Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) is set to receive a Ksh3 billion grant to enhance the research capacity and development of tropical medicine following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) by President William Ruto during his visit to Japan.

In a press release on Thursday, February 8, 2024, the grant will be channelled to the construction of a high-level facility for training for scientists in research and development of biotechnology products to enhance preparedness in the event of a biothreat or a new pandemic.

The research will also focus on the development of cures for HIV/AIDS and other chronic diseases such as cancer.

"KEMRI will receive Ksh3 billion support for more research on the development of tropical medicine to help cure diseases such as cancer and HIV AIDS that will continue to affect many Kenyans at the bottom of the economic pyramid. This is largely through PPs and grants," Government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura stated.

The facility will also contain high biocontainment laboratories with state-of-the-art equipment for use in disease surveillance, pathogen identification, drugs, vaccines and diagnostic kits design, discovery and development.

Speaking after the signing of the MoU, KEMRI’s Acting Director General and Chief Executive Officer, Elijah Songok who had accompanied Ruto on the trip lauded the move citing that this investment cemented KEMRI’s forefront position in leading other Kenyan and regional institutions in enhancing research and development for the improved health and wellbeing.

“We thank our President and the Japan Government through this new initiative. With the construction of this new facility at KEMRI, we shall be able to support the country and the region in training a new cadre of scientist that will immensely contribute to the required expertise for research and local development of medical products,” Songok stated.