New Gate House and Hope Centre Parking Commissioned

Highlights from the dedication of the new Gate House and the official opening of the Hope Centre Parking at Daystar University's Athi River Main Campus.

By Victoria Mumbi

[Athi River, July 16, 2026] Daystar University officially commissioned its new Gate and Gatehouse at Main Campus Athi River for public use.

The ceremony also saw the commissioning of the Hope Centre Parking, whose cabro  paving has also been completed. Contractor- OneCraft Construction Ltd. and Consultant: Skair Architects Ltd were also present to hand over the two projects to the University Management.

The ceremony was led by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Laban Peter Ayiro, and officiated by ACK Bishop emeritus and Daystar Company member, Rt. Rev. Joseph Kanuku. Other invited guests included Chair emeritus of the Daystar Company Board, Rev. Dr. Matthews Mwalw'a, Dr. Mutheu Talitwala and family , DVC FAP, Prof. Muturi Wachira and DVC ARSA, Prof. Samuel Muriithi, members of Management Board and Senate, the Chaplaincy, staff, DUSA and DCF leadership, students  among others.

In his address, the Vice Chancellor described the occasion as a celebration of God's faithfulness rather than merely the unveiling of a physical structure."Today, we dedicate a testimony of God's goodness, not simply steel and stones," he said.

Prof. Ayiro observed that gates are far more than points of entry because they symbolize identity, purpose, protection and new beginnings. He described the new gate as a representation of the University's vision and Christian heritage.

He prayed that everyone entering the University through the gate would experience God's presence and leave strengthened to make a meaningful impact in society.

“Every graduate who exits through this gate should carry the light of Christ to the nations,” he said.

The Vice Chancellor further emphasized that the gate and gatehouse  represents access not only to higher education but also to wisdom, character and purpose. He expressed gratitude to God  for His continued favour upon the University, highlighting the remarkable growth in student enrolment, expansion of infrastructure, landscaping initiatives and the ongoing construction of the University Chapel.

The Vice Chancellor reminded the University community that every achievement should point back to God. He noted that "competence without character is dangerous, and knowledge without wisdom is incomplete," further acknowledging Daystar University's contribution to the transformation and development of the Lukenya community around the Main Campus Athi River. He added that the new gate and gatehouse should project excellence, inspire confidence, uphold the University's dignity and extend genuine hospitality to every visitor.

In his remarks, the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Finance, Administration and Planning (DVC-FAP), Prof. Muturi Wachira, reflected on Proverbs 16:3, reminding the congregation that while people make plans, it is the Lord who establishes them.

He expressed the desire that God would continue to guide and prosper the University's vision and the many development projects that are underway. While celebrating the completion of the gate and gatehouse, Prof. Wachira observed that Daystar's growth extends beyond physical infrastructure, citing the ongoing Artificial Intelligence Conference at the Nairobi Campus as evidence of the University's continued academic advancement and innovation.

Speaking during  the ceremony, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic, Research and Student Affairs (DVC-ARSA,) Prof. Samuel Muriithi described the new gate as the culmination of the University's vision to complete the perimeter wall around the Main Campus Athi River.

"Let us glorify God together because this project is the work of the Lord and not of man," he remarked.

Chairman emeritus of the Daystar Company Board, Rev. Dr. Matthews Mwalw'a, congratulated the Vice Chancellor for his visionary leadership and prayed for God's wisdom and strength as he continues to steer the University.

Reflecting on the history of the Main Campus, Rev. Dr. Mwalw’a recalled its humble beginnings when the area was largely undeveloped, and praised God for the remarkable transformation that has taken place over the years.

"Daystar University is founded on prayer," he affirmed, inviting members of the university to strengthen this foundation.

Bishop emeritus and Company Member Rt. Rev. Joseph Kanuku commended the late pioneer Vice Chancellor, Prof. Stephen Talitwala, describing him as a visionary leader whose unwavering faith laid a strong foundation for the University.

He encouraged the university community to remain grounded in prayer and the word of God, while urging Prof. Ayiro to press on in leadership despite any inevitable challenges.

“Leaders will always face opposition because there can be no progress without resistance," he observed.

Rt. Rev. Kanuku described the gate and gatehouse as a symbol of divine access, spiritual authority, security and God's continued favour upon the institution.

The project consultant, Architect Godfrey Mwiti of Skair Architects, highlighted that the Daystar main gate and gatehouse were designed as an iconic architectural landmark that reflects the University’s identity, excellence, presence and commitment to security. He observed that as the primary gateway to the university, it represents a welcoming and secure impression for students, staff and visitors.

The ceremony also featured the official opening of the Hope Centre parking, further enhancing accessibility and convenience within the campus while supporting the University's expanding infrastructure.

"I officially dedicate this gate and gatehouse as the main entrance to Daystar University in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit," declared Rt. Rev. Kanuku.