On Friday, 30 January 2026, KAVI-Institute of Clinical Research opened its doors to collaborators and prospective partners during an Open House held alongside the University of Nairobi Collaborative HIV/STI/Reproductive Health Research Group Annual Meeting.

The Open House brought together established investigators, postdoctoral fellows, and postgraduate students from the University of Nairobi, Kenya Medical Research Institute, the University of Manitoba and the University of Washington. The gathering provided a dynamic platform for scientific exchange, networking, and exploration of future research partnerships focused on HIV, sexually transmitted infections, reproductive health, and broader global health priorities.

Showcasing KAVI-ICR’s Science and Future Vision

The Open House was led by KAVI-ICR Director Dr. Marianne Mureithi who welcomed participants and shared an overview of the institute’s work and strategic direction. Attendees were introduced to KAVI-ICR’s extensive portfolio, which spans clinical trials, basic science research, observational and social-behavioural studies, discovery science, implementation research, One Health initiatives, and capacity strengthening.

Participants learned about KAVI-ICR’s long-standing leadership in HIV vaccine research and its expanding work in tuberculosis, Ebola, RSV, COVID-19, malaria, and cholera vaccine trials, as well as in cutting-edge immunology, mucosal research, genomics, and antimicrobial resistance studies. The Open House also highlighted the institute’s strong commitment to training and mentorship, including Good Clinical Practice (GCP), Good Clinical Laboratory Practice (GCLP), bioethics, and postgraduate research supervision.

Speaking during the event, Dr. Mureithi emphasised the importance of collaboration and African-led science:

“KAVI-ICR is built on the belief that bold, solution-driven science from Africa can shape global health outcomes. Our Open House was an opportunity to share not only what we do, but where we are going, strengthening partnerships, empowering the next generation of scientists, and ensuring our research translates into real impact for communities in Kenya, Africa, and beyond.”

Honouring KAVI-ICR’s History and Growth

The presence of Prof. Omu Anzala, the founding and first Director of KAVI-ICR, further enriched the Open House. Prof. Anzala provided valuable historical context, reflecting on the institute’s establishment in 1999 and its evolution from a small research unit into a leading centre of excellence in clinical research and training.

He highlighted key milestones, including the successful conduct of multiple HIV vaccine trials, the growth of state-of-the-art laboratories and clinical trial sites, and KAVI-ICR’s role in building research capacity across Kenya and the East African region. His reflections underscored the institute’s strong foundation and its readiness for the next phase of scientific innovation.

Strengthening Global and Local Partnerships

By opening its doors to collaborators and researchers seeking partnerships in Kenya, the KAVI-ICR Open House reinforced the institute’s role as a hub for global collaboration and locally grounded research excellence. The event fostered dialogue around shared scientific priorities, future joint projects, and opportunities for trainee exchange and mentorship.

As KAVI-ICR continues to advance its vision of being an institute of excellence in health research, innovation, and knowledge translation, the Open House served as a timely reminder that strong partnerships, shared learning, and a clear vision for the future remain central to its mission.