The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) has officially opened the 15th KEMRI Annual Scientific and Health (KASH) Conference in Nairobi. This year’s conference, themed “Research, Technology, and Innovation for Sustainable Health Systems: A Community-Driven Agenda,” will run from February 11 to 14, 2025. The event brings together leading scientists, policymakers, industry leaders, and healthcare professionals to discuss groundbreaking research and transformative innovations in health sciences.
Speaking during the opening ceremony, KEMRI’s Acting Director General, Prof. Elijah Songok, emphasized the significance of KASH 15 in fostering innovation and strengthening collaborations within the biomedical research space. He noted that the conference serves as a platform to showcase evidence-based solutions that shape resilient and sustainable healthcare systems. In his remarks, Prof. Songok stated that the conference provides an important opportunity for advancing scientific discourse and fostering strategic collaborations that will drive impactful healthcare solutions. He further expressed excitement about the launch of key initiatives that will solidify KEMRI’s role in cutting-edge research and innovation.
One of the major highlights of KASH 15 is the launch of the KEMRI Precision Medicine Centre of Excellence (PM CoE) and the formation of the Precision Medicine Society. These initiatives will play a crucial role in driving research and applications in precision medicine, an area that is rapidly transforming healthcare. Additionally, the unveiling of the PM Kenya Task Force – Think Tank will facilitate thought leadership and collaborative engagement in this dynamic field.
Prof. Songok also announced the official launch of KEMRI’s Strategic Plan 2023-2027, a roadmap that will guide the institution’s growth, research excellence, and impact on healthcare outcomes. The strategic plan is aligned with key national and global frameworks, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Kenya Vision 2030, the African Union Agenda 2063, and the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). The plan builds on the successes of the previous 2018-2023 strategic framework and aims to strengthen research for human health, promote innovation and product development, enhance disease surveillance and response, build research capacity, ensure financial sustainability, and improve institutional effectiveness.
While acknowledging the critical role of partnerships in driving research excellence, Prof. Songok expressed his deep appreciation to KEMRI’s partners and collaborators. He highlighted that KEMRI’s progress is deeply rooted in strategic alliances that enhance research capacity and innovation. He reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to continued collaboration with global institutions to advance health outcomes both locally and internationally.
Beyond research, KEMRI remains committed to improving healthcare access and equity. Prof. Songok emphasized the institute’s advocacy for the Social Health Authority (SHA) as a key pillar in achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC). He urged stakeholders to support and promote SHA, which ensures that all Kenyans receive quality healthcare without financial hardship.
In his address, Prof. Songok took time to acknowledge the invaluable contributions of KEMRI’s workforce, recognizing the dedication and hard work of its researchers, scientists, and healthcare professionals. He assured them that KEMRI remains steadfast in prioritizing staff welfare, professional growth, and career advancement, as they play a crucial role in shaping the future of health research and innovation in the country.
Prof. Songok also extended his gratitude to the Cabinet Secretary for Health, Dr. Deborah Mulongo Barasa, for her unwavering support and leadership. He acknowledged the KEMRI Board of Directors, led by Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Ali, for their strategic guidance. He also commended Dr. Cecilia Mbae and the entire organizing committee for their tireless efforts in delivering a successful KASH 15 conference. Additionally, he expressed appreciation to all participants, researchers, policymakers, and industry leaders whose insights and contributions make the conference a vital platform for advancing health research and innovation.
Prof. Songok encouraged all participants to engage actively, exchange ideas, and explore opportunities for meaningful collaborations. He expressed confidence that the conference would inspire groundbreaking innovations and drive forward KEMRI’s mission of advancing health research for the benefit of humanity. In conclusion, he wished all attendees a productive and insightful conference, emphasizing that KASH 15 stands as a testament to the power of scientific inquiry and collaboration in addressing pressing health challenges.