PS Mary Muthoni flags off 15th KASH Conference.

It was an ecstatic moment for KEMRI fraternity its partners, academia, researchers and Health practitioners from across the globe as the Permanent Secretary for Public Health and Professional Services Ms. Mary Muthoni officially launched the 15th annual KEMRI Annual Scientific & Health Conference (KASH) on 11th February, 2025 kicking off one of the most significant scientific events of the Institute’s calendar. The KASH Conference aims to offer a platform to KEMRI and other stakeholders an opportunity for dissemination, sharing and digesting of various scientific outputs and other allied products that include networking and strengthening partnerships and collaborations with a view to improving on Health and the quality of life. This year’s KASH conference is themed , “Research Technology and Innovation for Sustainable Health Systems; A community driven Agenda,” highlighting the importance of leveraging cutting edge research and innovation while embracing community driven approach to build sustainable health systems.

Ms. Mary Muthoni, the Principal Secretary, State Department for Public Health and Professional Services, who was representing the Cabinet Secretary, highlighted the critical role the KASH Conference plays in complementing the health agenda of the country. “I am happy to note that this esteemed platform has continued to drive innovation, foster partnerships, and bring us closer to achieving improved health outcomes for Kenyans,” she affirmed. The PS further commended the Institute and its partners for developing precision medicine initiatives, which include unveiling of the Precision Medicine Kenya’s Committee of Experts – Think Tank.“ The integration of precision medicine into Kenya’s healthcare system is a representation of a bold step towards achieving Universal Health Coverage and improving health equity,” she noted.

Ms. Muthoni, further emphasized the role KEMRI, plays in translating research which solidifies the Institute’s leadership in public health initiatives. “Let’s translate research into action, the work presented in this conference must be used to inform national health policies that will drive the nation forward,” she reiterated further adding that the ministry will offer unwavering support to its mission to advance its research and innovation.

This year’s conference held a unique pre- conference session that discussed in depth the intrigues of precision medicine, paving way for conversations surrounding the strengthening of disease management through targeted therapy.

While addressing the conference participants, the Chairman of the Board of Directors Dr. Abdullahi Ali expressed his optimism on the impact of the conference, not only to the participants but in shaping health research in the country. “I am particularly elated by the unveiling of the key strategic initiative, Precision Medicine, a land mark development that will propel Kenya to the forefront of targeted therapy, fostering research and clinical applications which enhance patient care,” said Dr. Ali.

The Acting Director Prof. Elijah Songok on his part outlined the Institute’s commitment to not only research, but also its dedication to improving healthcare access and equity. “Our Institute’s active advocacy for the Social Health Authority (SHA) underscores our commitment to ensuring that all Kenyans receive quality healthcare without financial hardship. Prof. Songok echoed the sentiments of other speakers on scientific advancements made by the Institute in collaboration with partners. He further stated that the Conference, underscores the critical role of evidence based solutions in shaping resilient and sustainable healthcare systems.

The chairperson of the KASH Conference Dr. Cecilia Mbae emphasized the vital role of the conference as a platform for knowledge exchange, bringing together researchers, policy makers healthcare practitioners, and industry leaders from across the globe.

During the opening ceremony, the Institute launched; the KEMRI Precision Medicine Center of Excellence (PM CoE), Precision Medicine (PM) Kenya’s Task Force Think Tank that will facilitate leadership and collaborative engagement in this dynamic field and the KEMRI Strategic Plan 2024-2028, a blue print that charts the Institute’s course for advancing research excellence and improving healthcare outcomes.

Following the launch, a plenary session on precision medicine was held, chaired by Ag. Director Scientific Programmes Partnerships and Grants Management Dr. Mariciannah Onono, to discuss the current landscape, ongoing initiatives, and future prospects of precision medicine in Kenya. Experts from various fields shared insights on key areas such as oncology, genomics, AI-driven innovations, and the role of molecular diagnostics in improving patient outcomes. The session emphasized the need for collaboration, investment in advanced technologies, and the development of policies that will support the integration of precision medicine into Kenya’s healthcare system.

The conference also featured the Genetic Ancestry Workshop, which featured KEMRI’s Head of Human Identification Department Ms. Eva Aluvaala. The session focused on key topics such as Ancestry on Genome wide Association Studies (GWAS), its applications in healthcare, its relevance in forensic investigations , and a case study on Mitochondria DNA. Participants also gained insights into current tools and technologies used in genetic ancestry research. The workshop concluded with a hands-on wet lab demonstration of Maxwell FSC and spectrum CE, offering practical experience in DNA extraction and sequencing technologies.