From: Abdalah Hamis

The Tanzanian president Jakaya Kikwete is going to receive an honorary degree during a visit to the University of Guelph today, Friday September 20th, 2013, during a 4 p.m. ceremony in the University’s War Memorial Hall, which will be followed by a public lecture on agriculture, food production and innovation.

A press release posted on the University’s website says the event is free and open to everyone.It lists the reasons to award the President with an honorary degree as recognition for:

His contributions as a politician, negotiator and humanitarian.

Helping lead efforts in Africa to improve agriculture and ensure food safety.

Becoming the continent’s pioneer and spokesperson for the “Grow Africa” initiative, and has promoted a green revolution Agriculture First – to update farming practices and increase productivity.

Championing community development, education and literacy

Fighting corruption

Promoting women’s rights, particularly by improving access to education and health care.

“President Kikwete truly exemplifies what it means and what it takes to build a better planet,” said Kevin Hall, vice-president (research).

Hall led the honorary degree nomination and has met Pres. Kikwete several times to discuss agriculture, food security, water and health in East Africa: “President Kikwete has a steadfast commitment to helping his people, country and continent. He is a model and inspiration for our University as we strive to improve life in Canada and beyond,” Hall said.

While in Guelph, he is expected to meet faculty, students and researchers working in East Africa, tour campus research facilities, and attend a dinner with local and national government leaders and dignitaries.

U of G is establishing a Guelph East Africa Institute to help solve regional problems. The institute, which will be located in Tanzania, will bring together academia, business, government and NGOs to support research and teaching in food, health, water, education, environment and community.