Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) is strengthening its commitment to champion the wellbeing of older persons through partnerships and evidence-based research, as part of ongoing efforts to establish a Centre for Healthy Ageing (CEFHA).

In a meeting held on November 6, 2025 at the maincampus, JKUAT hosted representatives from the Suqoon Kenya Foundation who paid a courtesy call to the Dean, School of Medicine, Prof Everisto Opondo to explore areas of collaboration in promoting healthy ageing, policy development, and community-based support for senior citizens.

Prof. Opondo, reaffirmed the University’s readiness to collaborate on research and advocacy initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for older persons.

“The University is keen on developing specific areas of collaboration and a structured framework to ensure that our engagement with partners yields meaningful and impactful results,” said Dr. Opondo.

Representing Suqoon Kenya Foundation, Dr. Tasheem Yamani highlighted the urgent need for data-driven interventions in healthy ageing, noting that Kenya still lacks adequate evidence to guide effective policy and program development. She further emphasized on the importance of creating awareness around geriatrics the branch of medicine focused on the health and care of older adults to ensure that ageing and elder care become integral parts of Kenya’s health and education systems.

Lydia Makena, also from Soquoon, emphasized the importance of partnerships that raise awareness and enhance public understanding of ageing. The two institutions agreed to develop a Memorandum of Understanding to guide collaboration in areas such as research, policy development, awareness creation.

Soquoon Kenya Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing mental health, wellness, and social inclusion, with a growing focus on programs that promote healthy and dignified ageing through community awareness, advocacy, and support initiatives.