The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) has reinvigorated its partnership with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) with the signing of a new five-year collaboration agreement.
The memorandum of understanding was formalized in Atlanta, Georgia, United States, with KEMRI’s Acting Director General Prof. Elijah Songok and CDC’s Global Health Centre Director Dr. Kayla Laserson, in the presence of President William Ruto.
Under this renewed agreement, KEMRI and CDC pledge to continue their joint efforts in conducting cutting-edge medical research in Kenya to tackle public health threats. This collaboration aims to facilitate the dissemination and application of research findings, train public health professionals, and share research information, among other benefits.
In a statement, KEMRI emphasized that the agreement would enhance collaborative activities between the two organizations on a reciprocal basis, focusing on human health research, program implementation, and capacity building. It also highlighted the importance of adhering to Kenyan laws and regulations in conducting research activities.
Prof. Songok expressed appreciation for the four-decade-long partnership between Kenya and CDC, emphasizing its significance in addressing future health challenges, particularly in Africa. He highlighted the positive impact of previous collaborations on health outcomes in both countries, including strengthening Kenya’s public health and laboratory systems, supporting HIV response efforts, and contributing to global health security through initiatives like the Global Health Security Agenda.
Looking ahead, Prof. Songok emphasized the importance of this partnership in building a skilled workforce, promoting local and regional manufacturing, sustaining HIV response efforts, conducting innovative research, and investing in digital health strategies.
