Daystar University in Kenya has rescinded a controversial deal with the Israeli Embassy to plant over 5,000 indigenous trees on its main campus in Athi River. The decision came amid significant public backlash and calls from Kenyans on social media who questioned the wisdom of the partnership in light of Israel’s ongoing conflict with Palestine, particularly the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The Vice Chancellor of Daystar University, Prof. Laban Ayiro, made the announcement in a statement on Wednesday, emphasizing the institution’s commitment to neutrality and the sanctity of life.
Public Backlash and Reconsideration
The decision to cancel the agreement was driven by widespread disapproval from a section of the Kenyan public who took to social media to express concerns about the timing and implications of the deal. The critics argued that aligning with Israel at this juncture could be seen as tacit support for the ongoing Gaza conflict, where thousands of Palestinian lives have been lost due to the violence. The Gaza conflict, which has led to the death of approximately 45,000 Palestinians, has sparked significant global debate about humanitarianism and international relations, making any foreign engagement contentious in Kenya.
Daystar University’s leadership faced a difficult choice: to either proceed with the agreement and risk alienating its community or to cancel it and uphold its stated values of neutrality and peace. Prof. Ayiro highlighted that the institution’s decision to back out was rooted in a desire to remain impartial, stressing that Daystar University does not support the ongoing humanitarian conflict in the Middle East. “We are committed to the sanctity of all life,” Ayiro was quoted, underscoring the university’s stance on advocating for peaceful coexistence among all people.
The Zion Forest Project and its Ambitions
The tree planting initiative, known as the Zion Forest, was originally conceived as a collaborative effort between Daystar University, the Israeli Embassy, and various partners including the office of Kenya’s First Lady Rachel Ruto. The project aimed to plant 5,000 indigenous trees on the university’s campus, creating a dynamic green space to enhance the learning environment for students and serve as a symbol of environmental cooperation between Kenya and Israel. Yahel Margovsky-Lotem, spouse of Israeli Ambassador Michael Lotem, was also instrumental in pushing for the project, which she hoped would foster stronger ties between Nairobi and Jerusalem.
In its announcement on X (formerly Twitter), the Israeli Embassy described the Zion Forest project as a bridge between cultures and an opportunity for shared environmental stewardship. The initiative was meant to provide a “green oasis” that would not only beautify the university campus but also support the academic and social well-being of Daystar students. The Israeli Embassy had positioned the project as a way to bolster diplomatic ties through a shared commitment to environmental sustainability and education.
Repercussions and Moving Forward
The cancellation of the agreement reflects the growing sensitivity around diplomatic engagements in Kenya, especially when they are perceived to be connected to geopolitical conflicts. The backlash highlights the complex relationship between international diplomacy, public perception, and domestic politics. Daystar University’s move underscores the importance of considering public sentiment in such partnerships and the need for institutions to maintain a balance between global engagement and local sensibilities.
In his statement, Prof. Ayiro emphasized that Daystar University remains committed to its core values of peace, neutrality, and sustainability. The university is now focusing on alternative environmental initiatives that will align more closely with its principles and the expectations of its community. While the Zion Forest project may no longer proceed, Daystar University is exploring new ways to engage with Israel and other international partners without compromising its values or the trust of its student body and the wider Kenyan public.
The incident serves as a reminder of the delicate balance that institutions must maintain when navigating international partnerships, particularly in an increasingly polarized global landscape. As Daystar University moves forward, it will need to continue to carefully consider how its actions are perceived both locally and internationally, ensuring that its educational mission remains uncompromised by external conflicts.
