On Wednesday November 30, 2022, the Vatican representative to Kenya, His Excellency Monsignor Bert van Megen, paid a courtesy visit to Daystar University Main Campus Athi River.

H.E Monsignor Bert van Megen is the Apostolic Nuncio to Kenya and South Sudan; and the Permanent Observer to UNEP and UN-Habitat. He was accompanied by Rev. Monsignor Jose Antonio Texeiras - the Nunciature's chargé d'affaires.

The Nuncio was received by the Vice-chancellor Prof. Laban P. Ayiro, the DVC Academic, Research and Student Affairs Prof. Faith Nguru, the DVC Finance Finance, Administration and Planning Prof. Muturi Wachira, Catholic faithfuls in Daystar University led by the Director of Research and Graduate Studies Sr. Prof. A.L Lando, and the HOD, Department of Language and Performing Arts Mrs. Ann Wachira.

The Vice-chancellor expressed his appreciation to the Nuncio and by extension, Pope Francis, for choosing to visit Daystar University.  He expressed his admiration to the Pope for his passion in conserving the environment and his crusade for oneness.  “Let no religious differences divide us,” urged the VC.

The Nuncio appreciated Daystar University for the warm welcome. He narrated the history of Vatican, the Papal State, as he explained his diplomatic role in Kenya.

“When you find your identity, you will have found your freedom,” was his message to the gathering of students, staff and faculty.  “We are ready to work with Daystar University to combat the climate change,” he said.

The Priest of Marymount Catholic Church at Daystar Off Campus, was also present to welcome the Nuncio. He stated that it was a blessing to have him visit Daystar University. He lauded the Vice-chancellor for the work he was doing, saying that there was great development in Daystar University.

On her part, Sr. Prof. Lando expressed gratitude to the VC for  welcoming the Nuncio. She observed that this is the first time a Clergy from the Catholic Church had visited Daystar University. She further delivered Archbishop Martin Kivuva’s appreciation to the Vice-chancellor for his attitude and ecumenical approach.

Before the Nuncio’s address, the guests were taken on a guided tour of the Athi River campus, which covered the Ayiro gardens, the upcoming School of Nursing complex, the Poultry farm, the student Gym and Agape Library.

The guests were later hosted to lunch at the Vice-chancellor’s official residence in Athi River.