On 24th October 2025, the Redemptorist Family in the Kenyan Mission joyfully celebrated the remarkable achievement of Rev. Fr. Augustine Mugambi Kiruja, C.Ss.R, who graduated with a Doctorate in Moral Theology from the Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA), Nairobi-Karen Main Campus.
Fr. Mugambi stands as a true inspiration and pioneer within the Mission, being the first Redemptorist in the Kenyan Mission to be ordained and to attain a PhD. His journey reflects deep faith, determination, and a lifelong commitment to the Redemptorist mission of evangelization through both academic and pastoral service.
Speaking about his academic journey, Fr. Mugambi shared that his pursuit of advanced studies in Moral Theology began in 2010 when he travelled to Rome to study at the Accademia Alfonsiana, a leading Redemptorist institute for Moral Theology. He completed his Licentiate in 2012 and later served in South Africa at St. Joseph’s Theological Institute (SJTI), where he lectured in Marriage and Sexuality, Social Moral Theology, Fundamental Moral Theology, and Bioethics.
After his years in academia, he took up pastoral ministry as Parish Priest at Our Lady of Sorrows Parish, serving the faithful for four years. Yet, his passion for moral reflection and Redemptorist scholarship remained alive. “After years of teaching and pastoral work, I felt called to return to study,” he reflected. “I began my PhD studies in 2021 at the Catholic University of Eastern Africa. St. Alphonsus inspired me, as I followed in his footsteps to address the moral dilemmas of our time.”
Fr. Mugambi’s doctoral research focused on “The Ethical Task of Information and Communication Technology in Promoting Solidarity in the Catholic Archdiocese of Nairobi–Kenya.”
His motivation stemmed from the growing ethical challenges and moral questions surrounding modern technology. “I was motivated by the gap and ethical concerns in the use of modern technology,” he explained. “In fulfilling these moral and ethical concerns, I felt the need to study how we can use ICT responsibly and become accountable stewards in this digital era.”
His work explores how the Church can integrate technology as a tool for communion and moral growth, promoting responsible use of digital platforms in a way that fosters solidarity and authentic human connection.
Among the key lessons drawn from his research, Fr. Mugambi emphasizes that the value of ICT in today’s world cannot be ignored, especially with the rapid development of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
“For me,” he says, “technology is not only a tool to be used, but a sacred space that can lead to Cyber-Theology. Since God created out of nothing, humanity continues to create the world through wisdom and visible materials. This is where we move from praxis to orthopraxis—from action to right and meaningful action.”
Today, Fr. Augustine Mugambi continues to serve both academically and pastorally. He lectures at Utume Don Bosco Theological Institute and serves as Dean of Students at Consolata International University, where Redemptorist students in the Theologate and Philosophate pursue their studies. In accordance with the Faculty of Theology guidelines, Fr Mugambi is now expected to publish as part of the requirements for attaining the full academic title.
His achievement is not only a personal milestone but also a sign of growth and academic advancement for the Redemptorist Mission in Kenya. Through his teaching, research, and pastoral ministry, he continues to inspire a generation of young religious to integrate faith, reason, and technology in the service of the Gospel.
As a Mission, we celebrate his dedication and pray that the Lord may continue to guide him in his journey of service to the Mission of Christ the Redeemer.
Br. George Sifuna
