In a landmark move signalling a new era for African-led science, the Kenya–Wellcome Research Programme has appointed Dr Edwine Barasa as its first African Executive Director — a historic milestone in the institution’s 36-year history.
Dr Barasa, a renowned health economist and policy expert, was officially confirmed on October 3, 2025, following a “highly competitive recruitment process,” according to the Programme’s partners. He had served as interim director since February 2024.
The appointment represents a significant step toward local leadership in global health research, aligning with a broader continental push to decolonise science and ensure equity in international collaborations.
The Kenya–Wellcome Research Programme — a partnership between the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) and the UK-based Wellcome Trust — was founded in 1989 in Kilifi, on Kenya’s coast. It has grown into one of Africa’s most respected biomedical and public health research centres, producing world-class studies on malaria, vaccines, and health systems, and training hundreds of African scientists.
Until now, the institution’s leadership had been held by British scientists: founding director Prof. Kevin Marsh, followed by Prof. Philip Bejon, who led from 2014. Dr Barasa’s appointment thus marks a symbolic and practical shift toward African stewardship of scientific excellence.
“I am excited about the journey ahead,” said Dr Barasa. “This programme has built an extraordinary legacy of scientific excellence. My goal is to strengthen its impact through world-class research, policy influence, and leadership development that reflect Africa’s priorities and perspectives.”
Dr Barasa is widely recognised for his contributions to health financing, priority setting, and policy reform. His research and advisory work have informed Kenya’s universal health coverage strategy and pandemic preparedness planning, earning him respect within both government and global health circles.
Colleagues describe him as a consensus builder who bridges science and policy — qualities seen as vital for steering the programme’s next phase, which includes expanding research into genomics, climate-health intersections, and data science.
Observers view Dr Barasa’s appointment as a reflection of broader institutional change within global research funding agencies. The Wellcome Trust, in particular, has faced calls to address racial and geographic imbalances in its Africa partnerships. In 2019, former director Sir Jeremy Farrar acknowledged that the dominance of white, male directors across Wellcome’s African programmes was “not sustainable” and pledged to advance local leadership.
Dr Barasa’s elevation now signals that promise taking tangible form.
Analysts say the transition represents a broader African scientific renaissance, as regional institutions assume greater roles in vaccine development, clinical research, and health innovation.
As Dr Barasa takes the helm, expectations are high that the Kenya–Wellcome partnership will continue to uphold its global stature while deepening its African roots — ensuring that research conducted on the continent is led by, and for, Africans.
Article by Jed Mwangi
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