Daystar University in Nairobi has canceled a partnership with the Israeli government to establish a “Zion Forest” on its campus following public criticism over the ongoing war in Gaza.
The agreement, signed earlier this week by Israeli Ambassador to Kenya Michael Lotem and Daystar University Vice-Chancellor Professor Laban Ayiro, aimed to plant over 5,000 trees on university grounds. However, it faced backlash from Kenyans expressing solidarity with Palestinians, citing the high civilian toll in Gaza, where over 45,000 Palestinians have been killed since October 2023.
In a statement, Vice-Chancellor Ayiro clarified that the university does not support the ongoing conflict, emphasizing Daystar’s commitment to the sanctity of life and peaceful coexistence. The university also apologized for the unintended distress caused by the agreement.
The move follows a social media petition supported by former students, calling for the deal’s termination. Pressure has been mounting globally for institutions to cut ties with Israel and companies linked to the war.
The Israeli embassy had described the forest initiative, spearheaded by Kenya’s First Lady Rachel Ruto, as a symbol of friendship between the two nations. However, posts announcing the deal have since been removed from Daystar University’s social media platforms.