The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) has launched a groundbreaking Ksh.516 million initiative to transform women’s health research and innovation across Africa.
The three-year programme, titled Leadership for Innovation and Excellence in Accelerating Research on Women’s Health (LEA-WH), is funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and will officially commence in January 2026.
According to KEMRI, the flagship initiative aims to strengthen Africa’s research leadership in women’s health by nurturing a new generation of scientists and innovators. These researchers will develop locally driven solutions to tackle health challenges that disproportionately affect women across the continent.
“The LEA-WH Programme represents KEMRI’s continued commitment to building scientific leadership that is inclusive, innovative, and African-led,” said Prof. Elijah Songok, KEMRI Director General. “By empowering scientists to lead groundbreaking research and innovation, we are investing in the future of Africa’s health and development.”
Through the programme, KEMRI envisions bringing five to ten innovative products to market testing, supporting up to ten startups, facilitating multiple patent applications, and helping 20–50 percent of programme scholars secure research and development grants.
Additionally, the initiative seeks to attract between Ksh.386 million and Ksh.643 million in additional funding for innovation and research.
An annual ScienceX Africa Summit will be established to promote mentorship, collaboration, and knowledge exchange among health innovators. The programme will also feature a fellowship component in collaboration with the United States National Academy of Medicine.
“Our vision is to cultivate a vibrant ecosystem where African researchers and innovators can lead in designing and implementing transformative solutions for women’s health,” said Prof. Elizabeth Anne Bukusi, the Programme Director.
The LEA-WH Advisory Council, chaired by Prof. Songok, will oversee the initiative, supported by three key departments: Curriculum Development (Dr. Martin Bundi), Research and Development (Prof. Nelly Mugo), and Leadership Development (Dr. Rose Bosire).
