DR. JANE NJUGUNA CHAMPIONS KEFRI’S ROLE IN PRESERVING AFRICA’S TRADITIONAL MEDICINE HERITAGE

KEFRI Director General Dr. Jane Njuguna continues to demonstrate visionary leadership in linking forest conservation, scientific research and the preservation of indigenous knowledge for the benefit of present and future generations.*

Today, Dr. Njuguna led the Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI) in joining the Ministry of Health, Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) and other stakeholders in commemorating African Traditional Medicine Day at KEMRI.

The event, presided over by Health Cabinet Secretary Hon. Aden Duale, EGH, brought together senior government officials, researchers and stakeholders to reflect on the important contribution of traditional medicine to African communities and the need to strengthen scientific research around indigenous knowledge.

The participation of KEFRI under Dr. Njuguna’s leadership was particularly significant because many plants traditionally used for medicinal purposes are found among Kenya’s indigenous trees, forests and other natural resources.

Dr. Njuguna has continued to position KEFRI at the centre of efforts to conserve, research, propagate and promote the sustainable utilisation of these valuable forest resources.

Her approach recognises that forest conservation is not simply about protecting trees—it is also about safeguarding indigenous knowledge, community livelihoods, biodiversity and a rich African heritage passed down through generations.

During the commemoration, CS Duale acknowledged the important role played by research institutions such as KEFRI and KEMRI in preserving indigenous knowledge and generating scientific evidence that can unlock the potential of traditional medicine.

This recognition reflects the growing importance of collaboration between forestry, health and research institutions in ensuring that traditional medicinal resources are protected while their potential is explored responsibly.

Under Dr. Jane Njuguna’s leadership, KEFRI continues to demonstrate that scientific research and environmental conservation can work hand in hand to address contemporary challenges while preserving knowledge inherited from previous generations.

Her leadership is helping strengthen the conversation around the sustainable use of Kenya’s natural resources, while ensuring communities remain connected to the forests and indigenous species that have supported them for generations.

The message from the commemoration was clear: protecting indigenous trees and forests is also protecting Africa’s heritage of traditional knowledge.

Dr. Jane Njuguna deserves commendation for ensuring KEFRI remains an important voice in this conversation and for championing a research-driven approach to conservation, indigenous knowledge and sustainable development.

Happy African Traditional Medicine Day.