Africa Unites for Nuclear-Assisted Livestock Revolution

Chuka, Kenya – July 14, 2025 – Chuka University has officially launched the Second Summer School on Nuclear-Based Livestock Technologies, bringing together participants from 22 African countries for a two-week intensive course aimed at enhancing food security through nuclear-assisted reproductive technologies in livestock farming. The program, which kicked off today, is a regional platform for scientific knowledge exchange, focusing on practical solutions such as artificial insemination, embryo transfer, synchronization protocols, and laboratory innovations to boost livestock productivity, genetics, and climate resilience.

Speaking during the opening ceremony, Prof. David Serem, Chairman of Chuka University Council, emphasized the critical role of science in addressing the continent’s agricultural challenges. “Assisted reproductive technologies are not a luxury; they are a necessity if we are to sustainably feed our people, improve genetics, and ensure resilience in our livestock systems,” he said. “With shrinking resources, rising protein demand, and climate uncertainty, science-led transformation is no longer optional—it is urgent.”

The inaugural day featured a high-impact public lecture by Vice-Chancellor and course coordinator, Prof. Henry Mutembei. He underscored the transformative potential of nuclear science in livestock production. Prof. Mutembei highlighted successful applications across Africa and emphasized the need for scaling up research, policy integration, and farmer-level adoption. Later in the day, participants broke into country-based groups to discuss livestock challenges unique to their respective regions. These interactive discussions laid the groundwork for a solutions-oriented training experience, designed to build local capacities and foster inter-country collaboration that will help to design policy frameworks.

Participants had arrived on Sunday, July 13, setting the stage for an intellectually vibrant program hosted at the main campus. This marks the second edition of the Summer School hosted by the University. The 2024 edition focused on Climate Justice, and this year’s focus on nuclear technologies reaffirms Chuka University’s growing reputation as a hub for science-driven development in agriculture and environmental sustainability.