya — at the Northlands Campus. The visit featured a guided tour of AMIU’s cutting-edge facilities, including the Academic Block and University Library, where guests were briefed on the university’s growing impact in primary health care education and its vision to become a continental leader in applied health sciences. Dr. Chandaria, a long-standing supporter of Amref Health Africa since 1989 through the founding of the Friends of Amref network, commended the university’s remarkable growth and reaffirmed his commitment by pledging to name the Academic Block in his honor. Her Excellency Margaret Kenyatta expressed her continued dedication to empowering youth through education, announcing a generous pledge to fund 10 full scholarships for promising students pursuing health sciences at AMIU.“I believe in the power of education to transform communities. This campus is a symbol of what can be achieved when vision meets determination,” she remarked. This landmark visit comes as AMIU scales up its infrastructure, partnerships, and student intake to meet Africa’s growing health workforce needs. The unwavering leadership and support of champions like Dr. Chandaria and H.E. Margaret Kenyatta continue to strengthen AMIU’s mission of shaping the future of health education in Africa.
Amref International University Monthly Bulletin – September 2025
Introduction This issue marks a month of partnerships, academic accomplishment, leadership growth, and youth empowerment. Welcoming international partners and scholars to mentoring students and challenging them to debate, September was a demonstration of the firm commitment of AMIU towards creating fit-for-purpose leaders for Primary Health Care in Africa. Featured News Save the Date! PHC Congress 2026 – AMIU launched the 2nd Primary Health Care Congress taking place on March 4–6, 2026, at the Northlands Campus. The congress will gather international partners to reshape PHC goals and drive forward Universal Health Coverage (UHC). New Student Orientation – The September intake started with an engaging orientation week led by VC Prof. Joachim Osur, ushering in the new batch of tomorrow’s PHC champions. Department & Faculty Highlights Congratulations to Prof. Dancan Irungu, Prof. Alice Lakati, and Prof. Josephat Nyagero on their promotion to Associate Professor! Their scholarly work, mentorship, and institutional building continue to characterize AMIU’s academic distinction. Prof. Alice Lakati, Director of Research and Community Extension, will represent AMIU at the World Health Summit 2025 in “Taking Responsibility for Health in a Fragmented World.” Student & Alumni Stories Alumni Spotlight: Meet Celine Adhiambo and Barach Magdalene, newly minted Nursing graduates who are already leaving their imprint on the community’s health through altruistic service and leadership. Kenya Model United Nations (KMUN) Mock Debate: The inaugural mock debate of the 25th KMUN session, whose topic was “Nuclear Energy for a Sustainable Future,” took place at AMIU. Students demonstrated diplomacy, critical thinking, and innovation on climate and sustainability issues. Partnerships & Collaborations Harleys Limited Partnership: AMIU held a roundtable with Harleys Limited to address internship programs, student development, and collaboration for AMIU’s upcoming hospital project. Pfizer Collaboration: A strategic meeting between Pfizer and Amref Health Africa addressed the digital capacity development of health workers in oncology and AMR. Marie Stopes Kenya MoU: A fresh MoU was formed to drive cooperation on training, research, and internships, further developing practical experience for AMIU students. Amref Italy Visit: AMIU received Amref Italy Ambassador Paola Gioia Kaze Formisano, journalist Albachiara Re, and Press Officer Fabio Bellumore to participate in an interactive campus tour and scholarship expansion conversations. Nina Munk Visit: Philanthropist Nina Munk and daughter Sophia Galarza visited AMIU to meet with student ambassadors and explore possible partnership prospects to provide education access. World Contraception Day 2025: In conjunction with the Ministry of Health–Kenya and Nimechanuka Organization, AMIU Ubuntu Club hosted an eventful day with youth dialogue, reproductive health service provision, and advocacy capacity building. Financial Education Mentorship: AMIU and Standard Chartered Bank enabled learners with financial planning knowledge, investing, and setting goals for professional achievement. Achievements & Milestones Health Innovation Leadership: Prof. Dancan Irungu’s innovative leadership in the Health Entrepreneurship Academy motivates students to integrate public health education with entrepreneurship for application. Scholarship Fund Appeal: AMIU continues advocating for its Scholarship Fund to support promising but disadvantaged students across Africa, opening doors to equitable education and better health outcomes. Closing Remarks As AMIU deepens alliances and further empowers the students, we look forward to a fruitful year-end—founded on innovation, collaboration, and a reformation of health education. Amref International University : Producing fit-for-purpose leaders for Africa’s Primary Health Care. © 2025 AMIU | All Rights Reserved
AMIU hosts the First-ever Mock debate of the Kenya Model United Nations
Amref International University was honored to host the first-ever mock debate of the Kenya Model United Nations (KMUN), a milestone in young people’s engagement and leadership development. The event brought together students from more than 30 universities in Kenya, marking the beginning of a year of spirited debates, diplomacy, and meaningful discussion of global issues. Under the theme “Nuclear Energy for a Sustainable Future,” the delegates were tasked with deliberating the complex role of nuclear energy in addressing climate change, driving sustainable development, and ensuring equitable access to power. Their discussions went beyond the technical aspects to examine issues of safety, regulation, and equity. These are challenges that resonate not only nationally but also at the international level, as echoed by the United Nations. For students, this was more than a rehearsal room. It was a meeting of minds where critical negotiation, diplomacy, and public speaking skills were sharpened, abilities needed not only in debate halls but also in developing solutions to real-world problems. At AMIU, hosting this debate was an affirmation of our dedication to developing leaders who are able to bridge local contexts with international imperatives. By creating forums for dialogue and critical discussion, the university makes sure that young adults are prepared not only to participate in the discussion but also to lead it. Through KMUN, the future leaders become empowered and confident to meaningfully tackle the issues of our time. AMIU is privileged to lead in this experience, championing the voices of students who will build a world society that is inclusive and sustainable. For anyone interested in joining the KMUN AMIU Club, the entry shall be at the beginning of every semester for all to register and be part of this great movement.
Amref International University Monthly Bulletin – August 2025
Introduction In this edition, we reflect on a month of deep partnerships, international collaborations, and the inspiring success of AfyaFest 2025. From thought leadership and innovation showcases to moments of grief and solidarity, August reminded us of the resilience and vision shaping the future of African health. Featured News Honouring Our Fallen Heroes – AMIU and Amref family mourned the tragic AMREF Flying Doctors aircraft crash, leading to a seven-day social media blackout in solidarity with the fallen colleagues and community members. AfyaFest 2025 – From August 26–28, AMIU co-hosted Africa’s largest youth-led health innovation festival with Amref Health Africa under the Africa Health Collaborative in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation. The event highlighted climate and health resilience, maternal health innovations, NCDs, mental health, and investor readiness for African startups. Partnerships and Collaborations Canadian Exchange – Dr. Marc-David Munk (Canada) visited AMIU, engaging students and faculty in an insightful dialogue on health systems. UNC Wilmington & KMDC – Dr. Alice Lakati, Director of Research and Community Extension at AMIU, and Mr. Patrick Okwarah hosted a delegation from the University of North Carolina led by Dr. Michelle Cathorall and Dr. Shaila Strayhorn-Carter, alongside Ms. Venna Odhiambo, a representative from the Kenya Minnesota Development Centre (KMDC). The meeting explored exciting opportunities for collaborative research and student/faculty exchange programmes. Discussions with Dr. Michelle Cathorall, Dr. Shaila Strayhorn-Carter, and Ms. Venna Odhiambo opened doors for a 2026 Study Abroad Program focused on public health in Kenya. University of Hargeisa (Somaliland) – AMIU leadership led by Professor Tammary Rotich met with senior officials; Mr. Abdiqathar Rashid, Head of Partnerships and International Collaborations, and Dr. Jonah Kiragu ,Deputy Director, Research and Grants from the University of Hargeisa to explore collaborative research, joint programs, and knowledge exchange initiatives. Community & Regional Impact AfyaFest 2025 Highlights Day 1: Universities urged to nurture adaptable, globally connected graduates; mental health stigma addressed head-on. Day 2: Youth-led maternal health innovations across Africa and insights from regional networks for scaling startups. Day 3: Final pitching sessions revealed Africa’s young innovators building the future of primary healthcare through bold solutions. Achievements & Milestones AfyaFest 2025 cemented AMIU’s position as a continental hub for health innovation and education, fostering global connections and showcasing the power of youth-led solutions. Closing Remarks 📌 Save the Date: The 2nd Primary Health Care Congress (PHC Congress 2026) will be held on March 4–6, 2026 at AMIU’s Northlands Campus. Together with our partners, we will redefine and reinforce the goals of PHC in advancing UHC for all. Amref International University – Developing fit-for-purpose leaders for Africa’s primary health care. © 2025 AMIU | All Rights Reserved