Chemeron Campus of Egerton University is set for a major facelift, with plans underway to grow its unique snake park into a world-class facility. Speaking during the campus graduation ceremony on Friday, where 92 learners were awarded certificates in various courses, Vice Chancellor Prof. Isaac Kibwage and Baringo South MP Charles Kamuren pledged to deepen collaborations with the local community to realize this vision.
After the ceremony, the two leaders toured the campus, discussing the expansion plans. Prof. Kibwage noted that the University's council members had shown great commitment by donating their sitting allowances to construct a permanent structure for relocating the snake park.
“It has been a deliberate dedication of our council members. We want this park to attract tourists while also helping to find lasting solutions to snakebite challenges faced by locals," said Prof. Kibwage.
MP Kamuren revealed plans to escalate the discussion to the national level, proposing that Chemeron could become a model center for breeding snakes and extracting venom for research and commercial purposes.
“Snake venom fetches attractive prices internationally. We can also establish a laboratory to develop vaccines and medicines for snakebite treatment, benefiting not just the region but the entire country," Hon. Kamuren said.
The two leaders agreed to prioritize completion of the ongoing construction at the campus. The MP committed to allocating resources and rallying other local leaders to support the campus's growth, envisioning Chemeron evolving into a full-fledged university.
Prof. Kibwage welcomed the proposal, reaffirming the University’s commitment to community-driven progress and cautioning against individuals seeking to exploit university land for personal gain.
The event was graced by area MCAs, chiefs, Baringo County education officials, the OCPD, and the Administration Police Commander. The Vice Chancellor was joined by Deputy Vice Chancellors Prof. Bernard Aduda (Academics, Research and Extension) and Prof. Richard Mulwa (Administration, Finance and Planning), emphasizing the high regard in which the University holds the CHEMERON Campus.
Other notable officials in attendance included;Director of Research Prof. George Owuor, Ag. Principal of Nakuru City Campus College Prof. George Ogendi, Director of the CHEMERON Centre Dr. Dickson Makanji, Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture Dr. John Nduko, and Associate Dean of the Faculty of Environment,Ag. Registrar Human Capital Administration Mr. Leonard Chesang’ and Resources Development Dr. Humphreys Obulinji.
Their collective support reflected a unified vision for the growth and success of the CHEMERON Campus
