CS Health Inaugurates Board of Directors at KIPRE, a Biomedical Research Pioneer Shaping Healthcare for Over 60 Years

Nairobi, Kenya - 23rd January 2024 - Kenya Institute of Primate Research (KIPRE) marked a significant milestone on January 23, 2024, with the inauguration of its Board of Directors by Nakhumicha S. Wafula, EGH, the Cabinet Secretary of the Ministry of Health.

 Formerly known as the Institute of Primate Research (IPR), KIPRE has been a trailblazer in biomedical research since 1958, operating under the Ministry of Health's State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards.

 The transition from IPR to KIPRE, initiated through legal notice Number 273 of 2017 and executive order number 1 of 2023, solidifies the government's commitment to building domestic capacity for healthcare security, aligning with the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda.

 During the inauguration, CS Nakhumicha highlighted the institution's potential in human capacity and research milestones. She emphasized the benefits of the upcoming Social Health Authority (SHA), addressing hospital bills and funeral expenses for Kenyan citizens.

The CS stressed the impact of non-communicable diseases on hospital bed occupancy and healing duration, advocating for lifestyle and diet adjustments. She praised KIPRE's approved HR instruments and urged swift action in hiring the right personnel for optimal functionality.

The CS engaged with over 100 staff members, toured the facility, and lauded KIPRE's contributions, including reproductive health products and preparation for emerging diseases.

 KIPRE's role in producing locally-based snake anti-venom to address the prevalent issue of snakebites in East Africa and beyond was highlighted.

This visit inspires KIPRE staff to contribute zealously to the Universal Health Coverage Agenda. The institution stands poised to make significant strides in healthcare research and development under the new Board of Directors chaired by Chairman Prof. Josephat Mulimba.