Tangaza University Celebrates 40 Years

Tangaza University Celebrates 40 Years

Tangaza University in Nairobi, Kenya, is celebrating 40 years of preparing men and women for service to the Church and society.

Founded in 1986 as a center for the formation of religious priests, Tangaza has grown into a Catholic university offering programs in theology, education, social sciences and other fields. The university has declared March 2026 through March 2027 a Jubilee Year under the theme, “Tangaza @ 40: A Jubilee of Faith, Mission and Academic Excellence.”

The Missionaries of Africa have shared closely in Tangaza’s story. When the Society opened its first theology formation center in Africa in Nairobi in 1994, its students pursued their theological studies at Tangaza. Since then, Tangaza has played an important role in the theological education of Missionaries of Africa preparing for priesthood and missionary service.

Father Aylward Shorter, M.Afr., a noted anthropologist, theologian and scholar of African cultures, served as Principal (President) of Tangaza College from 1996 until 2002. His leadership came during an important period of growth as Tangaza expanded its academic programs and facilities.

That relationship continues today. The Missionaries of Africa sponsor Tangaza’s Institute for Interreligious Dialogue and Islamic Studies (IRDIS). Established in 2019, IRDIS draws upon the Society’s long experience with Muslims and its commitment to Christian-Muslim dialogue.

As Tangaza celebrates four decades of faith, education and service, the Missionaries of Africa celebrate an institution that has helped form our own members and remains an important partner in preparing men and women for service to the Church in Africa.

Learn more about Tangaza University’s 40th Jubilee celebrations.

News article: Tangaza University Marks 40 Years Of Service To Kenya And Beyond