Canada Seeks to Strengthen Research Ties with KEMRI

In a strategic step toward reshaping the national and global health landscape, the Institute hosted a high-powered delegation from the Canadian High Commission on Wednesday, 30th July 2025 at the Institute’s Central Laboratory Complex at KEMRI Headquarters in Nairobi.

The meeting attended by the Canadian High Commission representative Ms. Charity Kabaya, University of Kabianga Council Chairman Prof. Bosire Mwebi and Ag. Director General, Prof. Elijah Songok centered on strengthening bilateral partnerships in health research, biosecurity, and innovation.

The meeting also delved into modalities of fostering sustainable collaborations that respond to regional and global health challenges through science, capacity building, and long-term funding mechanisms.

“This collaboration presents significant opportunities for advancing public health locally, regionally, and globally,” said Prof. Songok. “Our focus is on aligning our mutual research opportunities, strengthening capacity and establishing effective rapid response systems.”

Ms. Kabaya reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to supporting science-based, socially impactful health solutions, “We see this collaboration with KEMRI as an opportunity to amplify innovation, equity, and access to healthcare across communities.”

In addition to biosecurity, the delegation explored opportunities for collaboration in combating lifestyle diseases, investing in medical breakthroughs, and supporting charitable health programs through strategic partnerships with relevant organizations.

The dialogue highlighted critical areas for research, including biosecurity and the threat of bioterrorism, with both sides acknowledging the growing need for robust preparedness and bio-risk management strategies in response to emerging global threats.

The delegation also explored partnerships in tackling lifestyle diseases, investing in medical breakthroughs, and supporting charity-based health programs through collaborations with organizations. Both parties expressed strong optimism about the future of this partnership, pledging to continue engagement and translate their shared vision into actionable programs.

The visit concluded with a tour of KEMRI facilities, offering the delegation a firsthand look at the Institute’s centres, the ongoing research programs, and the cutting edge research outputs.