KEMRI Shines & Clinches Top Awards at 2026 Mombasa Show

By Gladys Mathenge

The Institute has reaffirmed its position as a leading health research and innovation institution after emerging top in the “Research and Development category” at the 2026 Mombasa International Trade Fair and Exhibition held at the Mkomani Grounds.

The Institute outperformed more than 100 participating organisations to clinch the prestigious award, marking a triumphant return to the annual exhibition after a three-year break.

KEMRI also received the runners-up award for “The Stand That Best Interprets the Current Show Theme,” with judges applauding the Institute’s ability to effectively align its research and innovation agenda with the broader objectives of the trade fair.

The 2026 Mombasa International Trade Fair was held under the theme, “Promoting Climate Smart Agriculture and Trade Initiatives for Sustainable Economic Growth,” bringing together government institutions, businesses, innovators and members of the public to showcase products, technologies and initiatives contributing to sustainable development and economic growth.

For KEMRI, the exhibition provided an important opportunity to take science and research closer to the people. The Institute’s stand attracted a large number of visitors throughout the six-day event, with members of the public engaging researchers and staff to learn more about KEMRI’s mandate, ongoing scientific programmes and biomedical health innovations.

Visitors had the opportunity to interact directly with KEMRI teams and gain insights into how the Institute translates scientific research into innovative solutions aimed at addressing health challenges in Kenya and beyond.

The engagement also provided a valuable platform for researchers and staff to respond to questions from members of the public, share knowledge and create greater awareness of the critical role of biomedical research in improving health outcomes and transforming lives.

The Chairman of the KEMRI Board of Directors, Dr. Abdullahi Ali and his fellow directors, Ms. Wangui Njenga and Mr. Christopher Marwa not only graced the event, but took time to receive valuable feedback from the public, staff, members of management present and the public.

Later, Mr. Marwa and Acting Deputy Director, KEMRI Kilifi, Dr. Sophie Uyoga received the two trophies from Cabinet Secretary for Agriculture and Livestock Development, Mr. Mutahi Kagwe during a colourful award ceremony at the Main Arena.

The recognition marked a proud moment for KEMRI and reaffirmed the Institute’s commitment to excellence in research, innovation and public engagement. Beyond the awards, the strong turnout at the KEMRI stand underscored the public’s growing interest in understanding the role of scientific and biomedical research in addressing emerging health challenges and improving lives.

The Ag. Vice Chancellor and CEO, KEMRI was represented by Dr. Martin Bundi who also was the leader of the scientific delegation at the 2026 exercise. He was accompanied by a strong team that included Deputy Directors, Dr. Uyoga, Dr. Kalu Kitaba (Supply Chain Management), Ms. Carolyne Wandera (Commercial Enterprise) and Mr. Davis Mkoji (Corporate Communications). The events were coordinated by a strong Corporate Communications team, led by Mr. Wodera James.

A strong team of over 50 members of staff from KEMRI Kilifi Center, coordinated by Research Scientist, Dr. Patience Kiyuka manned the exhibition stand breaking down complex scientific research to the public during the six days event.

KEMRI’s successful participation at the Mombasa International Trade Fair further demonstrates the value of taking research beyond laboratories and institutional spaces and bringing it closer to the communities it serves.

By creating opportunities for dialogue, knowledge sharing and direct interaction between scientists and the public, the Institute continues to advance its mandate of translating research and innovation into practical solutions in the pursuit of better health.

The awards and overwhelming public engagement at the 2026 Mombasa International Trade Fair stand as a strong testament to KEMRI’s enduring commitment to ensuring that scientific research remains relevant, accessible and responsive to the needs of the people and communities it serves.