Kenya has strengthened its role in global health security with the inauguration of a modern, expanded Polio Laboratory at the Centre for Virus Research (CVR), Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI).
The state-of-the-art facility, opened today by Health Cabinet Secretary Hon. Aden Duale, marks a key milestone in advancing the government’s Taifa Care Model and fulfilling commitments under the International Health Regulations (IHR).
The laboratory will serve as both the National and Inter-country Reference Laboratory, offering critical diagnostic and surveillance support to Kenya and neighbouring countries including Somalia, Djibouti, Eritrea, and Comoros. By improving in-country genomic sequencing capacity, the lab is expected to significantly cut turnaround times for outbreak detection and response.
Speaking during the launch, CS Duale noted that the facility represents a major step in Kenya’s efforts to eradicate polio while preparing for broader health challenges. “This laboratory not only strengthens our fight against polio but also equips Kenya to detect and respond to emerging and re-emerging health threats,” he said.
The expanded facility has been made possible through support from the World Health Organisation (WHO), the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, eHealth Africa, the Ministry of Health, and other development partners. It also aligns with the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA) for Health, which aims to expand access to quality health services, particularly at the grassroots.
Although primarily focused on polio, the laboratory is already operating as a multi-pathogen genomic platform. It is currently sequencing Mpox, measles, rubella, and enteric viruses, a move that experts say will enhance preparedness against future outbreaks.
Dr Elijah Songok, the Acting Director General of KEMRI, described the lab as a major asset for the country and the region. “This expansion places Kenya at the forefront of health security in Africa by strengthening laboratory systems and regional collaboration,” he said.
The launch event was also attended by Dr Abdullahi Ali, Chairperson of the KEMRI Board; Health Principal Secretary Dr Ouma Oluga; Director General for Health Dr Patrick Amoth; and outgoing WHO Country Director Dr Abdourahmane Diallo.
Kenya remains polio-free but, like other countries in the region, faces risks from cross-border transmission. With the new facility, health authorities are optimistic that early detection and rapid response will help safeguard communities while reinforcing the broader Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda.
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