Thika Celebrates One of Its Own as Dr. Jane Njuguna Wins Veterinarian of the Year 2025

The Kenyan veterinary fraternity came together on Saturday evening, December 6, 2025, for one of its most anticipated events, the annual Veterinarian of the Year Award (VOYA) ceremony hosted by the Kenya Veterinary Association (KVA).

It was an evening filled with pride, reflection and celebration as professionals from across the country honoured outstanding contributions to animal health and welfare.

Among the distinguished achievers stood Dr. Jane Njuguna, a proud resident of Landless Estate, Thika, who was named the Veterinarian of the Year 2025 – Animal Welfare Category. Her recognition sparked jubilation among colleagues and admiration from the wider Thika community, who see her journey as a shining example of commitment, humility and excellence.

Dr. Njuguna’s career is built on years of unwavering dedication. From her early days in the field as a practising veterinarian to her steady ascent in public service, she has remained driven by a deep passion for safeguarding animal life, a responsibility that ultimately protects human wellbeing as well.

Today, she serves as the Deputy Director of Veterinary Services at the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries and is Kenya’s World Organisation for Animal Welfare (WOAH) Focal Person. Yet, her impact cannot be measured by titles alone.

As a former coordinator of the Animal Welfare Forum of Kenya (AWAKE), Dr. Njuguna fostered unprecedented collaboration by bringing together government agencies, civil society organisations and development partners under one platform. Their collective efforts contributed to shaping key national conversations and ultimately influenced the drafting of Kenya’s Animal Welfare Bill, a major step forward for the country.

Earlier in her career, while serving as Head of Animal Welfare, she championed the training of all veterinary interns in animal welfare principles, ensuring that compassion, ethics and professional integrity remained central to Kenya’s veterinary practice.

Her influence has extended beyond local borders, representing Kenya at continental and global forums, including the Africa Animal Welfare Conference, where she has amplified the country’s voice on humane treatment of animals and responsible wildlife stewardship.

Saturday’s ceremony drew prominent leaders, including Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe and KVA Chairman Dr. Kevin Osore, whose presence highlighted the critical role veterinarians play in safeguarding national health systems, food safety, and biodiversity.

For the people of Thika, and especially Landless Estate, Dr. Njuguna’s achievement is a moment of pride and inspiration. Her story stands as a reminder that excellence can be nurtured anywhere and that local communities continue to shape national and global success stories.

Congratulations to Dr. Njuguna for flying the Thika flag high.