A group of younger scientists from the Scientists Of Kenya Association-SCOKA recently had the opportunity to visit the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO) Biotechnology Institute in Muguga. This visit provided valuable insights across various fields, including Biological Sciences, Physical Sciences, and Food Science & Technology.
The journey began in the Arthropods Department, where members interacted with mealworms. These remarkable organisms play a vital role in sustainable protein sourcing, as they are dried, ground, and mixed into animal feeds. Ongoing research is focused on determining the necessary measures to ensure mealworms are suitable for human consumption, highlighting their potential for food security.
In the same department, the team explored labs housing tsetse flies. Insights were gained by conducting geographical mapping of these flies, understanding the conditions necessary for their growth, feeding practices, and methods for sexing and mating. Discussions also covered the prevalence of trypanosomiasis, a disease transmitted by tsetse flies, along with affected geographical areas and strategies for prevention and control.
The visit continued in the Crop Tissue Culture Section, where participants learned about the processes involved in culturing plants after field collection. Key topics included optimal conditions for various crops, safety measures, and laboratory protocols essential for successful tissue cultures, which are critical for advancing agricultural practices.
Additionally, a brief tour of the Molecular Biology and Pharmacology Laboratories provided insights into cutting-edge research shaping the future of science in Kenya.
The visit concluded with discussions on potential collaborations between SCOKA and KALRO, focusing on supporting junior and early-career researchers. This partnership aims to foster innovation and scientific inquiry in the region.