The awards were presented by the Chair of the Jury, the Chair of NRF, and the Cabinet Secretary of the Ministry of Education, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts between the government and the research community.
Professor Mary Abukutsa-Onyango was honored for her pioneering research in agricultural sciences, particularly in the promotion and sustainability of indigenous vegetables and plants. Her work has significantly contributed to food security and nutrition in Kenya and beyond. Prof. Abukutsa-Onyango’s research has not only elevated the importance of indigenous crops in the national food agenda but also provided sustainable solutions to combat malnutrition.
Dr. Oscar Omondi Donde received recognition for his dedication to environmental sustainability, specifically in water resource management and ecosystem health. As a leader at Egerton University, Dr. Donde has spearheaded numerous research initiatives that have advanced environmental conservation in Africa. His work emphasizes the importance of preserving natural resources and has led to innovative strategies for maintaining ecosystem balance in the face of climate change.
Christine Wayua Musyimi was acknowledged for her innovative research in community mental health. Her focus on interventions for depression, dementia, and intimate partner violence in underserved communities has significantly increased access to mental health care in remote areas of Kenya. Her groundbreaking work has brought much-needed attention to the mental health crisis in marginalized communities and has provided scalable solutions that are being adopted nationwide.
Eng. Aggrey Shitsukane Shisiali was celebrated for his contributions to electrical and electronics engineering, particularly in technical and vocational education and training (TVET). His expertise in automation and telecommunications has raised the standards of engineering education in Kenya, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving technological landscape.
In addition to these awards, the ceremony featured the introduction of the Life Time Research Awards, recommended by the Jury to honor researchers whose work has significantly shaped the research landscape in Kenya. The awards were conferred upon three eminent scholars:
- Professor David Musyimi Ndetei was recognized with the Outstanding Social Sciences Life Time Award for his pioneering work in psychiatry and mental health. His advocacy and research have greatly advanced mental health services and policy in Kenya and globally.
- Professor Ruth Nduati was honored with the Outstanding Life Sciences Life Time Award for her contributions to pediatric and public health research, particularly in the prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV, which has set global standards.
- Professor Paul Kamau Mbugua received the Life Time Award for his work in plant taxonomy, biosystematics, and biodiversity conservation. His research on indigenous medicinal plants and sustainable conservation practices has had a profound impact on national and global scientific communities.
The National Research Fund’s commitment to supporting and recognizing outstanding research continues to be a driving force behind Kenya’s growth and global standing in scientific research and innovation.
