Mount Kenya University (MKU) has established a living herbarium to strengthen training and research in medicinal plants, placing practical learning and conservation at the center of its academic programmes.
The initiative, led by the School of Pharmacy in partnership with its alumni network (MKU-SPAN) and the Pharmacy Students Association (MKUPSA), was launched during a Tree Planting initiative majorly of medicinal trees.
The herbarium, a curated collection of living medicinal plants, will serve as a permanent teaching and research facility, enabling students to study plant-based compounds, preservation methods and drug development processes in real time.
The Institution’s Principal Corporate Services and Director of Linkages Prof. Peter Wanderi said the facility will directly support training in pharmacognosy and natural product research while conserving plant species of medicinal value.
Speaking at the event, Prof. Wanderi said the project is designed to shift learning from theory to application, equipping students with practical skills while contributing to biodiversity conservation.
He urged stakeholders to align sustainability efforts with Kenya’s Vision 2030 agenda, noting that institutional initiatives play a key role in driving national development goals.
“The herbarium will continue to expand as a long-term resource for teaching, research and conservation. We expect to boost training in research on herbal products and drug development processes, “said Prof. Wanderi.
The Dean of the School of Pharmacy, Dr. Michael Mung’oma, said the herbarium will enhance understanding of the link between plant science and healthcare while safeguarding critical plant species. He added that the project supports global commitments under the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly on climate action and protection of terrestrial ecosystems.
The initiative also contributes to Kenya’s national target of planting 15 billion trees by 2032 to restore degraded landscapes and expand forest cover.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Administration, Planning and Institutional Advancement Prof. Peter Kirira said the focus should shift from planting trees to ensuring their survival, calling for sustained stewardship.
Partners including AAR Healthcare, Analabs and Najimudu Empowerment Initiative backed the project, lauding its integration of research, training and environmental sustainability.
By Muoki Charles
