The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has signed an agreement with the Kenyan government to provide grant aid of up to Yen 3.1 billion (US$20 million) to strengthen the research capacity of Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI).

The project includes the construction of new research complexes, the procurement and installation of equipment for research and testing, and the provision of emergency generators.

The planned implementation period for the project is 42 months, including detailed design work and the bidding process.

The consulting services under the project will include detailed design, bidding assistance, construction and procurement supervision, as well as training for the proper operation and maintenance of the facilities and equipment.

During President William Ruto’s visit to Japan earlier this year, a memorandum of understanding was inked to support the construction of a high-level laboratory complex including biocontainment laboratories for disease surveillance and drugs, vaccines and diagnostic kit design, discovery and development at KEMRI.

JICA has been supporting KEMRI for more than 40 years, from the basic design study for its establishment which was completed in 1981.