By: Cynthia Masibo
The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) officially opened its 15th Annual Scientific and Health Conference (KASH 15) at a hotel in Nairobi with a strong focus on advancing health research, precision medicine, and universal healthcare coverage.
Speaking during the opening ceremony, KEMRI Chairman of the Board of Directors, Dr. Abdullahi Ali, highlighted the significance of this year’s conference, which marks a major milestone in the institution’s strategic direction.
“KASH 15 underscores KEMRI’s role as a leader in health research, innovation, and evidence-based policy formulation. This conference reaffirms our collective commitment to advancing health science and strengthening healthcare systems through research-driven solutions,” Dr. Ali stated.
Among the key highlights of the event was the launch of the KEMRI Strategic Plan 2023-2027, a blueprint aimed at driving research excellence and enhancing healthcare outcomes. According to Dr. Ali, the strategic plan redefines KEMRI’s focus through revised core values and goals, setting the foundation for the development of innovative research products that align with Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).
A major component of this initiative is the Bio-manufacturing Training Hub, which seeks to develop expertise in bio-manufacturing while offering advisory support to strengthen Kenya’s healthcare ecosystem.
In addition to the strategic plan, KEMRI also unveiled its Precision Medicine Centre of Excellence (PM CoE) and the Precision Medicine Society. These initiatives position Kenya at the forefront of personalized healthcare by fostering research and clinical applications aimed at improving patient outcomes.
Dr. Ali also announced the formation of PM Kenya’s Task Force – Think Tank, which will provide a structured platform for collaboration, policy discourse, and thought leadership in precision medicine. “These developments will not only enhance Kenya’s capabilities in targeted treatment approaches but also create a roadmap for future research and healthcare advancements,” he said.
The KASH Conference has long been a key platform for disseminating and translating research findings into actionable policies. Dr. Ali emphasized that through engagements such as KASH and publications like the African Journal of Health Sciences (AJHS), KEMRI continues to foster meaningful dialogue among scientists, healthcare practitioners, policymakers, and development partners.
The conference also provides a forum to align discussions with global health priorities, particularly the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the World Health Organization’s (WHO) agenda on health promotion. Dr. Ali noted that significant global improvements in life expectancy and maternal, infant, and child health are a testament to the power of research-driven policies.
The Acting Director general Mr Songok warned that emerging and persistent health challenges—including aging populations, shifting disease patterns, environmental changes, and widening disparities in healthcare access—require urgent, innovative solutions. “Addressing these challenges demands sustained investment in research, capacity building, and international collaboration,” he noted.
Dr. Ali expressed appreciation for the dedication of KEMRI’s researchers and healthcare professionals in shaping the future of health research and innovation. He reaffirmed the Board of Directors’ commitment to providing a conducive environment for scientific growth and career advancement.
He also acknowledged the efforts of the KEMRI leadership team, led by Acting Director General Prof. Elijah Songok, and commended the 15th KASH Organizing Committee, chaired by Dr. Cecilia Mbae, for their efforts in making the conference a success.
As the four-day event unfolds, industry leaders, policymakers, and researchers are expected to engage in discussions that will shape Kenya’s health research priorities. “I encourage you all to participate actively, share knowledge, and explore impactful partnerships,” Dr. Ali concluded.
The KASH 15 Conference continues until February 14, 2025, with experts deliberating on key health challenges and opportunities for innovation in the sector.
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