Africa-Press – Kenya. Kenyan graduates who studied in Australia have been challenged to take a leading role in deepening diplomatic, educational, and development ties between the two nations.
Speaking at an event organised by the Kenya Australia Alumni Association (KAAA) in Nairobi, Australian High Commissioner to Kenya Jenny Da Rin made the call as Australia and Kenya marked 60 years of partnership.
Da Rin underscored the alumni’s unique position in advancing the long-standing relationship.
“We have a vast ocean separating us, but there are a lot of things that unite us. There are global issues like climate change that we can address together,” she said.
Da Rin urged alumni to rethink how they can help bring Kenya and Australia “even closer,” positioning themselves as the bridge linking the two countries.
The High Commissioner emphasised that the education Kenyans receive in Australian institutions should translate into meaningful impact back home.
“When we give scholarships, we do it in anticipation that you will apply what you have learned in Kenya and as a result, empower local communities,” she noted.
According to Da Rin, approximately 9,500 Kenyans are currently enrolled in Australian universities—a figure that highlights the growing appeal of Australia as a destination for higher education and professional development.
The annual alumni ball, held to celebrate the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties, brought together dozens of Kenyan professionals who studied in Australia, ranging from engineers and scientists to teachers, researchers, entrepreneurs, and public servants.
The gathering showcased the breadth of Kenyan expertise shaped through Australian education.
Formed in 2010, KAAA unites alumni who studied in Australia under government scholarships, institutional partnerships, or self-sponsorship.
Many now serve in key sectors across Kenya, making the association a vital platform for knowledge exchange, mentorship, and bilateral cooperation.
KAAA vice chair Nancy Mokera, speaking on behalf of chair Kenneth Monjero, described the alumni body as “a living bridge between two nations.”
“Tonight, as we celebrate six decades of Australia–Kenya partnership, we acknowledge and appreciate the leaders who have guided KAAA since inception. Their dedication has allowed us to stand strong in this historic moment,” she said.
Mokera noted that the 60-year journey has been marked by friendship, collaboration and a shared commitment to development, innovation and education. She expressed optimism that the partnership will continue to expand and deepen in the years ahead.
“As we honour the past, celebrate the present, and look to the future, may our partnership continue to grow, may our alumni continue to lead, and may our impact continue to shape communities across Kenya and beyond,” she added.
“We are not just celebrating an anniversary; we are celebrating a relationship that has shaped careers, strengthened institutions, empowered communities, and created a vibrant network of alumni who continue to impact Kenya and the world in meaningful ways.”
The event also featured presentations from several organisations, including the Women in Leadership Network (WILN), INUKA – Youth & Girls’ Empowerment, Fun and Education Global Network (FEGNe), and the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research—highlighting ongoing collaborations in leadership, empowerment and agricultural innovation.
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