Kenya has marked a significant milestone in scientific research and biotechnology by being selected to host Africa’s first International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) Regional Research Centre (RRC).

This decision positions Kenya as a leader in genetic engineering and biotechnology on the continent, equivalent to the only other ICGEB RRC in China.

The ICGEB Board of Governors, which oversees 46 cutting-edge laboratories across Trieste (Italy), New Delhi (India), and Cape Town (South Africa), officially approved Kenya’s selection.

Additionally, Professor Walter Oyawa, Director General of the National Commission for Science, Technology and Innovation (NACOSTI), has been appointed as the ICGEB Governor for Kenya, further cementing the country’s role in global biotechnology initiatives.

Why Egerton University?

Egerton University’s main campus in Njoro Sub-County emerged as the ideal host for the research centre following a competitive selection process.

Seven universities initially vied for the opportunity, but after rigorous evaluation and on-site inspections, Egerton University was chosen.

A panel of experts from the USA, Italy, India, South Africa, and Kenya conducted the assessments, which concluded in the official endorsement by the ICGEB Board of Governors during its 28th session in May 2022.

According to Professor Oyawa, the institution’s commitment, faculty partnerships, and clear understanding of the RRC’s vision played a key role in its selection.

The centre will focus on key research areas, including food safety, molecular plant breeding, molecular plant pathology, entomology, genetic biofortification, and the development of molecular diagnostic tools.

This specialisation aligns with Kenya’s long-term goals of enhancing food security and sustainable agricultural practices.

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The Role of Biotechnology in Kenya’s Future

Biotechnology has been recognised as a transformative tool in tackling Kenya’s agricultural challenges. With climate change affecting food production, a growing population, and huge tracts of underutilised land, biotechnological advancements can provide innovative solutions.

According to Professor Oyawa, Kenya has the potential to adopt biotechnological methods successfully, much like South Africa, Egypt, and Burkina Faso, which have made significant strides in genetically modified crops.

For instance, the development of herbicide-resistant crops can reduce farmers’ workload and increase productivity, allowing them to allocate more time to other agricultural activities.

Additionally, biotechnology can be integrated with mobile technology to enable farmers to diagnose crop diseases remotely, further enhancing efficiency and food security.

A Boost for Research and Development

The establishment of the ICGEB RRC at Egerton University is a landmark achievement for Kenya’s scientific community.

As a hub for research, training, and technology transfer, the centre will strengthen the skills and knowledge of scientists while encouraging innovation in biotechnology.

It will also collaborate with institutions from ICGEB member states, enhancing regional scientific cooperation and mentoring smaller universities in Kenya.

Professor Bockline Bebe, Egerton University’s Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor in charge of Research and Extension, highlighted the centre’s role in fostering global collaborations and advancing research in disease biology, vaccine development, and diagnostics.

He emphasised that the RRC will operate as a Centre of Excellence, promoting sustainable development through scientific advancements.

The Journey to Hosting the ICGEB RRC

Egerton University formally expressed interest in hosting the ICGEB RRC in February 2021. A dedicated technical team was assembled to draft a proposal, which was submitted to NACOSTI in March 2021.

The team, led by Professor Josiah Omollo as the Institutional Principal Investigator, included esteemed researchers such as Professor James Owuoche, Professor Liu Gaoxiong, and several other scientists specialising in biotechnology and related fields.

The research centre’s establishment aligns with Kenya’s broader vision of becoming a leader in science, technology, and innovation.

By attracting global research talent and promoting homegrown expertise, the centre is expected to generate employment opportunities and contribute significantly to economic growth.

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A Step Towards Global Scientific Excellence

ICGEB, originally a special project of the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO), has grown into a globally recognised research entity with over 65 member states.

The organisation focuses on vaccine development, molecular biology, and biotechnology, applying cutting-edge techniques to address pressing global challenges such as infectious diseases, environmental protection, and industrial biotechnology.

The Kenyan RRC will benefit from ICGEB’s extensive research network and funding programmes, ensuring that local scientists have access to world-class training and resources.

With more than 400 researchers working in ICGEB laboratories worldwide, the centre will facilitate knowledge exchange, elevating Kenya’s standing in global scientific research.

Looking Ahead

Kenya’s selection to host the first ICGEB RRC in Africa is a testament to the country’s growing influence in scientific research and biotechnology.

The facility at Egerton University will drive advancements in genetic engineering, bolster food security, and strengthen regional research capabilities.

As Kenya continues to embrace cutting-edge technology, the ICGEB RRC stands as a symbol of progress, paving the way for a brighter, more sustainable future in biotechnology and agricultural innovation.