Kenya University Students Organization (KUSO) President Antony Manyara has been awarded an honorary doctorate (PhD honoris causa) in Leadership and Youth Advocacy by the Heim Weldios University of Management and Technology in Abuja, Nigeria. This prestigious recognition comes as a result of Manyara’s impactful work in advocating for youth empowerment and better governance in Kenya.
Manyara, visibly elated by the honor, took the opportunity to express his deep gratitude to the university. He acknowledged that the award symbolizes the potential of the youth in shaping the future of Kenya. “I take this opportunity to thank Welders University for this honorary doctorate degree. It is an illustration that when youth are given the chance, they can lead the nation to great heights,” he said in his statement.
The KUSO president’s leadership is marked by a strong commitment to advancing the development agenda of the youth and ensuring that they play an active role in the country’s growth. He sees the recognition as a call to continue empowering young people to participate fully in governance and the transformation of society. Manyara’s leadership goes beyond mere advocacy, as he has consistently championed meaningful initiatives aimed at curbing moral decay in Kenya. He has also been at the forefront of campaigns pushing for a more inclusive and progressive future for the nation’s youth.
In his statement, Manyara emphasized the need to embrace youth leadership in addressing the challenges facing the Kenyan economy. “This honor represents a chance to reflect on how we, as youth, can enhance the economy of our nation,” he said. His dedication to youth causes is not just a personal commitment but also a broader movement to involve young people in nation-building.
KUSO, the organization Manyara leads, congratulated him on the well-deserved recognition. The association described him as a “shining example” of the vast potential that Kenya’s youth possess. They noted that his leadership journey continues to inspire many young people, underscoring his unwavering dedication to advocating for a better future. “Your contributions will leave a lasting legacy. Well done on this well-deserved recognition,” KUSO said in a statement.
The honor bestowed upon Manyara is a testament to the significant impact he has made on various fronts, from governance reforms to social justice. One of his notable recent actions was his petition to the Kenyan Parliament, urging President William Ruto to declare femicide and gender-based violence (GBV) a national disaster. Manyara’s petition, filed in November 2024, followed a worrying surge in femicide and GBV cases in the country. In his petition, he emphasized the need for urgent action to address this crisis, calling on the National Assembly to pressure the President to officially recognize the severity of the issue.
“The National Assembly should swiftly address the rising cases of femicide and gender-based violence in Kenya. The declaration of a national disaster would signal the gravity of the crisis and lead to the mobilization of resources to tackle the issue,” Manyara argued in his petition. His efforts highlight the direct connection between his leadership and his advocacy for the safety and well-being of Kenyan citizens, particularly women and girls.
Manyara’s advocacy for a better Kenya extends beyond his petitions and public campaigns. He is a vocal proponent of the need for youth to play an active role in combating societal ills and in shaping a nation built on fairness, justice, and inclusivity. His call for action on the issue of gender violence is a direct response to growing concerns among Kenyans about the increasing vulnerability of women and children to violence.
Manyara’s journey to this honorary doctorate is a testament to his determination, dedication, and unwavering commitment to advocating for the youth and better governance. His leadership is a beacon of hope for the youth of Kenya, showing that with proper recognition, support, and opportunities, they have the potential to lead and transform their communities.
In conclusion, Antony Manyara’s honorary doctorate serves as a powerful reminder of the immense potential young leaders hold in shaping the future of Kenya. His tireless efforts in youth advocacy, leadership, and social justice inspire many to continue the fight for a better, more inclusive society. As KUSO President, Manyara remains a key figure in the ongoing efforts to empower Kenyan youth and create a nation where everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed.
