The Technical University of Kenya French Club has launched the first ever French Club magazine by a Kenyan university called ‘Écho de la Francophonie’.  This pioneering publication reflects the dynamism, creativity and commitment of TU-K students to the promotion of the French language and culture.

The magazine to be published annually, documents students’ activities including debates, various competition such as public speaking. The current and past Kenyan English language assistants in France and their French counterparts in Kenya, would also be sharing their experiences through writing and photography. The inaugural magazine is carrying articles written in both English and French.

The launch was organised online by the French Embassy in Kenya and Somalia, under the coordination of Ms. Léa Laouf, the immediate former Linguistic and Education Attachée. In her remarks, she warmly commended the Club members for their innovative work and their role in strengthening French learning and intercultural exchange on campus.

Former Dean of students Prof. Omondi Oketch who was present during the magazine launch, highlighted the key role TU-K French Language Resource Centre has played in supporting students’ initiatives and the importance of multilingualism in higher education.

Speaking from Besançon, France, where she was attending an international congress for teachers of French, Dr. Teresa Otieno, the Patron of the TU-K French Club, congratulate the team. In her remarks, she underscored the Club’s journey from a small student group to a recognised hub for Francophone activities and praised the students for setting a benchmark for other universities.

Minds behind the magazine

At the heart of this groundbreaking magazine are visionary alumni and student leaders whose dedication has made the dream a reality:

• Denis Kipkoech, TU-K alumnus and former French Club leader, designed the magazine. A Building Construction graduate, he briefed the audience on the journey from concept to realisation, delivering his remarks from France, where he has been for two years as an English Language Assistant.

• Amos Nashisako, former Club President and Building Construction student set to graduate this year; took up leadership of the Club when he was still in his second year, showing early dedication, vision and maturity;
• John Munene, Diploma in Civil Engineering graduate, currently in France pursuing a degree in the same field in French; previously in charge of the club’s social media platform “ChitChat,” which gave the club wide visibility;
• Majimbo Anyangu, graduating this year in Electrical Engineering, led the club’s debate activities that won TU-K accolades in inter-university competitions and served as Master of Ceremonies during the launch – all in French;
• Catherine Juma, TU-K alumnus and French Club member, who gave a passionate address in French;
• Lazare, alumnus of JKUAT and a great friend of TU-K French Club, journalist by training, fluent in French and has been in France as a Language Assistant, spoke on behalf of the club’s associate members.

In her closing remarks, Léa Laouf reflected on the broader ecosystem of French in Kenya—how universities, diplomats, alumni and students are all part of a vibrant network advancing French language, culture and opportunity.

She applauded the work done by the students of the TU-K French Club, saying their magazine “is a beacon” for what young people can achieve when language education is supported. She emphasised that such initiatives strengthen cultural bridges, open up educational and professional paths, and reinforce Kenya’s place in a multilingual world.

The magazine would be distributed to the University Library and key offices within the campus.