Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), through its Institute of Biotechnology Research (IBR), has unveiled a cutting-edge Bioinformatics Laboratory, marking a major milestone in the advancement of genetic research and innovation in Kenya.
The facility, established under the collaborative research project “Directed Crop and Poultry Breeding Programs for Improved Genetic Bioinformatics Research and Development in Kenya (C-BIRD)” between JKUAT and Hasselt University, is now fully equipped and operational.
Speaking on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Victoria Wambui Ngumi, the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Research, Production and Extension, Prof. Jackson Kwanza, described the new facility as “a state-of-the-art hub designed to advance research in genetics, bioinformatics, and artificial intelligence, with the power to drive innovation in poultry and crop breeding, strengthen our scientific output, and contribute meaningfully to Kenya’s food and nutrition security.”
He further emphasized that the lab’s true significance would be measured by its ability to translate knowledge into practical solutions for farmers, breeders, and policymakers to empower young scientists, and harness innovation to address pressing challenges of food security and sustainable agriculture.
Prof. Kwanza noted that the lab will enable researchers and students to analyze massive datasets in genomics, proteomics, and related fields, thereby fast-tracking the development of disease-resistant, climate-resilient crop varieties and improved poultry breeds.
Dr. Simon Appeltans of Hasselt University expressed optimism that the new laboratory would spur a rise in project applications and collaborative initiatives. He noted that by leveraging the state-of-the-art infrastructure, JKUAT could position itself as a central hub in the region, attracting more funding opportunities and deepening partnerships with other universities.
According to the Principal Investigator of the Project, Dr. Johnstonne Neondo reiterated that the lab will also serve as a training ground for the next generation of bioinformaticians in Kenya and the region, equipping them with the advanced skills needed to harness the power of big data in life sciences.
The lab is expected to generate knowledge that informs agricultural policy, spurs agribusiness innovation, and contributes directly to national development goals under the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).