Chuka University and Clean Air (Africa) Explore Collaborative Efforts on Air Pollution, Energy, Climate Change, and Health

In a significant step towards addressing critical environmental and health challenges, a delegation from the Clean Air (Africa) team paid a courtesy call to the Vice-Chancellor Prof. Henry Mutembei on July 2, 2024. Led by Prof. Dan Pope from the University of Liverpool and Dr. James Mwitari from the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), the meeting united representatives from both institutions to explore potential avenues for collaboration.

Discussions centred on research collaborations in air pollution, energy solutions, climate change mitigation, and health interventions, leveraging the state-of-the-art Air Pollution Centre of Excellence at KEMRI’s Centre for Respiratory Disease Research. Prof. Gilbert Nduru, DVC ARSA expressed Chuka University’s keen interest in utilizing the Air Pollution Centre of Excellence at KEMRI. This Centre, equipped with advanced air quality measurement tools, offers unique opportunities for Chuka University’s researchers and students to engage in cutting-edge research and innovation.

Prof. Henry Mutembei highlighted the importance of such collaborations in addressing pressing environmental health issues, stating, “This partnership will not only enhance our research capabilities but also contribute significantly to the well-being of our communities.” Prof. Dan Pope and Dr. James Mwitari expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, emphasizing the potential for impactful research and policy development. “By working together, we can develop innovative solutions to combat air pollution and its associated health risks,” noted Prof. Pope.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from all parties to continue exploring and developing collaborative projects. The partnership between Chuka University, KEMRI, and the University of Liverpool marks a promising step towards a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future for Kenya and the region.