On Thursday 16th February 2006, the Honorable Professor Brian Lee Chang Leng, visited Strathmore University while on a week long working visit in Kenya. The ambassador was accompanied by the Mr. Gerald Giam, Country Officer for Africa.

Prof. John Odhiambo (second right) walks with H.E Prof. Brian Lee (third right) after signing the visitors book accompanied by Mr. Gerald Giam, Country Officer for Africa (left) and Prof. David Sperling, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Planning and Development.

The ambassador arrived at the university at 4.30 pm and spent two hours meeting with various members of the academic staff. The purpose of the visit was to seek the views of experts on the political and economic situation in Kenya and East Africa. The meeting was also to explore areas of cooperation in education.

The first briefing was on Religion, Politics, Extremism and Terrorism in the Greater Horn of Africa. Prof David Sperling, DVC Planning and Development gave a brief overview of Islam at the coast of Kenya and went on to address other issues related to Islam. Present during this session was Prof. Terry Ryan, Chairman University Council, and Prof. John Odhiambo, the Vice Chancellor.

The second session was on Economic Dynamics & Private Investment in Kenya and the East Africa region. In this session the ambassador wanted to find out the potential of the Kenyan and East African market and what would attract Singaporean investors. The ambassador mentioned that he wanted to explore the market situation before advising investors from Singapore to come and start businesses in the region. Prof. Ryan explained various aspects of the Kenyan economy. Several members of the University staff were also present at this session.  

Finally, possible ways of promoting Kenya-Singapore Cooperation were discussed. The Ambassador and the Vice Chancellor exchanged gifts before he departed around 6.30 p.m.