Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) has joined the ranks of elite institutions in Africa after attaining the Gold Tier Good Financial Grant Practice (GFGP) certification, a globally recognized standard for excellence in financial governance. This was officially awarded on 27th March 2025 during a high-profile event held at Mövenpick Hotel & Residences in Nairobi.
The award was received by Prof. Francis Orata, Director of Research and Postgraduate Support (DRPS), who was accompanied by Dr. Umulkher Ali, Director of International Relations and Academic Linkages (DIAL). The certification comes at a time when global funders are increasingly demanding transparency, accountability, and strong financial systems from potential grantees.
In his acceptance remarks, Prof. Orata noted, “I am glad that MMUST has received this recognition, which serves as evidence to potential funders and donors of our prudent grants management.” He emphasized that the certification process was spearheaded by his Directorate, in line with the university’s strategic goals of increasing research funding and strengthening collaborations.
Prof. Orata expressed gratitude to the university’s management team for their support during the certification process. “I thank the University Management, led by our Vice Chancellor Prof. Solomon Shibairo, for the unwavering support. Special thanks also go to Prof. Peter Bukhala, the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor (Planning, Research and Innovation), and Prof. Charles Mutai, the immediate former DVC (PRI),” he added.
He further acknowledged the contribution of the DVC (Administration and Finance) Prof. John Kuria Thuo, who, alongside other key officials, ensured that all documentation required for the rigorous certification was properly prepared and submitted. He also recognized Prof. Danstone Lilechi Barasa, Director of Quality Assurance, Dr. Collins Matemba, Registrar (PRI), and Dr. Umulkher Ali for their critical roles.
The GFGP certification, developed by the African Academy of Sciences and supported by the African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC), is the first global standard for good financial grant practices. It assesses organizations on areas such as financial management, human resources, procurement, and governance.
The Nairobi event doubled as the East Africa Regional Inception Workshop for the Good Grant Practice Virtual Academy initiative, currently being implemented by APHRC. Participants from over ten African countries—including Kenya, Rwanda, Cameroon, Chad, Somalia, and Ethiopia—attended the ceremony.
Dr. Catherine Kyobutungi, Executive Director of APHRC, has previously described the GFGP framework as “a transformative step for African institutions to gain credibility with funders and expand their research portfolios.”
MMUST now joins other Kenyan institutions such as Murang’a University of Technology and Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), which also received their Gold Tier GFGP certifications in March 2025. Murang’a University’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Dickson Nyariki, called the achievement “a testament to our commitment to financial excellence.”
With this certification, MMUST is poised to become more competitive in attracting international grants and building sustainable global research partnerships. As Prof. Orata put it, “The Gold Tier is not just a title; it’s a reflection of our values and a springboard for global engagement.”
Source: MMUST News
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