The University of Lagos Africa Research and Education Network for Technology and Engineering (UNILAG-AFRETEC) Network, on Friday, May 30, 2025, hosted a special presentation session to mark the conclusion of a research project by visiting doctoral scholar, Ms. Caroline Saina Ingati Jelagat, from the University of Nairobi, Kenya.
The project, titled: Strengthening Water Access and Quality in Selected African Cities, was carried out as part of a short-term doctoral mobility programme funded by AFRETEC.
The session took place at the Conference Room of the Research Management Office, UNILAG, where members of the UNILAG-AFRETEC network gathered to celebrate Ms. Jelagat’s achievement.
Through a combination of field studies, stakeholders’ engagement, and data analysis, the research addressed the pressing challenge of water availability and access on the continent. The project explored innovative approaches to improving water availability, infrastructure and delivery systems across urban centers in Africa. It gave detailed analysis of water quality in Mukuku, Nairobi and Ilaje, Bariga, Lagos, Nigeria.
Ms. Jelagat was particularly full of gratitude to the University of Lagos community and members of UNILAG-AFRETEC network for the hospitable and research friendly ambience accorded her all through the 3-month programme. While appreciating other researchers on her team for their enthusiasm, cooperation and support, the visiting scholar described the experience which included different inter-faculty engagements, co-curricular activities and citizen engagements, as one which did not only enrich her research but also strengthened inter-institutional collaboration between Kenya and Nigeria.
Members of the AFRETEC Network, led by Professor Ismail Ibraheem who is also the Director of the University’s Office of International Relations, Partnerships and Prospects (IRPP), took turns to commend Ms. Jelagat and her research team for their dedication, and the quality of work done. They made comments and inputs to add value to the project.
The Director of Research and Enterprise, University of Nairobi, Kenyaand one of the project supervisors, Professor Thomas Mbuya, noted that the research provided practical insights that could inform future urban water policy in Africa.
The AFRETEC Doctoral Mobility Initiative aims to promote academic exchange and collaborative research across African institutions, with a view to grooming a new generation of scholars committed to addressing the continent’s most critical challenges through science and innovation.
Report: Gbenga Gbelee
Photograph: Michael Joshua
