Starehe Alumnus Driving Japan’s Engineering Marvels

Author Name : Virginia Migwi

Published Date : July 15, 2025

When you think of Japan, “innovation” immediately springs to mind. The nation’s prowess in technology, architecture, and robotics is celebrated worldwide—ranking 5th in high-quality scientific research output in 2023 and second only to South Korea in robot density in manufacturing. Yet few know that Kenyans are helping power this engine of progress.

A Scholarship That Changed Everything

Nakuru-born Victor Nago Maina—a proud Starehe Boys Centre alumnus—is one such trailblazer. In 2002, he earned a coveted Japanese government scholarship for Kenyan high school students. After acing tests in mathematics, chemistry, biology, and Japanese, Victor crossed continents to join Osaka University’s civil engineering program, specializing in structural design.

From Poultry House to Steel Bridges

Long before Starehe, an 11-year-old Victor built his first project—a chicken coop—sourcing timber and managing costs. That humble poultry house planted the seed for a lifetime in engineering. In Japan, he navigated language barriers and culture shock, leaning on youthful curiosity and the camaraderie of a handful of fellow African students.

Designing Landmarks Across Asia

Post-graduation, Victor chose to stay in Japan, seizing job opportunities that few international graduates secure. As a design engineer, he has shaped some of Asia’s most ambitious projects: the cable-stayed Nhat Tan Bridge in Hanoi and a major bridge in Mumbai, each demanding years of meticulous planning. His expertise has earned him accolades—from Turkey’s highways to committees of the Indian Road Congress.

Building a Kenyan Network Abroad

Victor isn’t alone. He and many Kenyan civil engineers in Japan stay connected through the Association of Kenyans in Japan and professional circles—proof that talent from the Rift Valley thrives on the global stage.

A Vision for Home

Despite his international success, Victor’s heart remains in Kenya. He dreams of returning to design a world-class infrastructure project that transforms lives back home—bringing the same spirit of innovation that defines Japan to the land that inspired his journey.