By: Kanto
Kai Okanta
Kenya is strengthening
collaboration with development partners and research stakeholders to accelerate
the implementation of its Science, Research and Innovation (SRI) Blueprint and
advance the country’s transition into a knowledge-driven economy.
Principal Secretary for the
State Department for Science, Research and Innovation, Prof. Shaukat
Abdulrazak, highlighted the government’s commitment to building a coordinated
and impactful research ecosystem during an engagement with development partners
and funders.
The meeting focused on
strategies to enhance collaboration, strengthen research capacity and align
investments with Kenya’s national development priorities.
Prof. Abdulrazak said the
government is working to break institutional silos, promote stronger
partnerships and channel resources towards research initiatives that deliver
practical solutions to societal challenges.
He noted that science,
technology and innovation will remain central to Kenya’s post-Vision 2030
development agenda as the country seeks to position itself as a globally
competitive, innovation-led economy.
The Principal Secretary
called on development partners to align their support with the five strategic
pillars of the SRI Blueprint, emphasising the need to translate research
outcomes into solutions that improve livelihoods and support sustainable economic
growth.
The engagement brought
together representatives from key research and development organisations,
including the African Population and Health Research Center, Science for Africa
Foundation, Gates Foundation, FCDO Services and the British Council, among others.
Prof. Abdulrazak expressed
appreciation for continued collaboration from partners and stressed the
importance of deeper cooperation to expand innovation opportunities, strengthen
research institutions and drive socio-economic transformation across Kenya.
