By Agnes Mwangi
Egerton University mourns the passing of Professor Catherine Wawasi Kitetu, a respected scholar and devoted mentor. Her life was marked by service to education, research and the public good.
For more than three decades, Prof. Kitetu served the University with distinction. She taught with care. She guided young scholars. She helped shape the growth of higher education in Kenya and beyond. Her influence remains in the many lives she touched.
Prof. Kitetu began her academic journey at the University of Nairobi. She later earned a Master’s degree from the University of East Anglia in the United Kingdom. She went on to complete her PhD at Lancaster University, where she also taught in the School of Linguistics and Modern English Language. She joined Egerton University in 1991 as an Assistant Lecturer of Kiswahili. Over the years, she rose through the academic ranks to become an Associate Professor in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. She remained committed to teaching, research and academic leadership throughout her career.Her research focused on language, culture, gender and education. She also studied multilingualism, discourse and communication in society. She published more than 40 papers in refereed journals and presented her work at conferences around the world. Her scholarship added value to debates on language and social development.Prof. Kitetu was also an excellent teacher. She encouraged students to think deeply and ask questions. She challenged them to work hard and believe in themselves. Many students remember her lectures for their clarity, warmth and practical insight. She inspired many to pursue postgraduate study and academic careers.
Mentorship was one of her greatest gifts. She guided young lecturers with patience. She supervised over 30 postgraduate students with care. She shared her experience freely with colleagues. She believed every scholar needed support and encouragement. Many of her former students now serve as lecturers, researchers, teachers and professionals across Kenya and beyond.
Her leadership was felt across the University. As Chairperson of the Department of Languages and Linguistics between 2000 and 2005, she strengthened academic programmes and promoted teamwork. She served on the University Senate and on several committees that supported institutional growth. She also chaired the Vice Chancellor’s Committee on Chinese language teaching and links with the Chinese Embassy. Her work was recognised nationally and internationally. She served as an external examiner for the University of Nairobi, Kenyatta University, the Islamic University in Uganda and the Institute of Rwanda. She also served on the Governing Council of CODESRIA and contributed to social science research across Africa. She was also a member of the Council of Scott Christian University.
Beyond academia, Prof. Kitetu served in public office. She was County Executive Committee Member in Nakuru County from 2013 to 2017, where she handled Education and later Public Service Management. She brought the same integrity and professionalism to public service.
Those who knew her remember her as humble, approachable and compassionate. She listened well. She spoke with wisdom. She led with quiet strength. She built trust through kindness and integrity.
Professor Catherine Wawasi Kitetu leaves behind a lasting legacy of excellence, service and care. She inspired minds, nurtured talent and strengthened institutions. Her impact will continue to live on in the students she taught, the colleagues she mentored and the communities she served.
May Professor Catherine Wawasi Kitetu rest in eternal peace and may her legacy continue to inspire generations of scholars and leaders.
