Committee challenges Health Research Institutions to deliver products that benefit Kenyans

The National Assembly Departmental Committee on Health has challenged research institutions to develop innovations that improve the lives of Kenyans and address key health challenges.
The Committee, led by Chairperson Hon. Dr. James Nyikal (Seme), said research institutions should focus on translating scientific findings into products and solutions that directly benefit the public.
The Chairperson spoke during the Committee's budget oversight visit to the Kenya Institute of Primate Research (KIPRE) headquarters in Karen, Nairobi.
"Kenyans expect you to translate research into products that can change their lives. You should work hard towards that goal," said Hon. Nyikal during a meeting with the KIPRE leadership and senior staff.
KIPRE management, led by Board Chairperson Prof. Josephat Mulimba and Director General Dr. Peter Mwethera, briefed the Committee on the institute's performance and ongoing reforms.
Among the institute's key projects is the planned rollout of an East African-specific snake antivenom. Dr. Mwethera said the product would be a landmark breakthrough expected to transform the management of snakebite envenoming across the region.
Committee members later toured KIPRE's research laboratories and interacted with scientists working at the facility.
The Committee also conducted a budget oversight visit to the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI). Members toured the KEMRI Multi-phase Laboratories, Training and Office Complex under construction at the Kenyatta National Hospital Complex and visited the Centre for Microbiology Research (CMR) Biosafety Level 3 high-containment facility.
The MPs later held a meeting with KEMRI management led by Board Chairperson Dr. Abdullahi Ali and Acting Director General Prof. Elijah, who briefed the MPs on the institute's charter status, strategic national role and their priorities. 
Hon. Dr. Nyikal reaffirmed the Committee's commitment to supporting the two institutions in their efforts to strengthen health research and innovation.
He also urged the management of both agencies to uphold financial prudence and accountability in the use of public resources.