Nairobi: Kenya will soon be hosting the first International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Regional Research Centre (ICGEB RRC) in Africa following the handing over of the centre construction site at Egerton University to the Project Implementation contractor. The multi-million facility will include research laboratories equipped for genetic engineering and biotechnology, specialized spaces for molecular plant pathology, crop breeding, and genetic bio-fortification studies.
According to Kenya News Agency, Egerton University’s Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academics, Research, and Extension Professor Bernard Aduda assured that the facility will secure biosafety level 2 (BSL2) certification. This certification ensures compliance with global biosafety protocols, enabling researchers to conduct advanced studies safely and securely. Selected by the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) Board of Governors in 2016, Kenya will host its first Regional Research Centre (RRC) in Africa, complementing the centre in China.
Professor Aduda, who also chairs the Project Contract Implementation Team (PCIT), noted that the ICGEB Regional Research Centre will be based at Egerton University’s main campus in Njoro Sub-County. This research centre will be the second of its kind globally after China’s and will specialize in food safety, molecular plant breeding, entomology, development of molecular diagnostic tools, and bioprospecting for bio-pesticides and bioactive compounds.
Professor Aduda highlighted the research centre’s potential to transform scientific research and regional development in East Africa. The centre will focus on combating crop diseases through molecular plant pathology research, investigating pathogen infection mechanisms to develop disease-resistant crops, and reducing reliance on harmful chemicals. The deputy VC added that the centre will enhance food security by employing marker-assisted selection and Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS) to facilitate the breeding of high-yielding, climate-resilient crop varieties.
During the 22nd session of the ICGEB Board of Governors in Cape Town in 2016, the possibility of establishing an ICGEB RRC in Africa was explored. The Annual General Meeting in December 2020 resolved that Kenya would host the RRC. Subsequently, NACOSTI Director General Professor Walter Oyawa was tasked with identifying the institution to host the ICGEB RRC, culminating in Egerton University’s selection.
Professor Josiah Omolo, Principal Investigator of the project, indicated that bio-fortification initiatives at the Centre will address hidden hunger by improving the nutritional value of staple foods such as maize and cassava. This effort aims to ensure better public health outcomes. The Centre will also advance food safety through molecular diagnostics by identifying biological hazards, mycotoxins, and chemical residues in food, strengthening agricultural value chains.
Professor Omolo emphasized that the facility will build regional capacity by training scientists and collaborating with universities to enhance genetic engineering and biotechnology expertise. By improving agricultural productivity and creating jobs, the ICGEB RRC aims to attract investments and foster sustainable development. Policymakers will benefit from evidence-based research to inform agricultural and biotechnology policies, ensuring responsible and ethical practices.
The establishment of the Regional Research Centre in Kenya comes at an opportune time, as biotechnology development remains a top priority for enhancing food security and promoting sustainable industrial processes. Professor Omolo noted that developing herbicide-tolerant crops would save farmers time, allowing them to focus on other productive agricultural activities that promote food security.
He underscored the importance of sustainable funding, strategic partnerships, and continuous innovation for the long-term success of the ICGEB RRC. The Centre aims to position itself as a leading biotechnology hub in Africa through government and external funding, financial support from the Government of Kenya, international grants, and ICGEB’s global network.
ICGEB, established as a special project of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) in 1987, became fully autonomous in 1994 and now incorporates over 65 Member States. It dedicates its resources to advanced research and training in fields like vaccine development, molecular biology, and biotechnology, and aims to strengthen members’ research capabilities through training, funding programs, and advisory services.