By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
The Science for Africa
Foundation (SFA Foundation) and Kenya’s National Research Fund (NRF Kenya) have
signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish Grand Challenges Kenya,
a national platform designed to support researchers and innovators in developing
solutions to the country’s priority health and development challenges.
The agreement marks a
significant step towards formalising a Grand Challenges platform in Kenya
following several years of engagement between the two institutions and other
stakeholders.
Under the partnership, the
SFA Foundation, the State Department of Science, Research and Innovation and
NRF Kenya will work over the coming months towards the formal launch of Grand
Challenges Kenya.
The platform is expected to
provide a mechanism for supporting Kenyan researchers and innovators working on
ambitious solutions to complex health and development challenges, while
strengthening opportunities for locally led research and innovation.
The initiative will form
part of a growing network of African-led Grand Challenges platforms focused on
ensuring that research and innovation addressing the continent’s priorities are
conceived, developed and supported within Africa.
The partners said the
establishment of Grand Challenges Kenya will also create opportunities for
additional organisations to participate in building and expanding the platform.
Through collaboration among
research institutions, government agencies, innovators and development
partners, the initiative is expected to strengthen Kenya’s research and
innovation ecosystem and support the development of solutions with potential
national and regional impact.
