Antony Manyara (born October 23rd, 1993) is a Kenyan politician, architect, and student leader, known for his roles as chairman of the University of Nairobi Students’ Association (UNSA) and the Kenya University Students’ Organization (KUSO).[1] He is recognized for his advocacy in student governance and engagement in national policy.

Early Life and Education

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Manyara was born and raised in Tigania East, Meru County, Kenya. He attended multiple primary schools, completing his education at St. Aloysius Primary School, where he served as head boy. For secondary school, he attended Meru School, graduating in 2013 with an A-minus. In 2014, he founded Mantox Meru Theatre to support creative development among local high school graduates. In 2015, he joined the University of Nairobi to pursue a degree in Architecture, graduating in 2019, and later returned to the university to study law.[1]

Student Leadership

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In 2018, Manyara was elected chairperson of UNSA. During his term, he launched the "Change the Narrative" campaign to reshape the public image of University of Nairobi students as positive and law-abiding.[2] His leadership earned him recognition and awards from various organizations.

In 2019, he became the first chairman of KUSO and was re-elected in 2020 and 2021.[3] Through KUSO, he has advocated for youth representation, urging leaders to involve younger generations in policy decisions.[3] In 2021, he was elected chairperson of the East African Students Union (EASU), representing students from across East Africa.

Advocacy and Policy Engagement

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Manyara has frequently engaged in national policy discussions. He has expressed support for initiatives like the affordable housing program, highlighting its importance for students.[4] Additionally, he opposed government cuts to the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB), arguing it would restrict student access to education.[5]

Manyara has also encouraged youth participation in government programs, advocating for their perspectives in policy.[5]

Outside his advocacy work, Manyara is a practicing architect and businessman. He is also involved in miraa farming, which is significant to Meru County’s economy.[1]

References

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  1. ^ a b c "A defiant child who became peace proponent – Antony Manyara – People Daily". Retrieved 2024-11-10.
  2. ^ "University Student's President Antony Manyara assures President Ruto support on Affordable Housing Program". www.mpasho.co.ke. Retrieved 2024-11-10.
  3. ^ a b "Equal number of youths, at least 2 Gen Zs: KUSO tells Ruto on forming new Cabinet". Citizen Digital. 2024-07-13. Retrieved 2024-11-10.
  4. ^ Odindo, Nancy (2024-01-06). "KUSO's Antony Manyara backs affordable housing, says it will benefit students". Tuko.co.ke - Kenya news. Retrieved 2024-11-10.
  5. ^ a b "KUSO chairman opposes move to reduce HELB by KSh3.7 billion". 2024-05-23. Retrieved 2024-11-10.