KEMRI Launches DNA Lab and Culture Media Production
Nairobi, Kenya-
25 Feb 2015
-The
Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) officially
launched its
Culture Media Production facility and Human Identification Laboratory
during a ceremony that included presentation of ISO certification at the
headquarters in Nairobi. The triple achievement celebration was graced
by various speeches from key hosts and guests including, Prof. Solomon
Mpoke, the director KEMRI, chairperson Dr Lilian Apadet, US ambassador
to Kenya, Robert F. Godec and Dr. James Kimotho, head of production
department among others.
KEMRI collaborated with various public
and private institutions with US and Japan supporting development of
Rapid Test kits for yellow fever and Rift Valley fever, training of
staff, equipment maintenance, calibration and establishment of quality
management systems and infrastructure development.
Prof. Mpoke
said that “we are very happy to celebrate yet another milestone and the
DNA lab will help identify those who burn beyond recognition or loose
physical identification through accidents.” Dr. Kimotho said that, “KEMRI
has products development is one of the flagship projects of the
institute and R&D resulting in health products and services can be
potential drivers for achievement of Kenya’s economic development
goals.”
The main objective of the launching of the Human
Identification Laboratory is to support the current national capacity to
conduct the Human Identification tests in forensic analysis and
paternity and maternity testing in Kenya. This will reduce cases of DNA
samples being sent abroad for analysis which is quite expensive. Other
objectives are; ensuring quality control, partnership with other labs,
and ensuring that the developed products are used in the region and
beyond.
Dr. Apadet promised that KEMRI will ensure that quality
management is proactive and will be achieved by ensuring that management
is carried out by highly trained personnel. US ambassador H.E Robert F.
Godec said that, “There is so much we can do together and the launch of
these facilities will provide solutions through evidence-based
research. The products from KEMRI will be 50% cheaper than the imported
products."
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