South Eastern Kenya University (SEKU) is celebrating a major academic and leadership milestone after one of its top scholars, Dr. Sarah Ndanu Mwangangi Ngesu, was appointed as the Deputy Director of CHAUKIDU (Chama cha Ukuzaji wa Kiswahili Duniani)—the premier international body for the promotion and global development of the Kiswahili language.
The appointment, announced during the CHAUKIDU General Assembly in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, places Dr Ngesu at the center of a global movement to elevate Kiswahili as a key African and international language in education, culture, diplomacy, and digital communication.
A Career Built on Excellence
Dr Ngesu brings over 15 years of teaching, research, and academic leadership to her new role. A Senior Lecturer at SEKU’s Department of Kiswahili and a pioneer in translation studies, her career has consistently reflected a commitment to advancing African languages in both traditional and emerging fields.
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She holds a PhD in Kiswahili from University of Dar es Salaam (2021), an MA in Translation, from University of Nairobi (2011), an MA in Kiswahili from University of Nairobi (2005) and a B.Ed. Arts, Kenyatta University (1990).
Her research portfolio includes extensive work in machine translation between English and Kiswahili, cultural communication, and the role of Kiswahili in health education, particularly within marginalized populations. These efforts have seen her contribute to journals, international conferences, and policy forums on African linguistics and language technology.
In December 2021 Dr Ngesu was awarded a trophy and appreciation letter by Katoo Village, Mitamisyi Location, Ngomeni Ward, Kitui County, in recognition of being the first person from Mitamisyi Location to graduate with a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.). This honor reflects both a personal milestone and a source of inspiration for the community.
Trailblazing for Inclusive Education
In addition to her academic work, Dr Ngesu has been a champion of inclusive education through her role as Coordinator of SEKU’s Disability Mainstreaming Unit (DMU). Under her leadership, SEKU has implemented transformative policies aimed at improving accessibility and learning conditions for students living with disabilities.
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“This appointment is not just a personal milestone—it’s a reflection of the potential Kenyan scholars have to shape international dialogue and preserve our cultural identity,” said Dr Ngesu following the announcement.
Leading Kiswahili into the Future
As Deputy Director of CHAUKIDU, Dr Ngesu will support the organization’s global agenda, including the development of modern Kiswahili curricula, digital resources, translation networks, and cross-continental language promotion strategies. Her experience in research, education, and inclusive policy makes her uniquely positioned to steer Kiswahili into the digital and diplomatic age.
The Vice-Chancellor of SEKU, Prof. Geoffrey Muluvi, praised the appointment:
“Dr Ngesu’s election underscores SEKU’s growing reputation as a hub of academic excellence and leadership. We are proud to support her as she takes on this important global role.”
Recognition on the Global Stage
With the African Union recognizing Kiswahili as a continental language and UNESCO supporting its global expansion, Dr Ngesu’s leadership could not be more timely. Her story mirrors the broader rise of African scholars, languages, and cultures in global institutions.
For aspiring linguists and young African professionals, Dr Sarah Ngesu stands as a shining example of what visionary scholarship and dedicated service can achieve—locally and globally.
