NAIROBI, Kenya – President William Ruto has appointed Professor Isaac Muthure Macharia as the new Chancellor of Karatina University for a five-year term, effective April 11, 2025.
The announcement was made through a gazette notice dated the same day, marking a significant leadership change at the university.
In the notice, President Ruto exercised the powers granted under Section 38 (1) (a) of the Universities Act, 2012, appointing Macharia to serve in this key role.
“I, William Samoei Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces, appoint Isaac Muthure Macharia (Prof.) to be the Chancellor of Karatina University, for a period of five (5) years, with effect from 11th April, 2025,” the notice reads.
Prof. Macharia, who is currently the chairman of Equity Holdings Group, has had a distinguished career in both the medical field and corporate leadership.
He assumed the chairmanship of Equity Holdings in 2020, following the retirement of David Ansell, and has been pivotal in the bank’s transformation into a subsidiary of Equity Group Holdings.
He also previously served on the Equity Bank Kenya Board, becoming its chair in 2017.
A professor of Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) Head and Neck Surgery at the University of Nairobi, Macharia brings a wealth of academic and medical expertise to the role.
His leadership extends to various international professional organizations, and he has served as a consultant for the World Health Organization (WHO) in his specialty.
During his tenure as chairman of Equity Bank Kenya, Macharia was instrumental in steering the bank through challenging economic conditions, particularly after the Central Bank of Kenya’s interest rate caps in 2016.
His focus on innovation and the use of technology helped the bank maintain its performance and growth.
As Chancellor of Karatina University, Prof. Macharia is expected to bring the same leadership acumen and strategic vision that he demonstrated at Equity.
His appointment aligns with the university’s goal to drive growth and improve its financial stability while maintaining the highest standards in education and service.
In many Commonwealth countries, the role of Chancellor is typically ceremonial, serving as the non-resident head of the university.
In this capacity, Prof. Macharia will play a key role in guiding the university’s strategic direction, contributing to the enhancement of its educational and financial standing.
