University of Nairobi launches new laboratory to boost food security research
Date: 2026-03-27
By: Nana Appiah Acquaye
Kenya
has taken a significant step in strengthening its research and innovation
capacity with the launch of a new Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS)
and specialised food testing laboratory at the Faculty of Agriculture,
University of Nairobi.
The facility was officially launched by Professor Shaukat Abdulrazak, Principal Secretary at the State Department for Science, Research and Innovation, who highlighted its role in advancing scientific research, innovation, and training within the university and beyond.
The
laboratory is part of the “Empowering Tomorrow's Food Security Leaders:
Strengthening Higher Education Capacity for Sustainable Food Systems in Kenya
and Mozambique” (Food Leader) Project, a collaborative initiative involving the
University of Nairobi, the University of Helsinki, and Universidade Lúrio.
Officials
say the GC/MS technology will support critical work across multiple sectors,
including agriculture, environmental science, pharmaceuticals, and food safety,
by enabling advanced analysis and testing capabilities.
The
project’s Kenya component is led by Catherine Kunyanga, with a focus on
strengthening higher education systems and equipping future professionals with
practical and research-based skills.
The
new facility is expected to enhance both research output and teaching
methodologies, providing students and researchers with access to modern tools
necessary to address food security challenges and contribute to sustainable
development.
Authorities
say the initiative underscores the importance of international collaboration in
building resilient food systems and advancing scientific capacity across
Africa.
