The Association of African Universities (AAU) and the entire African higher education community are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Professor Christine Dranzoa, the Vice-Chancellor of the Muni University, which occurred on June 28, 2022.

As the first female Professor and Vice-Chancellor of the Muni University, she was a trailblazer and role model to many, especially young girls who aspire to climb the ladder and occupy top leadership roles in African Higher Education Institutions.  Prof. Dranzoa was a woman of several talents and capabilities and had a rich experience serving as a wildlife ecologist, conservationist, educationalist, facilitator and an administrator.

Due to her strong track record as a zealous advocate for the girl child’s education, she was nicknamed “the defender of the girl child”. She was also awarded a medal of excellence in education by the Forum for African Women Educationists-Uganda chapter in 1999, for mentoring the girl child, and went on to become the honorary secretary for the pan-African body. In 2002, the Dierenpark Amersfoort of the Netherlands awarded her the Wankele Aarde (Unbalanced Earth Trophy) for her contribution to wildlife conservation. She served as the Executive Committee chairperson of Inter University Council of East Africa (IUCEA), at the time of her death.

On behalf of the Governing Board of the AAU, the 400 plus member universities of the Association, Staff of the AAU and all the stakeholders of the African Higher Education community, the Association of African Universities extends its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, and commiserates with the Uganda Ministry of Education, the Muni University community, as well as the entire citizenry of Uganda, and Africa on this sad event.

We will fondly remember Prof. Dranzoa for her immense contribution to wildlife, the girl child education and academic leadership in Africa. Indeed, Africa has lost a great mentor, scholar, and leader.

May Her Dear Soul Rest in Perfect Peace!