Science PS visits ICIPE, calls for scaling up research-driven innovation

By:  Kanto Kai Okanta

The Principal Secretary for Science, Research and Innovation, Prof. Shaukat Abdulrazak, has visited the International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (ICIPE), reaffirming government support for science-led innovation and urging closer collaboration to translate research into impactful products.

During the engagement, Prof. Abdulrazak held discussions with ICIPE Director General, Abdou Tenkouano, and the institution’s research teams, who presented ongoing work across key thematic areas including food security, human health, environmental sustainability, and capacity building.

The teams highlighted advances in sustainable agriculture through insect-based innovations and biological pest control approaches, alongside research focused on controlling insect-borne diseases such as malaria, sleeping sickness, and leishmaniasis. Environmental sustainability initiatives, including biodiversity protection and ecosystem management, were also showcased.

Prof. Abdulrazak commended the institution for its progress in translating scientific research into practical solutions, emphasizing the importance of scaling up research outputs to enhance socio-economic impact. He further underscored the need to strengthen partnerships within Kenya’s research and innovation ecosystem.

The Principal Secretary also stressed the importance of promoting public understanding of science, noting that broader engagement is critical to maximizing the benefits of scientific advancements. He assured the institution of continued governance and policy support to facilitate research, innovation, and institutional strengthening.

ICIPE is widely recognized as one of Africa’s leading scientific institutions, playing a central role in advancing insect science, bio-innovation, and capacity development across the continent.