Principal Secretary for Defence, Dr. Patrick Mariru, today presided over the opening ceremony of the 3rd KDF Medical Scientific Conference, held under the theme “Integrating Research and Innovation in Healthcare for a Mission-Ready Force.” The two-day event is taking place at a Nairobi hotel.
In his remarks, Dr. Mariru emphasized the significance of the conference, highlighting it as a testament to the KDF medical fraternity’s commitment to advancing healthcare through research, science, and innovation.
“Scientific conferences like this serve as vital platforms for sharing research findings, peer reviewing, exchanging innovative ideas, and gaining professional insights. They not only foster professional growth but also pave the way for evidence-based solutions to healthcare challenges, particularly within the security sector.”
Vice-Chancellor National Defence University-Kenya (NDU-K), Lieutenant General Jimson Mutai, commended the efforts of medical researchers, healthcare professionals, and military medical practitioners in embracing technological advancements in both peacetime healthcare and battlefield medicine.
Major General (Dr) George Nganga, Director of Medical Services, emphasized that integrating research and innovation into the KDF healthcare system enhances medical preparedness, improves patient outcomes, and strengthens the capacity to address emerging health challenges in both military and civilian contexts.
Brigadier (Dr) James Mwika, Chairman of the Medical Scientific Conference Steering Committee, noted that over 95% of this year’s research abstracts originated from within the KDF, including submissions from mission areas in Somalia. This underscores the practical applications of medical research in operational environments.
The event is being held in collaboration with NDU-K and the Kenya Medical Research Institute, alongside multinational pharmaceutical companies such as Novartis, AstraZeneca, and Allmed Medical Supplies. It has attracted 180 medical personnel from the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) tri-services and the Defence Forces Memorial Hospital (DFMH).
The KDF Medical Scientific Conference is an annual event that brings together experts in research, clinical medicine, and medical innovation to exchange knowledge, debate critical issues, and explore advancements that shape the future of military healthcare.
Also in attendance were Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic and Student Affairs, NDU-K Professor Anne Muigai, Director, Defence National Security Industries (DNSI) Major General Bernard Waliaula, Chief Executive Officer, National Research Fund Professor Dickson Andala, Senior officers, officers, and service members.
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