The Kenya Medical Research Institute launched its first human DNA analysis laboratory on 24 February.
The Human Identification DNA lab in Nairobi aims to strengthen the country’s capacity to carry out forensic and paternity/maternity DNA testing. It will provide researchers across Kenya with easy access to DNA testing facilities.
Previously Kenya has sent DNA samples to foreign laboratories for testing. “This is not only expensive, but time-wasting and affects the country’s reputation in development of science and technology,” said James Macharia, the Cabinet secretary for health.
"Many laboratories in Kenya lack adequate equipment and quality management systems to guarantee quality results. As a result, various infectious diseases such as typhoid are not diagnosed early enough as prescribed by good clinical practice requirements," he added.
KEMRI collaborated on the establishment of the lab with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Defense Threat Reduction Agency, both from the US, and the Japan International Cooperation Agency.
KEMRI is a national body that carries out health research in Kenya.