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February 25, 2026Kenya Launches mRNA Technology Transfer Programme in push for Vaccine Self-Reliance
By Stella Njung’e
Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) is part of a new and exciting chapter in Kenya’s journey toward vaccine self-reliance following the official launch of the World Health Organization–Medicines Patent Pool (WHO–MPP) mRNA Technology Transfer Programme by Principal Secretary for Medical Services, Ministry of Health, Dr. Ouma Oluga, during a stakeholder event held on 18th February 2026 in Nairobi.
The initiative, implemented through the Kenya BioVax Institute (KBI) in collaboration with KEMRI positions Kenya among a select group of countries building capacity for local production of mRNA vaccines and future therapeutics targeting priority diseases. Globally, the programme spans fourteen low- and middle-income countries across Africa, Asia, Europe and Latin America. In Africa, this includes South Africa, Egypt, Nigeria, Senegal and Tunisia.
The technology transfer model is led by a South African consortium comprising Afrigen Biologics, the Biovac Institute and the South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC), which is developing and sharing an end-toend mRNA platform with participating countries. The goal is to establish sustainable, locally owned vaccine manufacturing capacity while strengthening pandemic preparedness and long-term health security.
Upon successful completion, the programme is expected to deliver several strategic outcomes once fully implemented, including the establishment of operational mRNA manufacturing capacity in Kenya and the successful localization and optimisation of the transferred technology. It will also enhance national and regional pandemic preparedness and response capacity while positioning the country as a regional hub for mRNA vaccine and biopharmaceutical manufacturing.
Speaking during the launch, Dr. Oluga said the programme marks a decisive shift from dependence on imported vaccines toward local preparedness.
“The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the risks of relying entirely on external supply chains for lifesaving vaccines,” he said. “By investing in mRNA technology and local manufacturing, Kenya is securing timely access to vaccines, strengthening pandemic preparedness and protecting our population during future outbreaks. This is an important step toward health security”
He added that the platform would enable rapid response to emerging diseases while supporting routine immunisation programmes.
“mRNA platforms can be adapted quickly to new pathogens. This means we can develop vaccines relevant to our region while building industrial capacity, creating jobs and reducing long-term healthcare costs,” the PS noted. In the collaborative agreement, KEMRI will contribute research expertise, laboratory infrastructure and scientific capacity to support development, validation and local adaptation of the technology platform.
Representing the Ag. Director General (DG), Head Resource Development and Knowledge Management (RD & KM), Ms. Lilian Maiyeka described the programme as transformational for both science and public health.
“At KEMRI, we see this initiative as a catalyst for three transformative outcomes,” Ms. Maiyeka stated. “First, strengthening national and regional health security through enhanced technological readiness and pandemic preparedness. Second, accelerating the growth of a globally competitive biopharmaceutical ecosystem that supports research, manufacturing and innovation. Third, building a pipeline of highly skilled scientists and innovators who will sustain Africa’s leadership in next-generation health technologies.”
The institute emphasised that the effort demonstrates the value of partnerships bringing together government, research institutions, global organisations and industry around a shared vision.
The Kenya BioVax Institute Board Chair, Dr. Charles Githinji described the technology transfer as a defining moment for the country’s pharmaceutical sector.
“This is more than a project. It is the beginning of a new era for Kenya’s biopharmaceutical industry,” stated Dr. Githinji. “Receiving mRNA technology positions Kenya as a regional hub capable of developing and producing vaccines for diseases that affect our populations most.”
They noted that beyond COVID-19 vaccines, the programme will support development of other vaccines and therapeutics while enabling local innovation and eventual technology ownership
By combining government leadership, research expertise and international collaboration, the initiative signals Kenya’s commitment to building sustainable vaccine manufacturing capacity and ensuring Africa is better prepared for future health emergencies, not only as a recipient of vaccines, but increasingly as a producer.
In his remarks, Dr. Githinji further underscored the critical role of strong governance, regulatory excellence and longterm sustainability in anchoring the Programme’s success. He noted that beyond infrastructure and technology transfer, the initiative must be supported by robust oversight frameworks, compliance with international quality standards, and a clear sustainability roadmap to ensure that Kenya’s mRNA manufacturing capacity remains globally competitive and financially viable.
“Technology alone is not enough,” he said. “We must build institutions that are transparent, accountable and aligned with global regulatory standards if this investment is to deliver lasting impact for Kenya and the region.”
On his part, Kenya BioVax Institute Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr. Wesley Ronoh expressed optimism about the initiative, noting that the partnership marks a significant step toward local ownership of advanced vaccine technologies. “We are excited to work alongside KEMRI and our local and global partners to ensure the technology is adapted, improved and ultimately fully owned locally,” he said.
In preparation for the rollout, six researchers from Kenya Biovax Institute and KEMRI have been trained to support the initial stages of technology transfer. At KEMRI, the trainees include Dr. Ernest Wandera, Dr. Edith Chepkorir and Dr. James Kimotho.
Present at the launch were partners from the WHO led by, Dr. Neema Kimambo, MPP representative, Julien Bon, ThermoFisher led by Chris April and other government saga’s including the Pharmacy and Poisons Board (PPB)
