August 17, 2023
By Kurian Musa
In a groundbreaking development, Egerton University has been selected to establish the upcoming International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Regional Research Centre (ICGEB RRC). This achievement marks a significant milestone for the university and the broader scientific community in Africa.
Speaking at a sensitization workshop to create awareness about the establishment of the ICGEB RRC at Egerton University, the Vice Chancellor of Egerton University, Professor Isaac Kibwage expressed his excitement about the establishment of the ICGEB RRC. He emphasized that the center would serve as a beacon of hope for aspiring scientists, providing them with access to cutting-edge research in genetic engineering and biotechnology.
Prof. Kibwage extended his gratitude to the Director General of the National Commission for Science, Technology and Innovation, Professor Walter O. Oyawa, for his unwavering support in realizing this ambitious project.
Egerton University Vice Chancellor Prof Isaac Kibwage speaking during a capacity building workshop at ARC Hotel, Egerton University on August 16, 2023, ARC Hotel.The workshop aimed to develop comprehensive plans and programs for the RRC's research management structures and systems. (Photo: Kurian Musa/Egerton University)
The workshop aimed to develop comprehensive plans and programs for the RRC's research management structures and systems.
Professor Isaac Kibwage said: “The establishment of the ICGEB RRC represents a beacon of hope for aspiring scientists. The Centre will offer a gateway to cutting-edge research in genetic engineering and biotechnology.” He went on, “We are grateful to have government support among other state agencies offering advice and technical information. Through a competitive bid we managed to win this funded opportunity to set up a unique continental Biotechnology and Genetic lab second after the one in China. We look forward to cutting edge equipment and technology being imported to this region.”
In her welcoming remarks, Egerton University’s Director of Research and Extension Prof. Nancy Mungai opined that the news about the Biotech Centre has been received among the faculty with warmth and much admiration. “We are happy and ready for this. It is a boost to research and putting the University at the global stage,” she said,
The International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), a unique intergovernmental organization with biotech labs in Italy, India, and South Africa, also played a crucial role in selecting Egerton University as the host for its new research center. This move is seen as a significant investment in Africa's scientific capabilities and a testament to the region's growing prominence in the field.
Guo Song, a Professor and Associate Director at the Plant Biotechnology Resource & Outreach Center at Michigan State University, USA, was acknowledged for his continuous consultations and collaborations with Professor Josiah Omolo, the lead scientist at Egerton University. Their collaborative efforts were instrumental in bringing the research center to fruition.
The establishment of the ICGEB RRC was secured through a competitive bidding process, with government support and advice from various state agencies. The research center is anticipated to introduce cutting-edge equipment and technologies to the region, further enhancing Africa's scientific research capabilities.
The sensitization workshop held on August 16, 2023, featured a hybrid mode of participation and covered various aspects of the ICGEB RRC. Sessions included an overview of the center, research management structures, joint research funding proposals, and capacity-building for institutional managers and scientists. Speakers at the workshop highlighted the significance of setting up the first biotechnology and genetic research center in Africa, second only to the one in China.
In a statement from Geneva, Professor Walter O. Oyawa, the Director General of the National Commission for Science, Technology and Innovation, emphasized the importance of the African center, the second of its kind after China. He commended Professor Kibwage for advocating for funding and support for the center, especially during challenging economic times in the country.
Professor Oyawa underscored the dual use of technology, noting that global concerns extend to the safety of products on supermarket shelves and the potential for biological weapons in the form of food. He emphasized the importance of focusing not only on plant safety but also on human safety.
Egerton University Vice Chancellor Prof Isaac Kibwage (Right), Prof. Joshua Ogendo (Left), Prof. Guo Song (Michigan State University) Centre during the Capacity building workshop. (Photo: Kurian Musa/Egerton University)
With universities offering similar training areas supported by the government, Professor Oyawa highlighted the significance of institutional linkages. He pointed out that Masinde Muliro University, supported by the government, is set to launch a course on Biosafety starting September 2023. Professor Oyawa praised the efforts of Professor Isaac Kibwage and Professor Josiah Omolo in making the regional center a reality at Egerton University.
Professor Oyawa also mentioned his personal connection to Egerton University and its role in his academic journey. He discussed the regulatory framework and the need to balance innovation with safety, highlighting the Biosafety Act that led to the establishment of the Biosafety Authority.
The workshop concluded with updates on the sector's status, including the lifting of the ban on genetically modified organisms (GMO) in Kenya. BT Cotton farming was reported to be ongoing, while BT Maize variety release awaited court-approved seed distribution to farmers.
Among the distinguished speakers at the workshop were Dr. Lawrence Banks, the Director General of ICGEB Italy, Dr. Shams Yazdani, Professor Ramesh V. Sonti, the Director of ICGEB New Delhi, India, and Professor Josiah Omolo of Egerton University.
The establishment of the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Regional Research Centre at Egerton University heralds a new era of scientific research and collaboration, promising to bring Africa to the forefront of genetic engineering and biotechnology advancements.
National Biosafety Authority Director General Roy Mugira in his contributions stated,“We want to be a key participant in this space of the global community from 2006, that is why the biosafety Act was developed which birthed the Biosafety Authority.”
He challenged the University to set up a biosafety committee to steer the University forward in research and technology. This will help to advise the university from time to time as it advances its growth in biotech and genetic science.
