Wiper Party leader and former Vice President Dr. Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka Speaking during the Groundbreaking Ceremony of the Pan-African Institute at Lukenya University on November 9, 2025. Photo Courtesy. 
By Andrew Mbuva and Ryan Mumo
Wiper Party leader and former Vice President Dr. Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka has called for the recognition of a new wave of Pan-African awakening led by Africa’s youth, describing it as a defining moment for the continent’s future.
Speaking during the Groundbreaking Ceremony of the Pan-African Institute at Lukenya University, Kalonzo urged African leaders to listen to the voices of the youth, rather than suppress them, noting that the current generation’s peaceful protests against corruption, impunity, and poor governance reflect a renewed spirit of Pan-Africanism.
“These peaceful demonstrations are not acts of recklessness; they are acts of hope and determination,” Kalonzo said. “African leaders must stop treating protesters as criminals and terrorists, unlawfully detaining them, or denying them their fundamental rights. Leaders must listen to their people, not silence them.”
He likened the current Gen Z-led protests across Africa to the liberation struggles that freed the continent from colonialism, emphasizing that today’s youth are fighting for dignity, transparency, and justice.
Kalonzo also paid an emotional tribute to the late Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga, describing him as one of Africa’s greatest Pan-Africanists whose legacy must endure.
“Raila’s Pan-Africanism was never merely ideological; it was a way of life. He championed African unity, economic cooperation, and leadership that prioritised people. Even in death, his spirit continues to inspire,” he said.
Reflecting on the establishment of the Pan-African Institute, Kalonzo hailed the founders of Lukenya University, Justice (Rtd.) Kasanga Mulwa and Mrs. Martha Mulwa, for their vision and resilience in building Kenya’s first non-profit university dedicated to African empowerment through education and innovation.
He said the new institute should serve as a “beacon of African transformation”, inspiring research, dialogue, and leadership focused on unity, innovation, and sustainable development.
“As we break ground for the Pan-African Institute today, let this moment remind us that Africa’s future is in our hands, and we are still painting our canvas,” he stated. “Let this institute be a place where ideas ignite, talents are nurtured, and Pan-African ideals are brought to life.”
Kalonzo concluded with a rallying call for unity and self-determination:
“The journey is long, but the vision is clear — an Africa united, strong, and free. Viva Africa!”
The ceremony, held at Lukenya University in Makueni County, was attended by distinguished guests including former Botswana President Lt. Gen. Dr. Seretse Khama Ian Khama, former Liberian Vice President Jewel Cianeh Taylor, Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Junior, and Professor P.L.O. Lumumba, who chairs the new Pan-African Institute.
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