Juvenal SHIUNDU NEW CHAIR
Juvenal Shiundu elected new Kenya Society UK Chairman at 32nd Annual General Meeting
8 June 2022
The Kenya Society UK is pleased to announce the election of Mr Juvenal Shiundi as its new Chairman. Mr Shiundu’s appointment was confirmed at the Society’s 32nd Annual General Meeting and Annual Lunch, held at the Rembrandt Hotel on 25th May 2022. This marked the first in-person gathering since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Mr. Shiundu, who previously served as Deputy Chair for ten years (2012-2022), takes over from Mr. Patrick Orr, a founder member of the Society. Mrs. Ruth Barry was also elected as Deputy Chair, making her the first woman to hold this position in the Society's history. The AGM additionally saw the election of seven full committee members and five co-opted members.
The well-attended Annual Lunch was honoured by the presence of H.E. Manoah Esipisu, Kenya's High Commissioner to the UK, accompanied by his wife Waithiegeni Kangaru-Esipisu and several officials from the Kenya High Commission. Other distinguished guests included Lord Valentine Cecil, Mr. Toby Latta (CEO, East African Association), Ms. Camila Knox-Peebles (CEO, AMREF), and Cllr Elizabeth Kangethe – all members of the Kenya Society.
The meeting paid tribute to the exceptional service of outgoing Chairman, Mr. Patrick Orr. Mr. Orr reflected on the Society's early days and acknowledged the contributions of fellow founding members, including Ambassador Sally Kosgei, the late Girish Raval and the late Sir John Johnson. The Society also expressed its deep appreciation for the dedicated service of Honorary Secretary, Pamela Chesire.
In a special recognition, the AGM appointed Ambassadors Sally Kosgei, Ephraim Ngare and Lazarus Amayo as Honorary Vice Patrons for their unwavering support during their tenures as High Commissioners in London.
In remembrance of members and patrons lost since the last AGM, including Presidents Daniel Moi and Mwai Kibaki, Girish Raval, Wangula Khasiani, John Small and Babu Rao, the gathering observed a minute of silence. The late Charles Njonjo and Richard Leakey, though not members, were also honoured for their regular attendance at the Annual Lunch.
The Kenya Society UK welcomes Mr. Shiundu as Chairman and looks forward to a vibrant new chapter under his leadership, continuing its mission to foster connections and understanding between the UK and Kenya.