By Michelle Ndaga
Principal Secretary for Medical Services, Dr. Ouma Oluga, met today with a delegation from the KEMRI–Wellcome Trust at Afya House to discuss ways of deepening collaboration and advancing Kenya’s health research agenda.
During the meeting, Dr. Oluga emphasized the Ministry of Health’s commitment to building collaborative, sustainable, and impactful research ecosystems that drive innovation, strengthen national research capacity, and contribute directly to improved health outcomes for Kenyans.
The discussions also reviewed ongoing initiatives and explored new avenues for joint action in priority health areas, including disease surveillance, health systems strengthening, and equitable access to research benefits.
The KEMRI–Wellcome Trust delegation was led by Mr. Chris Bird, Chief Legal Officer, and included Dr. Julia Kemp, Associate Director for Equitable Research Ecosystems, Ms. Yolisa Nalule, Ecosystems Lead Africa, and Mr. Con Omore Osendo, Governance and Policy Adviser.
The meeting provided a platform for both parties to identify strategies for enhancing collaboration and ensuring that research outputs translate into practical health interventions across Kenya.
Dr. Oluga noted that partnerships with institutions such as KEMRI Wellcome Trust are critical in positioning Kenya as a hub for world-class health research, enabling the country to respond effectively to current and emerging health challenges.
The engagement signals continued commitment by the Ministry of Health and research institutions to foster innovation, strengthen evidence-based health policies, and enhance Kenya’s contribution to global health research and development.
