Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) has hailed its council chairman, James Micah Onsando, after he was named a national hero for his contribution to agricultural research.
Onsando received the national honour from President William Ruto during the 2026 Mashujaa Day celebrations under the category of Scholarship, Professionalism and Research.
His work has focused on agricultural research and plant pathology, particularly diseases affecting Kenya’s tea industry, a major source of foreign exchange and livelihoods for smallholder farmers.
Onsando’s research on Armillaria root rot, a disease that attacks tea plant roots, has contributed to efforts to understand and manage the disease, which threatens tea production.
The tea sector supports more than 600,000 smallholder farmers and contributes significantly to the national economy.
Reacting to the recognition, Onsando said the award reflected the contribution of researchers, farmers and mentors who had supported his work.
“To be named a national hero is both a profound honour and a humbling validation of a lifelong journey dedicated to agricultural science and institutional leadership,” he said.
He said agricultural research remained critical to the country’s economic growth and food security, calling for continued investment in scientific innovation.
“Agriculture remains the backbone of our nation’s prosperity and food security,” Onsando said.
He added that researchers and institutions needed to develop innovations that protect key economic sectors, support smallholder farmers and strengthen resilience.
“At JKUAT and across our wider scientific community, we must continue to harness research-driven innovations to protect our key economic pillars, empower smallholders, and build a resilient future for generations to come,” he said.
Jkuat Vice Chancellor Victoria Wambui Ngumi congratulated Onsando, saying the recognition reflected the university’s commitment to training, research and innovation.
“On behalf of the entire JKUAT community, I extend our warmest and most heartfelt congratulations to our council chairman, Dr James Micah Onsando, on this well-deserved national honour,” she said.
Ngumi said the award should inspire lecturers, researchers and students to pursue innovations that address societal challenges and contribute to economic development.
As council chairman, Onsando provides strategic oversight to the university, including efforts to strengthen links between academia, industry and national development priorities.
The honour recognises his contribution to scientific research and institutional leadership, highlighting the role of agricultural innovation in supporting the country's economy.
