KEMRI Hosts NIH/NIAID Workshops to Bolster Research Capacity in Africa.
December 13, 2024Japanese Foreign Affairs Director Reviews Progress on Grant Aid Project in KEMRI.
The KEMRI team pose for a photo with the JICA delegates shortly after the meeting.
The Institute welcomed Japan’s Director of Country Assistance, Planning Division, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Higashi Kunihiko, on 3rd, December 2024, to assess the progress of projects undertaken through its longstanding collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
Mr. Higashi was received by the Director of Corporate Services, Mr. Jones Otuke, who represented Acting Director General Prof. Elijah Songok and his delegation that included Deputy Director, the East and Southern Africa Centre of International Parasite Control (ESACIPAC), Dr. Doris Njomo, Acting Director, Research Capacity Building (RCB), Dr. Martin Bundi and Research Scientist Dr. Evans Amukoye.
Welcoming his guest, Mr. Otuke highlighted the transformative impact JICA has had on the Institute over the years, stating: “Our close collaboration with JICA has significantly bolstered our research capacity over the years. Through joint efforts in staff training, infrastructure improvement, and laboratory capacity building, we have achieved remarkable strides. As an Institute, we are committed to advancing this partnership now and in the future.”
The visit included presentations on key joint initiatives. Dr. Njomo provided an update on the Science and Technology Research Partnership for Sustainable Development (SATREPS) project, emphasizing its achievements: A Social and Behavioral Research project proposal completed scientific review and is slated for ethical review in December 2024, as well as, Approval of the Development of Innovative Tools and Technologies project proposal by Maseno University’s Scientific and Ethics Review Unit, with ongoing reviews at KEMRI. Engagements with stakeholders such as Kenya Wildlife Services and the Wildlife Research and Training Institute.
Dr. Martin Bundi outlined the achievements of the Grant Aid Project, noting the completion of preparatory field studies, item confirmations, and the successful appraisal, exchange of notes, and signing of grant agreements with Japan.
The delegation toured key facilities, including the Centre for Viral Research (CVR) and the Centre for Biotechnology Research and Development (CBRD).
They also visited the proposed site for the Grant Aid (GA) Project, gaining first-hand insights into KEMRI’s cutting-edge initiatives.
Mr. Higashi expressed his satisfaction with KEMRI’s efficient project implementation, stating: “The dedication and efficiency of KEMRI in implementing these projects are commendable. Japan remains committed to supporting KEMRI’s vision for advancing innovation in research and development. What I have seen today reinforces the importance of this partnership. Together, we are achieving impactful results that benefit communities in Kenya and beyond.”
Accompanying Mr. Higashi were JICA Kenya representatives Mr. Kenji Hagashi and Mr. Elijah Kinyangi, as well as Japanese Embassy officials Ms. Yuko Hamadi and Mr. Akitoshi Fuji.
The visit reaffirmed the strong collaboration between KEMRI and JICA, a partnership that continues to enhance Kenya’s research capacity and foster scientific innovation. With mutual commitment, this alliance promises to deliver impactful outcomes, furthering KEMRI’s mission to transform health research and development for the benefit of communities worldwide.
