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OUCRU researchers are proud to be involved in HECTOR – an interdisciplinary, multi-national research consortium which is investigating the genetic factors that contribute to antibiotic resistance.
Professor Edwine Barasa Appointed as Executive Director of the KEMRI-Wellcome Research Programme
7 October 2025
Professor Edwine Barasa has been appointed as the Executive Director of the KEMRI-Wellcome Research Programme (KWRP), following the completion of a highly competitive recruitment process conducted by the Programme’s partners: the University of Oxford, KEMRI and Wellcome.
From Evidence to Impact: Transforming Sickle Cell Care in Kenya
5 October 2025
Sickle cell anaemia is a genetic condition causing red blood cells to become sickle-shaped, leading to painful complications and other health issues. In Kenya, it is common in malaria-prone regions, where the sickle cell trait offers some protection. Ongoing research and a long-standing clinic in Kilifi have improved survival rates, with more adults living full lives. Collaboration with local health authorities and the Ministry of Health supports early diagnosis, care guidelines, and expanded regional services.
New partnership aims to tackle antibiotic overuse in African children’s hospitals
1 October 2025
PediSEP-1, a new study funded by the EDCTP3 Horizon programme, has launched to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in African hospitals. The initiative introduces a risk-differentiated care approach identifying low-risk children who can be safely discharged early with minimal or no antibiotics supported by targeted parental education and ‘virtual ward’ follow up by phone. The project seeks to reduce antibiotic overuse and AMR transmission, and increase system efficiency
First volunteers receive Rift Valley fever vaccine in Kenya Phase II trial
15 August 2025
On 8 July 2025, researchers at the KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme began the Phase II trial of the ChAdOx1 RVF vaccine in Kilifi, Kenya—the most advanced Rift Valley fever vaccine study in an outbreak-prone region. Led by Oxford University and funded by CEPI, this milestone brings us closer to a licensed vaccine for protecting lives and livelihoods.
Severe nurse shortages in Kenya undermine newborn care, despite advancements
14 August 2025
A multi-disciplinary study by KEMRI-Wellcome Trust, Harnessing Innovation in Global Health for Quality Care (HIGH-Q), has revealed how workforce issues influence the quality of care in newborn units. The research highlighted the effect of severe nurse staffing shortages in Kenyan hospitals as a major obstacle to providing quality care for newborns.
New research finds that ivermectin could help control malaria transmission
24 July 2025
A collaborative new study involving KEMRI-Wellcome Trust researchers has highlighted a new way to control malaria transmission. The study found that ivermectin, a drug normally used for neglected tropical diseases, led to a 26% reduction in new malaria infections among children aged 5-15.
Africa launches landmark consortium to transform health research with longitudinal data
25 June 2025
The African Population Cohorts Consortium (APCC) has formally launched, uniting over 40 population cohorts from 16 countries. With £4 million funding from Wellcome, the initiative aims to harness longitudinal data to advance health equity, shape policy, and strengthen scientific leadership across Africa, focusing on ethics, data and impact.
Nurturing Tomorrow’s Research Leaders: A Celebration of Mentorship and Discovery
3 June 2025
The KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Schools Engagement Programme (SEP) celebrated the achievements of its School Leavers Attachment Scheme (SLAS) through a poster event. Twelve Kilifi students explored real-world research, mentored by experts. SEP’s immersive, hands-on experience builds scientific skills, confidence, and curiosity, inspiring the next generation of researchers and future science leaders.
Ambitious project to develop low-cost genome sequencing for pathogens
28 May 2025
A low-cost genome sequencing technique that was used by thousands of laboratories globally to spot COVID-19 variants will be extended to cover all pathogens, in an ambitious new Wellcome Trust-funded project launched today. The ARTIC-2 project is led by the University of Birmingham and brings together researchers from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ghana and Kenya with expertise in responding to numerous viral threats using genomic surveillance, including recent outbreaks of Ebola virus and Mpox in Africa.
Rethinking Autism: Bridging gaps in care, culture and understanding
20 May 2025
Autism Spectrum Disorder is a lifelong condition affecting communication, behaviour, and sensory experiences. In Kenya, stigma, misinformation, and limited access to care hinder early diagnosis and support. Cultural beliefs and lack of specialist services further challenge families. KWTRP NeuroDev Project is improving understanding through genetic research, while new interventions like caregiver training are being trialled. Experts call for greater awareness, early screening, and inclusive policies to support autistic individuals and their families.
Researchers awarded Associate Professorships
20 May 2025
We are delighted to announce that Abdirahman Abdi and Alice Norton have been awarded the Associate Professor title, in recognition of their research achievements, contribution to teaching, and contribution to the general work of the Nuffield Department of Medicine.
Engaging stakeholders to build a Kenyan learning health system success in Vice-Chancellor’s Awards
20 May 2025
Work led by a NDM Centre for Global Health Research (CGHR) and KEMRI-Wellcome team `Engaging stakeholders to build a Kenyan learning health system’ was recognised as winner of the Vice-Chancellor’s Research Engagement Award on Thursday 15 May where the team was represented by Professor Mike English.
Enhancing neonatal care in Kenya: insights from the HIGH-Q exchange stakeholder forum
6 May 2025
The Harnessing Innovation in Global Health for Quality Care Exchange (The HIGH-Q Exchange) held a stakeholder meeting during the Kenya Paediatric Association conference between 8th and 11th April 2025, in Mombasa. The project shared key findings on how health systems can go beyond training and equipment to deliver high-quality newborn care. The meeting provided a platform for reflection on how to enhance the quality of neonatal care in Kenyan hospitals, focusing on the role of Ward Assistants in improving care delivery.
KEMRI signs landmark partnership with Wellcome and Oxford
3 April 2025
The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) has officially entered into a seven-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Wellcome, a UK-based charitable foundation, and the University of Oxford. The £91 million agreement was signed at the Wellcome headquarters in London, marking a significant boost for medical research and training in Kenya.
Lower-dose yellow fever vaccine as effective as the current standard
20 March 2025
In a recent study, researchers at the KEMRI Wellcome Trust Research Programme in Kenya have discovered that a low-dose of the yellow fever vaccine is as effective as the current standard dose.
Breaking Barriers: Dr Caroline Tigoi’s Journey in Science and Research
11 February 2025
The science field has largely been male-dominated from time immemorial and women in science are increasingly making their mark and breaking barriers through conducting and leading various ground-breaking research. The International Day of Women and Girls in Science is an annual observance in recognition of the critical role played by women and girls in science and the promotion of their full and equal access to participation in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics fields. At KWTRP we celebrate, Dr Caroline Tigoi a dedicated scientist whose journey into microbiology and infectious disease research has not only advanced medical science but also inspired the next generation of women in STEM.
Launch of largest-ever study tracking chikungunya burden in East Africa
13 December 2024
A team of scientists in the UK, Kenya and Tanzania will soon find out the extent to which chikungunya, a debilitating mosquito-borne disease causing large outbreaks in Asia and South America, is also affecting countries in East Africa.
KEMRI renews collaboration with Oxford University and Wellcome Trust
29 November 2024
The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) has signed a seven-year memorandum of agreement with the Wellcome Trust and the University of Oxford. Under this collaboration, Wellcome has awarded £91 million (KES 15 billion) to support research over the next seven years. KEMRI have been collaborating with the Wellcome Trust and the University of Oxford on improving health through research for over 35 years.
Rift Valley fever vaccine to enter Phase II clinical trials in Kenya
14 October 2024
A promising human vaccine candidate against the potentially deadly Rift Valley fever, a mosquito-borne disease affecting countries across Africa, is set to begin Phase II trials in Kenya. This is the most advanced stage of testing a human Rift Valley fever vaccine has reached in an outbreak-prone area to date. A team of scientists at the Nuffield Department of Medicine and the KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme will lead the $3.7m trial, funded by the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI).
Improving survival rates of children with sickle cell disease in Kenya
19 September 2024
Research on sickle cell disease conducted by KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme (KWTRP) at the Nuffield Department of Medicine shows significant progress in understanding how to improve survival rates and quality of life for those living with the condition.