The Kenya Medical Research Institute has secured a Sh77.2 million grant from the National Research Fund for stem cell research.
The research will provide relief to patients suffering from various medical conditions.
KEMRI’s the Centre of Excellence in Stem Research was inaugurated by National Research Fund Chairman Ratemo Michieka.
This ambitious project will help harness the potential of stem cells in developing treatments and preventive measures for non-communicable diseases.
Non-communicable diseases are responsible for 27 percent of annual deaths.
Prof. Michieka says researchers should focus on locally available materials and contribute to research and development.
He emphasized the importance of specializing in specific areas, which would garner international recognition and acknowledgment.
Prof. Michieka called upon MPs to leverage Kenya’s human resources to foster biotechnological industries in their constituencies. This, he said, would create jobs for the youth. He commended President William Ruto’s dedication to science and technology, which led to increased funding for research.
Dr. Abdullahi Ibrahim, Chairman of the KEMRI Board of Directors, emphasized the urgency of addressing non-communicable diseases.
Non-communicable diseases account for over 50 percent of hospital admissions.
He particularly underscored the need to find innovative solutions for preventing, diagnosing, treating, and curing cardiovascular diseases.
The Stem Cell Research facility will play a crucial role in generating healthy cells to replace damaged or diseased ones.
Stem cells possess the potential to transform into specific cells that can regenerate and repair tissues.
KEMRI’s CEO Elijah Songok expressed confidence that stem cell research would lead to the development of groundbreaking therapies.
He also announced that KEMRI’s medical products, such as diagnostic kits, vaccines, and drugs, are ready for large-scale manufacturing.
KEMRI has strategically organized its research activities into six categories: biotechnology, natural product research and drug development, infectious and parasitic diseases, public health and health systems, non-communicable diseases, and sexual, reproductive, adolescent, and child health. Through these efforts, KEMRI also aims to pioneer transformative medical solutions that will benefit both the nation and the global community.
