On Tuesday 30th June 2026, The Department of Literature was delighted to welcome back veteran filmmaker, educator, and social justice activist Ron Mulvihill, who paid a courtesy visit to the department and met with the Chairperson, Professor Miriam Musonye.
During the visit, Ron, reflected on his time as a student in the department nearly five decades ago, describing the experience as one that profoundly shaped both his intellectual development and his life’s work.
“This morning, I had the pleasure to visit the African Literature Department and meet with Professor Miriam Musonye,” he remarked. “Forty-eight years ago, I was a student in your department, which changed my life for the better and opened me up to truths never taught to me in the USA.”
He explained that his studies in African Literature, African History, and African Theatre fundamentally transformed his worldview and inspired his lifelong commitment to social justice.
“The African Literature, African History, and African Theatre taught in the department helped to decolonize my mind and motivated me to use film to counter the propaganda machine of the USA and empire,” he said.
Reflecting on his return to the department, he expressed deep appreciation for the enduring influence of his education at the University of Nairobi.
“What a joy to return to the place that was so influential in instilling in me the passion to be a lifelong social organizer and activist working for positive change and justice throughout the world.”
Professor Miriam Musonye noted that the visit serves as a powerful reminder of the lasting impact of the Department of Literature in shaping globally engaged scholars, artists, and practitioners. She observed that it is particularly gratifying to see alumni return to acknowledge the role the department has played in influencing their careers and commitment to social transformation.
Today, Ron, continues to use documentary filmmaking as a platform for education, advocacy, and social change. His works reflects the values of critical inquiry, cultural consciousness, and social justice that remain central to the department’s teaching and research.
His extensive oeuvre is available through Gris Gris Films at https://www.grisgrisfilms.net.
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