Kenya’s veterinary profession is basking in international glory after Prof. Susan W. Mbugua clinched the coveted Overall Veterinarian of the Year award at the World Veterinary Association (WVA) Global Veterinary Awards held in Washington DC on July 19, 2025.
Prof. Mbugua, a former Professor of Veterinary Surgery at the University of Nairobi, made history as the first Kenyan — and the first African — to earn the prestigious title. She also bagged the Veterinary Education Award, recognising her transformative role in shaping veterinary learning, clinical practice, and animal welfare policy across Kenya and the wider African region.
The WVA honoured Prof. Mbugua for a decades-long career marked by innovation, mentorship, and advocacy. Her pioneering work in veterinary education has set new standards for professional training, while her leadership in policy formulation has strengthened Kenya’s animal health systems.
Beyond academia, Prof. Mbugua co-founded the Kenya Small and Companion Animal Veterinary Association (KESCAVA), which has been instrumental in advancing standards for pet care and veterinary practice in the country. She also served on the Kenya Veterinary Board’s East Africa Hip Dysplasia Scheme, an initiative aimed at improving diagnostic and preventive measures for animal joint disorders.
Kenya Veterinary Association (KVA) National Chairman Dr. Kelvin Osore hailed the recognition as a national triumph.
“This recognition is not just for Prof. Mbugua but for the entire Kenyan veterinary fraternity. It affirms that our professionals can match — and even exceed — global standards,” he said.
The KVA has begun lobbying for official national honours for Prof. Mbugua, citing her win as a benchmark achievement and a chance to position Kenya as a hub for veterinary excellence in Africa.
On August 4, 2025, a celebratory event in Nairobi brought together veterinary experts, academics, policymakers, and students. The gathering not only honoured Prof. Mbugua’s achievement but also sparked renewed calls for increased government investment in animal health, education, and research.
Industry leaders say the award has placed Kenya firmly on the global veterinary map, with potential ripple effects in attracting partnerships, funding, and international collaborations.
As Prof. Mbugua stood flanked by WVA President Dr. John de Jong and a representative from Ceva Santé Animale — the award sponsors — the moment symbolised both personal triumph and the rising profile of Kenya’s veterinary sector.
“This award is a testament to the fact that dedication, innovation, and collaboration can elevate veterinary medicine anywhere in the world,” Prof. Mbugua said. “I hope it inspires the next generation of Kenyan veterinarians to aim for nothing less than excellence.”
With this landmark win, Kenya has not only celebrated one of its own but also sent a clear message to the world: the country’s veterinary profession is ready to lead on the global stage.
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