• Daystar University
• 10 Nov, 2023

by Mumbi Waweru

On the morning of October 12, 2023, a profound sense of purpose enveloped Daystar University as the groundbreaking ceremony for the David Musau Mumama Learning Complex unfolded. The day commenced with a spiritual zenith, as the University community gathered in the Amphitheater for chapel service. The University’s worship team led a moving session of worship, establishing the ambiance for a day that would be defined by both faith and the pursuit of academic excellence.

Rev. Omeno Suji, of Lukenya Community Church delivered a message that resonated with the activities of the day. His sermon, titled “Fill the Earth and Subdue It,” served as a call to action, encouraging not just individuals but also Christian businesses to invest in projects that would support the work of the ministry.

The Vice-Chancellor introduced two families present, whose roles he said, are pivotal in Daystar University’s vision and mission: The Don Smith’s family who planted the first seed that would become the Daystar University we know today and the Musau Mumama family- so far, the largest Daystar University’s single donor.

David Musau Mumama’s significant contribution to Daystar University took the spotlight as the VC recognized the family for generously donating 30 acres of land equivalent to Kes.300M to Daystar University. “David Musau Mumama stands as the largest single donor to Daystar University,” he revealed.

The VC introduced the Mumama family comprising Benjamin Musau, Ruth Mutete Musyimi, Joseph Musyimi Makato, Dennis Kyalo Musyimi, Clement Ouko, Lillian Mwende Ouko, and Ernest Njau Ndung’u and the grandchildren. He emphasized their pivotal role in shaping the University’s future and praised them for graciously agreeing to release the land to Daystar University, even after the demise of their parents.

The David Musau Mumama Learning Center is poised to be a game-changer for Daystar University and will provide top- notch facilities for its students and faculty, representing a significant leap forward in the University’s infrastructure. This complex will house a 1000-seater lecture hall and four state-of-the-art 200-seater lecture halls. The School of Law will also benefit from a modern moot court, further enhancing the learning experience, alongside dedicated offices for the Dean and Faculty members.

The ambitious project comes with an estimated budget of 200 million Kenyan Shillings, which will be financed by the University.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Council Chair. Prof. George Njoroge cautioned that donors are watching to see what Daystar University will contribute to Kenya by 2023?. “Research is going to be the backbone of the University,” he said. He called on the engineers to do their work well so that the Musau Mumama Complex will last for hundreds of years.

Representing the Guest speaker-the Group Managing Director and CEO of CPF Financial Services Ltd, Mr. Hosea Kili, Joseph Rono observed that it is a great honor for a family to donated 30 acres of land in a country where land appreciates by the day.

He revealed that his organization will be partnering with Daystar University in construction of accommodation units for students - to keep students on campus. “Daystar University holds a special place in Kenya and internationally,” he said.

As the ceremony transitioned to the groundbreaking site, the vibrant melodies of the University choir filled the air, setting the stage for a momentous occasion. Guests, faculty, staff and students donned reflectors and construction helmets, symbolizing their readiness to embark on this transformative journey. The tractors and constructors were poised and ready, standing as a testament to the collaborative efforts that would bring this vision to life.

Guided by the programme, Bishop Emeritus, Rt. Rev. Joseph Kanuku officially broke the ground, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the University’s history. The Bishop led in a solemn liturgy, using water, oil, and salt to sanctify the land. With words of inspiration, he spoke of growth and abundance, infusing the earth with his blessings.

As the tractors roared to life and the earth yielded to the vision, it became clear that the David Musau Mumama Learning Complex is more than just bricks and mortar; it is a symbol of the enduring spirit of excellence, growth, and transformation that Daystar University represents.

Present at the ground breaking ceremony was Chairman of Daystar university Council Prof. George Njoroge, Bishop Emeritus Rt. Rev. Joseph Kanuku, Vice-chancellor Prof Laban Ayiro, Council Member, Mrs. Lillian Ogola, Members of Management Board, Senate, Faculty, staff and students.