At the International University of East Africa (IUEA), excellence is more than an aspiration—it is a lived experience shaped by discipline, innovation, and mentorship. Few alumni stories reflect this better than that of Herman Kanut Mihambo, a distinguished Tanzanian graduate whose achievements continue to inspire his peers and the broader IUEA community.
Herman completed a Bachelor of Science in Petroleum Engineering, graduating with a Second Class Upper Division, and received the prestigious IUEA Public Service Award 2024. This award—engraved with his name—honours students who embody leadership, community service, and the university’s core values.
Leadership Begins on Campus
Herman is well remembered for his role as Mr. IUEA 2022/2023, where he served as an exemplary student leader. His influence extended beyond the title; he represented IUEA with dignity, championed student engagement, and actively contributed to the vibrancy of campus life.
A Rising Engineer in Africa’s Largest Pipeline Project
After graduation, Herman entered the highly competitive Graduate Trainee Program, which paved the way for a significant professional milestone: securing a position with China Petroleum Pipeline Engineering Co. Ltd (Tanzania)—CPP, the primary contractor for the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP).
Today, he is a Graduate Engineer, contributing to a project that spans Uganda and Tanzania and plays a pivotal role in transforming the region’s oil and gas logistics.
Professional Mentorship and Industry Support
Herman’s transition into industry was supported by dedicated professionals, notably Mr. Charles Killian Chale, Local Content Coordinator at CPP Tanzania. His mentorship strengthened Herman’s confidence and readiness to contribute effectively to large-scale engineering operations.
A Tribute to IUEA Leadership and Faculty
Herman’s success story is deeply interconnected with the guidance, training, and leadership he received from the IUEA academic community. He extends his heartfelt appreciation to:
- Ambassador Hassan Alwi, Resident Director, for fostering a supportive environment where students are encouraged to pursue excellence, leadership, and industry relevance.
- Prof. Emeka Akaezuwa, Ph.D., Vice Chancellor, whose academic vision and commitment to quality education have elevated IUEA’s standing as a leading institution in East Africa.
- Prof. Dr. Abdulsalam Ibrahim Shema, Ph.D., MGBCN, Dean, Faculty of Engineering, under whose leadership the engineering programmes—especially Petroleum Engineering—have attained strong industry alignment and practical rigor.
- Lecturers of the Faculty of Engineering and Faculty of Science & Technology, whose unwavering dedication, mentorship, and expertise shaped Herman’s technical competence and professional readiness.
Herman attributes much of his success to IUEA’s ethos of empowerment, hands-on learning, and the leadership that continuously invests in student development.
A Reflection of IUEA’s Vision
Herman’s journey exemplifies IUEA’s mission of producing graduates who are not only academically capable but also globally competitive and industry-ready. His story is a reflection of how quality education, mentorship, and opportunity intersect to create real impact.
A Symbol of Achievement: The IUEA Public Service Award
Displayed proudly in his possession, the award commemorates Herman’s contributions during his time at IUEA. It signifies his dedication to service and leadership and stands beside his growing list of achievements in the professional arena.
Inspiring the Next Generation
As Herman advances within Tanzania’s energy sector, working at the heart of one of Africa’s most significant infrastructure projects, he serves as a beacon of what IUEA students can achieve. His story encourages aspiring engineers to dream boldly, work diligently, and embrace opportunity.
The IUEA community congratulates Herman Kanut Mihambo and celebrates his continued ascent as an engineer shaping the future of East Africa.
