Kenya and UK celebrate 60 Years of Wellcome Trust’s impact in health research

By Robert Mutasi

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi graced the 60 years of impactful work in Kenya by Wellcome Trust together with other distinguished guests.

Wellcome Trust marked the milestone on Thursday evening alongside global health leaders, ambassadors, and scholars who acknowledged its contribution to health research and innovation.

The celebration was attended by distinguished guests, including Hon. Dr. Julia Gillard, Chair of the Wellcome Trust and former Prime Minister of Australia; British High Commissioner Neil Wigan; and Prof. Irene Tracey, a prominent academic leader.

The event highlighted the transformative partnership between the Wellcome Trust, Kenya Medical Research Institute, and Oxford University, which has been instrumental in addressing Kenya's health challenges.

"This partnership has been instrumental in the fight against malaria, HIV/AIDS, and other health challenges, saving thousands of lives and propelling transformational health research," Mudavadi said in his address.

He added that the partnership has fortified Kenya's health systems and enhanced African scientific talent to meet emerging challenges from pandemics and infectious diseases.

The Wellcome Trust has played a key role in developing Kenya's position as a hub for health innovation and research.

Its collaboration with KEMRI and Oxford University for many years has led to landmark studies, the development of effective treatments, and capacity-building that empowers local scientists and researchers.

"The partnership has grown African scientific excellence and enhanced health systems," Mudavadi observed. "It is a collaboration that serves as an example to the rest of the world on how to advance public health."

The event was attended by ambassadors, high commissioners, and other distinguished guests, marking the international significance of this milestone.

The achievements of the last sixty years and the future of Kenya-UK collaboration in health and innovation were discussed.

Looking ahead, Mudavadi expressed optimism about the continued partnership, emphasizing the shared goal of improving global health outcomes.

“We look forward to further strengthening Kenya-UK collaboration in health and innovation,” he remarked, raising a toast to the achievements made over the past 60 years.