In Pictures: Inside Kenya’s First Science Research and Translation Congress

The first-ever National Science Research and Translation Congress officially opened on Wednesday at the African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC) in Nairobi, marking a major step toward closing the gap between scientific discovery and policymaking in Kenya.

The congress, jointly organized by The Star and APHRC, brought together scientists, policymakers, and journalists to explore innovative ways of making scientific research more accessible, impactful, and aligned with national development goals.

Focusing on collaboration between the media and research community, the event emphasized the importance of translating scientific evidence into actionable policies that improve public health, the environment, and national progress.

In his keynote address, The Star’s Editorial Director, Paul Ilado, underscored the critical role journalists play in communicating scientific findings in ways that shape both public understanding and policy decisions.

“We need stronger partnerships among media professionals, researchers, and government institutions to ensure that research outcomes are effectively shared and implemented,” Ilado said.

The congress explored key themes, including evidence translation, digital science communication, and policy-driven research implementation. Participants agreed that scientific findings must extend beyond academic circles to reach decision-makers and communities that stand to benefit from new innovations.

Throughout the sessions, speakers observed that while Kenya produces a substantial amount of scientific research, its impact remains limited due to existing communication barriers.

They called on media professionals to simplify and humanize scientific findings so policymakers can use them to address pressing national challenges in areas such as health, environment, and technology.

The forum also encouraged journalists to leverage digital platforms—including social media, podcasts, and multimedia storytelling—to make science communication more engaging and far-reaching.

Participants emphasized that integrating science with storytelling can enhance public engagement and drive evidence-based decision-making.

The event concluded with participants pledging to build lasting networks that will promote continuous collaboration between researchers, media practitioners, and policymakers.

The inaugural congress represents a significant milestone in Kenya’s efforts to strengthen the connection between scientific research and national policy formulation, paving the way for a more evidence-driven future in governance and development.