Kibabii University mourns Deputy Vice Chancellor Prof. Donald Siamba

Kibabii University has announced the death of Prof. Donald Namasaka Siamba, the institution’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor in charge of Administration, Finance and Development, sending shockwaves across the academic community in Bungoma County and beyond.

In a statement released on Saturday, January 24, the university confirmed that Prof. Siamba passed away on January 24, 2026, at Hopkins Hospital in Bungoma, where he had been receiving treatment. The announcement was made by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Isaac Ipara Odeo, who described the late administrator as a dedicated scholar and an invaluable pillar of the institution’s leadership.

“Prof. Siamba served Kibabii University with distinction and commitment until his demise,” the statement read, noting that he played a key role in steering the university’s administrative, financial and development agenda during his tenure.

Colleagues and members of the university community described Prof. Siamba as a seasoned academic and administrator whose contribution to higher education extended beyond Kibabii University. His leadership was widely credited with strengthening institutional systems, enhancing financial management, and supporting infrastructure growth at the young public university.

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The news of his passing triggered an outpouring of condolences from education stakeholders, political leaders, staff, students and alumni, many of whom took to social media to pay tribute to a man they said was approachable, firm in principle, and deeply committed to public service.

Kibabii University called upon its staff, students and the general public to keep the bereaved family in their prayers during what it termed a “difficult time,” adding that further details regarding funeral and burial arrangements would be communicated in due course.

“May the Almighty God grant him eternal rest,” the statement concluded.

Prof. Siamba’s death comes as a major loss to the higher education sector in the region, where he was regarded as a strong advocate for academic excellence, accountability and institutional growth. His passing leaves a leadership and mentorship gap that many say will be difficult to fill.

As the university flies flags at half-mast, Kibabii University joins the nation in mourning a scholar, administrator and servant of education whose legacy will remain etched in the institution’s history.

By Godfrey Wamalwa