Institute’s Scientific Steering Committee Charts Bold Future at Annual Retreat

The Institute’s Scientific Steering Committee (SSC) recently convened its annual retreat—a three-day strategic forum themed “Breaking Barriers”—to assess progress, tackle institutional challenges, and shape the Institute’s 2025–2026 research agenda.

Held in a spirit of reflection and renewal, this year’s retreat brought together key figures from both research and administrative arms of the Institute. The gathering emphasized the need to harmonize scientific and operational goals, ushering in a new era of collaborative leadership across disciplines. Among the major highlights was a shift toward digitizing performance contracting and the unveiling of a revamped structure for SSC meetings designed to enhance efficiency and inclusivity in decision making. The committee also focused on bridging the long standing divide between research and administration by fostering open dialogue and integrated planning.

A central theme of the retreat was the evolving research funding landscape which is marked by shifting donor priorities, heightened competition, and a growing demand for measurable impact and long-term sustainability. Committee members called for the diversification of funding sources, adoption of innovative financing models, and the pursuit of strategic partnerships beyond traditional frameworks.

Further, dismantling operational silos, strengthening research goals and priority setting, and enhancing implementation frameworks were seen as solutions to the existing quagmire.

“We must continuously evaluate how we work, break barriers that hinder progress, and ensure that our research translates into meaningful impact for the people of Kenya,” said Ag. Director of Research and Development and Chair of the SSC, Prof. Nelly Mugo and added, “it is imperative that this impact is both tangible and visible to the communities we serve.”

Director of Corporate Services, Mr. Jones Otuke, echoed the urgency of adapting to the changing landscape. “Thank you for the work you do. It reflects across the entire Institute. The funding environment is shifting fast, and we must evolve just as quickly,” he said.

The retreat also served as a platform to review milestones from the previous year, including the centralization of laboratory services following the approval of a new laboratory policy. A comprehensive lab audit was successfully completed, and several critical policies, including those on Data Protection and the Clinical Trials Unit, that have been finalized and are awaiting implementation. Notably, while internal research grants remain unfunded, there has been substantial progress in developing HR instruments and appraisal tools for scientists, which are now pending final approval. Additionally, a mentorship policy has been rolled out to build institutional capacity and strengthen governance.

However, challenges remain. Areas such as leadership training, implementation of peer review recommendations, and the establishment of the long-anticipated the KEMRI Graduate School are still in progress, highlighting the need for sustained commitment to institutional development.

On the policy front, the SSC reported significant strides in formulating and implementing frameworks to enhance research governance. Policies on Overhead Appropriation, Intellectual Property (IP), and Research Integrity have been approved by both KEXCOM and the KEMRI Board of Directors. Most of these documents are now accessible via the institutional intranet. Stakeholder sensitization sessions for the Data Protection and Research Integrity policies have already begun, with more scheduled during upcoming CSC meetings. The Overhead Appropriation Policy is currently being implemented, while the Clinical Trials Unit policy is set to roll out following budget allocation in the new financial year.

“Finalizing and adopting these policy documents is a critical step toward strengthening our governance structures,” Prof. Mugo emphasized. “It’s about building a predictable and transparent environment for research planning and implementation.”

The retreat culminated in a team-building activity, reinforcing the message that while science is at the core, collaboration and unity are what drive it forward. SSC Secretary, Dr. Samoel Khamadi, highlighted the importance of interpersonal relationships in scientific collaboration. “Beyond the science, this retreat helps us bond. We need to enjoy the human relationships that make our work stronger,” he said, also welcoming new members to the committee and encouraging the infusion of fresh ideas.

Reflecting on the retreat’s theme, Prof. Mugo delivered a poignant call to action: “It is the crisis that makes good leaders. As KEMRI’s scientific leaders, let’s break barriers by leading with purpose, innovating boldly, and driving research that transforms health for all Kenyans. Let us own our pot and hold ourselves accountable for what we do with it.