Staff Reporter
PRESIDENT Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah and the University of Namibia (UNAM) have expressed deep sorrow following the passing of renowned academic and botanist Professor Keto Elitabu Mshigeni, describing him as a foundational figure in the establishment and development of UNAM.
Professor Mshigeni passed away on Sunday, 22 March 2026, at the age of 82 in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
In her message of condolences, President Nandi-Ndaitwah said Professor Mshigeni made immense contributions to Namibia’s higher education sector, particularly during the formative years of UNAM. She noted that he served as a Research Consultant in the Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Sciences from 1991 to 1995, before taking on senior leadership roles within the institution.
He later served as Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Administration and Finance from 1995 to 1998, where he helped establish key governance and administrative systems, and subsequently as the founding Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Research from 1998 to 2001, playing a central role in shaping the university’s academic and research direction.
UNAM echoed these sentiments, describing Professor Mshigeni as a distinguished academic and visionary leader whose contributions were instrumental in building a resilient and credible national university. The institution highlighted his pivotal role in shaping UNAM’s academic architecture, institutional systems, and research trajectory.
Beyond his leadership roles, Professor Mshigeni was an accomplished scientist whose work in marine botany, seaweed aquaculture, and environmental sustainability significantly contributed to Namibia’s research landscape. His involvement in initiatives such as the United Nations University’s Zero Emissions Research Initiative (ZERI) saw the introduction of innovative projects in seaweed and mushroom cultivation, promoting sustainable livelihoods and biodiversity.
His lasting impact at UNAM is recognised through the Keto E. Mshigeni Mariculture Research Building at the Sam Nujoma Campus, named in his honour.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah extended condolences on behalf of the government and the Namibian people to Professor Mshigeni’s family, while UNAM also conveyed its sympathies to his relatives, colleagues, and the international academic community.
Professor Mshigeni is remembered as a pioneering scholar and dedicated servant of higher education whose legacy will continue to shape Namibia’s academic and research environment.
Photos: Namibian Presidency/UNAM
