The atmosphere at the Limuru Campus was one of profound gratitude and academic solemnity as the St. Paul’s University (SPU) community gathered to honor the outgoing Vice-Chancellor, Rev. Canon Prof. James Kombo, Ph.D. After a distinguished five-year tenure defined by steady growth and spiritual depth, Prof. Kombo’s "reign" reached its official conclusion in a ceremony that perfectly mirrored his leadership style: orderly, Christ-centered, and deeply rooted in community.
A Tribute to Sacrificial Leadership
The ceremony was graced by the top leadership of the University and the Church. His Grace The Most Rev. Dr. Jackson Ole Sapit, the University Council Chairman and Archbishop of the Anglican Church of Kenya, led the tributes with a powerful reflection on Prof. Kombo’s character.
The Archbishop specifically applauded Prof. Kombo for his "sacrificial leadership," noting that his time at the helm was characterized by a rare selflessness.
"Leadership in a Christian institution is not merely about management; it is a ministry," His Grace remarked. "Prof. Kombo has navigated the complexities of higher education with a compass guided by faith in God. He has sacrificed personal comfort for the sake of the SPU mission, ensuring that our students graduate not just with degrees, but with a firm moral foundation."
The Symbolic Handover: Continuity in Excellence
A pivotal moment in the ceremony occurred when the University Chancellor, Hon. Prof. Margaret Kobia, Ph.D., presided over the official handover of the Instruments of Power.
In a tradition-steeped exchange, Rev. Canon Prof. Kombo formally passed the symbols of authority—representing the university’s charter, its seal, and its academic mandate—to the incoming Ag. Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Esther Mombo.
This transition marks a new chapter for SPU. Prof. Mombo, a respected scholar and long-standing member of the SPU community, takes the mantle with the full blessing of the Council and the Chancellor.
Reflections on the "Kombo Era" (2021–2026)
As we look back on the last five years, several key pillars define the legacy Prof. Kombo leaves behind:
1. Spiritual Stewardship
Prof. Kombo ensured that the "St. Paul’s Identity" remained vibrant. He championed the integration of faith and learning, ensuring that the chapel remained the heartbeat of the campus.
2. Academic Resilience
Navigating the university through the evolving landscape of Kenyan higher education, he prioritized research, faculty development, and the maintenance of the high standards that have made SPU a preferred institution for students across Africa.
3. Institutional Stability
Through his collaborative approach with the University Council, Prof. Kombo fostered an environment of transparency and fiscal responsibility, leaving the institution on a solid footing for his successor.
The Leadership at a Glance
| Office | Dignitary |
| Chancellor | Hon. Prof. Margaret Kobia, Ph.D. |
| Council Chairman | His Grace The Most Rev. Dr. Jackson Ole Sapit |
| Outgoing Vice-Chancellor | Rev. Canon Prof. James Kombo, Ph.D. |
| Acting Vice-Chancellor | Prof. Esther Mombo |
A Fond Farewell from the SPU Family
From the faculty who served under him to the students who were inspired by his lectures and the alumni who watched the university thrive, the message remains the same: Thank you.
Prof. Kombo’s departure is bittersweet, but his footprint on the Limuru hills and beyond is indelible. As he moves on to his next calling, the SPU community remains united in prayer for his continued success and impact.
"Well done, good and faithful servant. You have led us with grace, and we are better because of your time with us."
