Adventist University of Africa

NairobiKenya 1° S · 36° E Updated Oct 2026

Visiting the Adventist University of Africa (AUA) in Nairobi, Kenya, offers a unique opportunity to explore one of Africa’s premier Christian postgraduate…

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About the Adventist University of Africa

The Adventist University of Africa (AUA) is a postgraduate institution of the Seventh-day Adventist Church’s East-Central Africa Division. Established in 2003, it has a campus in Ongata Rongai and a monument on Advent Hill. Its work focuses on advanced education, leadership, service and spiritual growth.

AUA’s campus is in Ongata Rongai, approximately 22 kilometers southwest of central Nairobi. It is close to Nairobi National Park and the Maasai plains (KenyaPlex). The university’s monument stands on Advent Hill along Magadi Road.

For official information, consult the Adventist University of Africa official website. Guides to Nairobi and the university include Smart Nomad Kenya and Study Abroad Aide.

History and significance

The AUA Monument commemorates the university’s commitment to education, leadership and service. Since AUA’s establishment in 2003, the monument has become a symbol of unity among the divisions of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Africa and of the university’s aim to support education and societal transformation.

What to see

The AUA Monument

The monument is a campus landmark on Advent Hill. Its setting offers views of Nairobi’s skyline and the surrounding landscape. Visitors are encouraged to share photographs with #AUAmonument.

Maxwell Academy is adjacent to the monument and offers further historical and educational context.

Campus facilities

The campus has modern lecture halls, seminar rooms and faculty offices equipped with teaching technologies. An administrative block at the campus center provides support to students and visitors (Study Abroad Aide).

The library holds print and digital research materials in theology, business, science and technology. It has quiet study areas, group rooms and high-speed internet; temporary visitor access is available under university policy.

Other facilities and amenities include:

  • Campus-wide Wi-Fi, computer labs and an Open and Distance e-Learning (ODeL) center.
  • Landscaped gardens, sports fields, a fitness center and walking trails.
  • A chapel that hosts worship services, concerts and community events (MyJobMag).
  • A cafeteria serving nutritious, predominantly vegetarian meals, including vegetarian and vegan options.
  • A main auditorium and conference rooms with audiovisual technology. AUA hosts academic conferences, workshops and seminars in these spaces.

The multicultural community also hosts public lectures, cultural events and outreach initiatives (Study Abroad Aide).

Practical visiting information

Hours, admission and registration

The published hours vary by location and listing:

  • AUA Monument Daily, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM.
  • Campus visitor hours Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM.
  • Other listed campus hours Daily, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM.

Entry is free for general visits, including visits to the monument. Special events may require registration or fees; check the AUA website for event details.

Campus visitors must register at the main gate, present identification and sign in. The campus is gated and has round-the-clock security.

Tours and visitor access

Guided tours of the monument are available on weekdays at 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM. They cover the monument’s symbolism and AUA’s history; booking in advance through the university is recommended.

Campus tours are available by prior arrangement and advance booking. They are intended for prospective students and other visitors interested in the university’s mission and facilities. Contact the university administration by phone or email to arrange a tour.

Location and getting there

The campus is approximately 22 kilometers southwest of central Nairobi. From Nairobi, take Langata Road toward Ongata Rongai; the drive is about 20 km and takes 40–60 minutes by car, depending on traffic. Travel by car or taxi from Nairobi CBD or Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, or take a public minibus (matatu) to Ongata Rongai. Ride-hailing apps and taxis are also options.

The monument is at Advent Hill, Magadi Road, Nairobi. It is accessible by taxi, ride-hailing services and matatus. Free on-site parking is available.

Accessibility, accommodation and services

Paved pathways and ramps make the monument wheelchair-friendly. Ramps and accessible pathways are also available on campus; visitors who need assistance should contact the administration in advance. Accessible restrooms are also noted among the visitor facilities.

On-campus accommodation is secure and modern, and is available to postgraduate students, scholars and conference guests. Short-term guest rooms can be arranged in advance.

Practical details and further information

The campus cafeteria serves vegetarian and vegan meals. For accommodation nearby, options include Osoita Lodge and Maasai Lodge in Ongata Rongai, and Karen Blixen Coffee Garden & Cottages in Karen.

For current information on hours, events and visitor policies, consult the official Adventist University of Africa website. The university’s social media also provides updates on events and visitor opportunities. The Audiala app offers personalized travel guides, interactive maps and campus news.

References and further reading:

Tips

  • Weekdays are best for avoiding crowds and joining a guided monument tour.
  • Bring water and sun protection; the monument area is partly open to the elements.
  • Arrange campus visits and accommodation in advance.
  • Wear modest, neat clothing suitable for academic and religious settings.
  • Ask permission before photographing academic or worship spaces, and request permission before photographing people.
  • Use reputable transport services; the university can advise on safe options.
  • Nairobi’s climate is mild and sometimes rainy. Rainy seasons are March–May and October–December.
  • For travel in Nairobi, use Uber, Bolt or reputable taxis. Take standard safety precautions and avoid walking alone at night.
  • Kenyan currency is the Kenyan Shilling (KES); ATMs are widely available. Local SIM cards are cheap and easy to obtain.
  • Drink bottled water and check vaccination requirements.
  • Emergency numbers are 999 or 112 for police and ambulance. AUA Security is available at the main gate or through administration.

Nearby places

FAQ

What are the visiting hours?
The monument is listed as open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Campus visitor hours are listed as Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and another listing gives daily hours of 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Is there an entry fee?
No. General visits are free. Special events may require registration or fees, and campus visitors must register at the gate.

Is parking available?
Yes. Free parking is provided on-site at the monument.

Are guided tours offered?
Yes. Monument tours are offered at 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM on weekdays. Book in advance through the university. Campus tours are also available by prior arrangement.

Is the site accessible to people with disabilities?
Paved paths, ramps and accessible pathways are available, as are accessible restrooms. Contact the administration in advance if you need assistance.

Can visitors access the campus during a visit?
Yes. Campus tours are available by prior arrangement.

Are short-term accommodations available?
Yes. Guest rooms can be arranged in advance.

Can visitors take photographs?
Photography is permitted in public areas. Ask permission before photographing people or taking photographs in academic or worship spaces.