Ruto reveals plan to establish private research laboratory at his farm

President William Ruto speaking during the award of university charters to the Kenya Advanced Institute of Science and Technology and Kenya Medical Research Institute universities at State House, Nairobi, on May 14, 2026. / PCS

President William Ruto has revealed plans to establish a private research laboratory at his farm, saying Kenya’s future depends on investing in scientific research, innovation and knowledge creation.

Ruto disclosed the plans on Thursday during the award of university charters to the Kenya Advanced Institute of Science and Technology and Kenya Medical Research Institute universities at State House, Nairobi.

The President made the remarks after Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale jokingly invited him to join KEMRI as a researcher after retiring from office in 2032.

“I know the CS for Health has said that I should consider taking up research at this great institution, and it is true; some of my classmates already joined KEMRI after we graduated, and I would be very happy to join some of my classmates that are there,” Ruto said.

The Head of State said the elevation of KEMRI into a fully chartered university institution would help strengthen scientific research and create knowledge relevant to the country’s healthcare needs.

“But let me say this, I am very happy that finally a great institution like KEMRI has now been elevated to a level where they can produce more scientists and create new knowledge in the space that is relevant to the health of the nation,” he said.

Ruto then disclosed that he had already started developing a private laboratory at his farm, adding that equipment for the facility had already been acquired.

“I am already developing a lab on my farm. I have got some equipment which is on its way for a lab at my farm because I believe the future of a nation is making sure that research becomes front and centre of everything,” he said.

The President said research and innovation remain critical in improving knowledge, advancing healthcare and strengthening national development.

“So that we not only keep on improving on the knowledge and the experience, but we also begin to share the knowledge with others,” he added.

Duale described KEMRI as one of the leading research institutions in the region, noting that the award of a university charter marked a major milestone in Kenya’s scientific and medical research sector.

“KEMRI is the home of researchers and scientists, and we will welcome you when you retire because you are a scientist,” Duale told the President.

The Health CS said KEMRI hosts some of the region’s most advanced laboratories, including high-level biosecurity and polio testing facilities developed through partnerships with global organisations such as the World Health Organization, Africa CDC and other international research institutions.

“KEMRI has become one of the best regional hubs in terms of innovation, diagnostics, therapeutics and vaccine production,” Duale said.

He noted that the newly chartered KEMRI University would focus on postgraduate and advanced scientific training to maintain high standards of research and innovation.

The event underscored the government’s push to position science, technology and research at the centre of Kenya’s development agenda, particularly in healthcare, innovation and higher education.