An Ode to Heritage: The Descendants of Those Who Designed and Built the Pyramids

In the heart of the Nile, amid the marvel of the pyramids, lies a story that

transcends time—a testament to scientific curiosity, inherent artistic knowhow, and the indomitable spirit of my people who designed and built the pyramids. This marvel, much like the path my parents laid before me, required dedication, foresight, and a deep understanding of eclectic nature of life and communities. Many of my generation and those before understand the unbroken spirit that lives not just in me but in many of my kin across the shores of Lake Victoria, and all the way along up the River Nile.

As I finally publicly acknowledge the #honorary #doctorate in Humanities (DHum) (Honoris Causa), received on April 23, 2024, in recognition of distinguished services in Leadership, Governance, and Community Development, it is an indication and acknowledgment of the more than half a century of values, learnings, and failures laid by the foundation of our great parents. What a blessing, what privilege to have parents who themselves have and continue to show that true leadership is rooted in service to others and that the greatest accomplishments are often those that benefit our communities. This guidance has been a beacon of light, illustrating that leadership is not just about achievement but about more about the impact we have on others' lives. It's about the grace of our talents and knowledge to make a positive difference in the world, no matter how small or large - even if the world may not think so.

In the varying roles that I have been privileged to hold, the one that stands out is during the COVID-19 pandemic, which affected the world. Serving as the Internal Communication Director for AfricaCDC, I had a fly on the wall understanding of the unjustness of humanity, and the greed of man. Not withstanding we did get to distribute vaccines across the continent, underscoring the critical importance of effective communication in times of crisis and ensuring that Africans received the necessary support to combat the pandemic. It was a profound reminder of the resilience and strength inherent in my heritage—a heritage that values community, compassion, and collective progress.

My journey, much like the construction of the pyramids, has been shaped by the intersection of technology, creativity, and community empowerment and loads of heavy lifting. The pyramids stand as a testament to the ingenuity and collaborative effort of my ancestral lineage. Constructing these monumental structures required meticulous planning, precise engineering, and a deep understanding of mathematics and astronomy, and many causalities too. It was a feat that had complex effects on communities, fostering a sense of discovery and possibility.

My journey is still on and continues to be a testament to the values of community development and inclusive prosperity. Through initiatives like The 4gotten Bottomillions (4BM), we empower over 500,000 individuals weekly, providing access to socioeconomic opportunities via WhatsApp, at No Cost, my most passionate jewel.

In conclusion, this honorary doctorate serves as a tribute to my parents Hon. Mathews Charles Onyango-Midika and Selina Auma Onyango-Midika, who laid the foundation of my life and and continue to instil in me the values of our Nilotic heritage of conquest and excellence. Their wisdom, their guidance, and their unwavering belief in the power of community continues to inspire me and many others. May this achievement, much like the construction of the pyramids, stand as a beacon of hope and inspiration, encouraging others to strive for excellence, service, and community-building that stands the test of many generations later.