Dr. De Lima was on Wednesday, June 21, honoured with an honorary degree from Heriot-Watt University in the UK after serving as the institution's doctor for over four decades.
The physician born in Kisumu County in 1951 was recognised for his work as a medic for the university for over 42 years.
He was presented the academic title of Doctor of the University by Professor Richard A. Williams, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of Heriot-Watt University.
“It is with great pleasure and admiration that we celebrate this well-deserved recognition of Dr. De Lima’s outstanding contributions to our University community," the Vice Chancellor stated.
"By conferring this honorary degree upon Dr. De Lima, we acknowledge and appreciate his immense contributions to the betterment of our campus and to maintaining the health and safety of our students and staff," he added.
According to the VC, De Lima had been an invaluable asset to the institution and working beyond his exceptional medical skills.
Williams added that the doctor was involved in the establishment of various initiatives and services at the school including dental and counseling.
While receiving the degree, De Lima was grateful for the opportunities working at the hospital had opened for him.
"In accepting this honour, I acknowledge the greatly valued support of my family, friends, and colleagues. It has been a purely rewarding privilege to have an opportunity of providing primary healthcare to thousands of students, occupational healthcare to staff, and GP (General Service ) services to the local community," he stated.
His skills in Diving Medicine gave him the chance to work as the joint medical adviser to the Royal Geographical Society's 'Shoals of Capricorn' marine research project.
Despite his retirement, De Lima will serve as the Consultant Occupational Health Physician at the university.
After his education in Kisumu, the doctor taught for a couple of years in Western Kenya to raise funds for his education at the University of Edinburgh.
