Dr. Kamau Wairuri
Political Scientist, Criminology Lecturer & Thought Leader
Dr. Kamau Wairuri is a Kenyan political scientist, policy-oriented researcher, educator, and thought leader with a passion for democracy, human rights, and inclusive governance. His work focuses on policing, violence, and the experiences of marginalised communities in Africa.
π Academic Background
Dr. Wairuri holds:
- PhD in African Studies, University of Edinburgh
- MSc in African Studies, University of Oxford
- BA in Political Science and Sociology, University of Nairobi
His academic journey reflects a deep commitment to interrogating systems of power, security, and social justice in Africa.
π Research Focus
Kamauβs research is widely respected and centres around:
- Politics of state policing, police abuse, reform, and accountability
- Policing of marginalised, stigmatised, and criminalised groups
- Violence, including political violence, terrorism, and urban crime
His scholarship has been published in leading journals such as African Affairs and Africa, and edited volumes like the Routledge Handbook for the Horn of Africa. He currently co-edits a book project on migration and marginalisation in East Africa.
He is an active member of professional networks, including:
- British Institute in Eastern Africa (BIEA)
- African Studies Association (UK)
- Development Studies Association (UK)
π¨π½βπ« Educator & Mentor
Dr. Wairuri is currently a Lecturer in Criminology at Edinburgh Napier University, where he teaches undergraduate and postgraduate courses on policing and transnational crime. He also leads the Institute of Public Policy and Governance (IPPG) at Strathmore University Business School, Nairobi.
He has delivered lectures and seminars at prestigious institutions including:
- University of Oxford
- University of Cambridge
- University of Strathclyde
He is also an Associate Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (UK).
π§ Policy & Public Engagement
As a policy and public affairs consultant, Dr. Wairuri has advised organisations and leaders on:
- Safety and security
- Gender inclusion and equity
- Human rights mainstreaming
- Youth empowerment
His work in this space has been captured in technical reports and policy briefs.
ποΈ Public Thought Leadership
Kamau is a regular contributor to public debates on governance and social justice. His articles have appeared in:
- Daily Nation, The Standard (as a former columnist), and The East African
- African Arguments and The Elephant
He is the host of The Kenyanist, a podcast exploring the political and social issues affecting Kenyans today.
π¬ In His Words
βScholarship should serve society β through truth, clarity, and the courage to challenge injustice.β
π Connect with Dr. Kamau Wairuri
- Podcast: The Kenyanist
- LinkedIn: Kamau Wairuri