KEMRI Unveils Expanded Polio Laboratory to Bolster Regional Disease Surveillance and Genomic Sequencing

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Nairobi, Kenya — The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) has officially inaugurated its Expanded Polio Laboratory at its headquarters in Nairobi, marking a transformative moment in the region’s capacity for disease surveillance and response.

The high-level event was presided over by Health Cabinet Secretary Hon. Aden Duale, accompanied by Principal Secretary Dr. Ouma Oluga, and attended by representatives from the World Health Organization (WHO), the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and other health sector stakeholders.
In his welcoming remarks, KEMRI leadership underscored the significance of the facility as more than a building — but rather, a legacy investment representing years of vision, dedication, and international collaboration. The Expanded Polio Laboratory is hosted by the Centre for Virus Research (CVR) and will serve both national and inter-country surveillance needs, covering nations including Somalia, Djibouti, Eritrea, and the Comoros.

"For over two decades, KEMRI has been the backbone of polio virus diagnostics in the region. Today, we take a major step forward in eliminating the delays that once slowed our outbreak response capabilities," said the KEMRI representative. "Previously, samples had to be shipped to South Africa or the U.S. for sequencing—leading to delays of over 35 days. This new facility brings that timeline down dramatically and positions Kenya as a genomic sequencing hub in East Africa."

The lab's expansion was made possible through technical and financial support from WHO and the Gates Foundation, who were praised for their sustained partnership. Once fully accredited, the facility will enhance in-country capacity for genomic sequencing, not only for polioviruses but for multiple pathogens including MPOX, measles, rubella, and enteric viruses—transforming it into a multi-pathogen genomic platform.

During the inauguration, CS Duale acknowledged KEMRI's historic role in Kenya’s health landscape, particularly its contributions to past and present epidemics such as HIV/AIDS, malaria, Ebola, Marburg, and most recently, COVID-19. The Institute played a pivotal role in establishing testing infrastructure and genomic sequencing for SARS-CoV-2, enabling data-driven government responses that saved lives.

“KEMRI is not just a national asset—it is a continental leader in public health science,” said CS Duale. “This new laboratory reflects our shared commitment to preparedness, innovation, and a polio-free future.”

The KEMRI leadership also noted the Institute’s deep involvement in shaping health policy, with 68 of its staff participating in over 188 national and international technical working groups. Nearly 38% of those efforts are within the Ministry of Health, further demonstrating the Institute’s central role in health governance and decision-making.

Importantly, the Expanded Polio Laboratory meets International Health Regulations (IHR) and builds Kenya’s resilience to future pandemics. The Ministry of Public Works and Housing was recognized for its technical input into the design and construction of the facility.

KEMRI pledged to ensure the sustainability of the laboratory through local resource mobilization and urged the Ministry of Health to continue supporting the Institute’s work through coordination with key stakeholders, including the Kenya National Public Health Institute (KNPHI).

“As KEMRI, we remain committed to advancing public health through cutting-edge science and innovation,” the spokesperson concluded. “This laboratory is not just about polio—it's about building a healthier, more secure future for Kenya and the region.”


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