Nairobi, Kenya – The International Vaccine Institute (IVI), in collaboration with the KAVI – Institute of Clinical Research (KAVI-ICR), successfully concluded an Investigator Meeting in preparation for an upcoming Phase 2 Cholera Vaccine Clinical Trial in Nairobi.

Why It Matters

Cholera continues to pose a significant public health threat, particularly in underserved communities where access to clean water and sanitation remains limited. By advancing clinical research on cholera vaccines, KAVI-ICR and IVI are taking a critical step towards safeguarding vulnerable populations in Kenya, across Africa, and globally.

Highlights of the Week

• Community Engagement: The IVI team visited the KAVI-ICR Kangemi Clinic and Kangemi Health Centre, underscoring the realities of urban health challenges and reaffirming the importance of placing communities at the centre of this research.
• Scientific Excellence: A tour of KAVI-ICR’s state-of-the-art facility at the University of Nairobi’s Faculty of Health Sciences campus showcased the advanced infrastructure that enables world-class clinical research in Kenya.
• Partnerships in Action: This milestone is possible through collaboration with IVI, Nairobi County partners, and colleagues including Dr. Muna A. Aden (Nairobi City County), among others.

A Message of Vision

The launch of this study represents more than scientific progress—it reflects a shared commitment to building a healthier future.

Dr. Marianne Mureithi, the newly appointed Director of KAVI-ICR, emphasized:

“This study reflects what KAVI-ICR stands for—excellence in science with communities at heart. Partnering with IVI and Nairobi County to advance cholera vaccine research demonstrates the capacity we have built here at our research institute to contribute solutions not just for Kenya, but for Africa and the world. As we take this step forward, we reaffirm our vision of a cholera-free future.”

Adding to this, Professor Walter Jaoko, Principal Investigator of the study and the recent former Director of KAVI-ICR, highlighted the broader public health importance:

“Cholera remains a disease of inequity, thriving where access to clean water and sanitation is inadequate. Through this study, we aim not only to generate critical scientific evidence but also to bring hope to the communities most at risk. Every step we take in vaccine research brings us closer to protecting lives and building resilience in our health systems.”

Looking Ahead

With this upcoming cholera study, KAVI-ICR continues to strengthen its role as a hub for innovative vaccine research in Africa. By combining scientific rigor, community engagement, and strategic partnerships, the institute is paving the way for impactful solutions against infectious diseases.

Vision: A cholera-free future for Kenya, Africa, and the world.

About IVI

The International Vaccine Institute (IVI) is a treaty-based international organization established in 1997 with a not-for-profit mission to discover, develop, and deliver safe, effective, and affordable vaccines—empowering vaccine equity, impact, and sustainability globally.

About KAVI-ICR

KAVI-Institute of Clinical Research (KAVI-ICR) is an institute of the University of Nairobi mandated to advance health through Phase I–III clinical trials, basic & translational research, and implementation science in infectious and non-communicable diseases.