About KESSA:

Our Origin and Mission:

Founded in 2008, the Kenya Scholars and Studies Association (KESSA) is an esteemed scholarly association with a global membership base. As a U.S. Federal tax-exempt nonprofit organization, registered in the State of Ohio, KESSA represents a thriving community of intellectuals, researchers, and educators dedicated to advancing knowledge and research on Kenya and the broader African continent.

Our Founding Vision:

KESSA was established by visionary scholars Professors Kefa Otiso, Maurice Amutabi, C. Gichana Manyara, and Francis Koti. Their collective dream was to create a platform that champions the intellectual and professional interests of Kenyan Diaspora scholars and their colleagues worldwide. Their foresight has nurtured a dynamic community that values academic excellence, cultural understanding, and professional development.

Our Multifaceted Objectives:

  • Promoting Scholarship: We are committed to fostering scholarly, scientific, and research work in and about Kenya across various disciplines.
  • Facilitating Cooperation: KESSA serves as a nexus for exchanging ideas and fostering meaningful dialogue among individuals and groups engaged in research related to Kenya.
  • Disseminating Knowledge: We prioritize the dissemination of information, publications, and scholarly works on Kenya, enriching the global academic landscape.
  • Organizing Conferences: Our annual conferences and symposia offer platforms for scholarly discussions and network-building among academics and professionals.
  • Mentoring and Networking: We dedicate ourselves to mentoring Kenyan diaspora students and aspiring scholars, providing them with invaluable resources and connections for their academic and professional growth.

KESSA Today: A Hub of Intellectual Growth:

Over the years, KESSA has become a pivotal institution in the academic world, especially noted for our annual conferences. These gatherings are not just academic forums; they are melting pots of ideas, cultures, and innovations. Our conferences have graced various cities, including Bowling Green, Florence, and Atlanta, each leaving an indelible mark of knowledge and collaboration.

KESSA Today: A Hub of Intellectual Growth:

  • Inaugural Conference in 2008: A foundational step in our journey.
  • Kenya @50 Celebrations in 2013: A significant event aligning with Kenya’s 50th year of independence.
  • 10th Anniversary in 2017: A decade of excellence in scholarship and research.

Distinguished Speakers and Participants:

KESSA’s events have been graced by eminent personalities like Dr. Jendayi Frazer, former U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, and notable Kenyan ambassadors to the United States. Each conference serves as a testament to our commitment to excellence and diversity in academic discourse.

Our Future:

Looking ahead, KESSA remains dedicated to nurturing and expanding our community of scholars. We continue to foster partnerships, encourage innovative research, and provide platforms for intellectual exchange, all aimed at contributing to Kenya’s socio-economic development and the enrichment of the global academic community.

Join Us:

We invite you to be a part of our journey, whether as a member, a participant in our conferences, or a contributor to our noble cause. Together, let’s shape a future enriched by knowledge, understanding, and shared scholarly endeavors.