By L, KNA
Kenya today launched a modern genomic sequencing laboratory at the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) headquarters in Nairobi.
The facility strengthens the country’s preparedness against disease outbreaks, enhances research and surveillance, and positions Kenya as a leader in regional and global health security.
Cabinet Secretary for Health Aden Duale inaugurated the laboratory, declaring it a historic step in strengthening Kenya’s capacity for medical research, outbreak response, and public health security.
Duale said that the laboratory is not merely a facility but a national and continental milestone.
“This facility is more than just a laboratory. It is a beacon of hope, a symbol of resilience, and a commitment to protecting the health of our people while strengthening regional and global health security,” he said.
He notes that the expansion of the facility allows Kenya to reach beyond national borders.
“Today’s inauguration represents not only a national achievement but also a continental one, as we expand our reach to Africa and the Commonwealth. Together, we strengthen our ability to remain vigilant against disease outbreaks, safeguard public health, and support robust systems of surveillance and diagnostics,” he stated.
Duale recalled that in the past, test samples were taken abroad, particularly to South Africa or the Centers for Disease Control in Atlanta, which delayed results for up to 45 days.
With the new genomic sequencing facility in place, Kenya now conducts sequencing domestically, reducing costs and turnaround times.
“With the support of partners, Kenya has been able to build remarkable genomic sequencing capacity right here at home. This puts us on the verge of global recognition as a leader in outbreak response and surveillance,” CS Duale said.
He pointed out that the facility already plays a critical role in combating polio through rapid sequencing and virus isolation.
He further noted that the lab now provides a platform for addressing other diseases such as measles, rubella, mumps, Ebola, and yellow fever, while also supporting local innovation and research.
“This is part of our broader agenda of bottom-up economic transformation, ensuring equitable access to essential health science and training at our universities,” he said.
The CS affirmed that the government has elevated the facility to the status of national and strategic importance and committed to ensure sustainable operations through fair budgetary allocation and long-term partnerships.
World Health Organization (WHO) Country Representative in Kenya, Dr Abdourahmane Diallo, commended the government for its commitment to advancing health research and surveillance.
He underlined the importance of local leadership and capacity building in sustaining health security.
“WHO always believes in building local leadership. This laboratory gives us hope, and it is an example of how investment in local capacity creates lasting impact,” Dr Diallo says.
Dr Diallo observed that the facility strengthens centralized surveillance and improves communication across the health sector.
“One of the central issues we learn is the value of centralized surveillance, and this laboratory makes it a model of preparedness. For us, it is essential that we are always ready to respond, particularly in the regions where vulnerabilities remain high,” he stated.
He praised the technical teams, consultants, architects, and engineers who worked on the project, saying their tireless contribution ensures the laboratory is future-ready and internationally accredited.
“My heart goes out to all those who work tirelessly. This laboratory is a result of your leadership, and it demonstrates our collective commitment to safeguarding health,” he said.
The WHO representative underscored that the facility’s regional role goes beyond Kenya’s borders. It serves neighbouring and partner countries including Ethiopia, Somalia, Sudan, Yemen, and Sri Lanka.
“By strengthening surveillance and empowering governments, this facility protects people from outbreaks, reduces costs, and ensures faster, more effective responses,” Dr Diallo said.
The laboratory is expected to play a pivotal role in ensuring compliance with international health regulations and in positioning Kenya as a leader in continental health science.
Dr Diallo highlighted the facility’s contribution to the fight against Covid-19 and other emerging epidemics.
“The pandemic teaches us that health institutions like this one are not optional. They are of strategic importance,” he said.
Both the Ministry of Health and WHO reiterate their commitment to sustain the facility, secure funding, and strengthen partnerships that ensure the laboratory continues to grow in scope and impact.
