Eldoret-based human rights activist Kipkorir Ngetich has strongly defended the proposed collaboration between Kenya and the United States on matters of health research and scientific innovation, describing the initiative as a major milestone for Kenya’s medical, scientific, and technological advancement.

Speaking amid growing public debate, political criticism, and court cases challenging the proposed establishment of an advanced biomedical and scientific research facility in Kenya, Ngetich said the project has the potential to transform the country into a continental center for disease prevention, laboratory research, medical innovation, and global scientific collaboration.

According to Ngetich, the world is constantly evolving and nations can no longer operate in isolation, especially on matters concerning healthcare, scientific research, and outbreak preparedness. He argued that countries which have made significant progress in disease prevention, treatment, vaccine development, and medical technology have achieved such success through strategic international partnerships and continuous scientific cooperation.

“The world today is dynamic and interconnected. Health challenges are no longer local issues because diseases spread globally within a very short time. Countries that have advanced in disease prevention and curative medicine have embraced collaboration and scientific partnerships, and Kenya should not be left behind,” said Ngetich.

He noted that the willingness by the United States government to work closely with Kenya in establishing a world-class research center demonstrates growing confidence in Kenya’s leadership, scientific potential, and strategic importance within the African continent.

Ngetich criticized individuals and organizations opposing the initiative, accusing some of them of spreading fear, misinformation, and political propaganda aimed at frustrating a project that could greatly benefit Kenya and the region.

“The loudest voices opposing this initiative are either ignorant of the importance of scientific research or are driven by jealousy, selfish interests, and political malice. Some people are simply uncomfortable seeing Kenya rise to become a global center for innovation and scientific excellence,” he said.

He further claimed that some foreign interests may secretly be supporting resistance against the project because many countries would wish to host such a high-level scientific facility within their own territories.

“Many nations around the world dream of having such advanced research institutions established on their soil because of the economic, scientific, and educational opportunities they bring. Kenya should not allow fear and politics to deny the country this historic opportunity,” he added.

The activist emphasized that scientific research facilities are critically important because they provide specialized infrastructure, advanced instrumentation, and collaborative ecosystems necessary for solving complex global health challenges. He explained that such institutions serve not only as centers for medical discoveries but also as hubs for training future generations of doctors, scientists, laboratory experts, and health researchers.

According to Ngetich, scientific research institutions are the backbone of modern civilization because they contribute directly to economic growth, innovation, public health protection, and technological development.

“Scientific research facilities are the origin points for life-saving medicines, vaccines, diagnostic tools, and outbreak response systems. They continuously improve global life expectancy and strengthen preparedness against pandemics and emerging diseases,” he stated.

He pointed out that the world continues to face dangerous health threats, particularly emerging airborne and waterborne diseases capable of causing devastating humanitarian crises if governments fail to invest adequately in research and preparedness.

“The world has experienced some of the most difficult moments in human history due to emerging diseases. We must therefore invest heavily in scientific innovation, laboratory systems, and research collaborations to protect humanity,” said Ngetich.

Referring to the COVID-19 pandemic, he argued that the crisis exposed weaknesses within global healthcare systems and demonstrated the importance of research, vaccine development, and international cooperation in responding to global emergencies.

“The COVID-19 pandemic clearly taught the world that diseases know no borders. Even after vaccines were developed, humanity continued to interact and move freely across nations. What matters most is preparedness through research, curative measures, preventive strategies, and advanced laboratory infrastructure,” he observed.

Ngetich further noted that no country, including Kenya, possesses supernatural powers capable of stopping global disease circulation, especially airborne infections.

“Kenya cannot behave as if it has special powers to stop airborne diseases because we cannot control global air circulation. The solution lies in science, collaboration, and investment in modern healthcare systems,” he said.

The human rights activist also praised President William Ruto for positioning Kenya as an attractive destination for global investment, innovation, and scientific cooperation.

“His Excellency President William Ruto has placed Kenya firmly on the global map as a center of opportunity, diplomacy, and innovation. This recognition by the United States government is proof that Kenya is increasingly becoming a trusted strategic partner,” he said.

Ngetich maintained that Kenya’s leadership and technical experts are fully capable of safeguarding public interests and ensuring the project operates within acceptable international standards.

“We have qualified professionals and experts in government institutions. There is no way the government can deliberately expose its own citizens to danger. Those outside government should avoid misleading the public for political gain,” he stated.

He also expressed concern over what he termed as hypocrisy by some leaders and professionals who support other advanced technologies such as nuclear energy projects but oppose scientific research collaborations.

“It is surprising to see some individuals who openly advocate for nuclear energy becoming the same people opposing scientific research initiatives that are aimed at protecting human life and improving healthcare systems,” he said.

Ngetich urged Kenyan courts handling petitions related to the project to carefully examine the long-term national benefits associated with scientific innovation and global partnerships before making decisions that could affect the future of healthcare and research in the country.

“Our honorable courts should consider the long-term economic, educational, and technological benefits Kenya stands to gain from such a transformative initiative. This is not just about today; it is about securing the future of generations to come,” he stated.

He added that establishing a world-class biomedical research facility requires enormous financial investment, highly specialized expertise, and modern technology that many developing nations struggle to afford independently.

“When development partners and donors are willing to support such projects, Kenya should learn to embrace those opportunities instead of politicizing them. Such facilities require billions of shillings in investment and advanced expertise,” he noted.

The activist further argued that the proposed collaboration would create major opportunities for Kenyan doctors, scientists, university students, and researchers through technology transfer, advanced training programs, scholarships, and international exposure.

“This initiative will empower Kenyan scientists and medical professionals by exposing them to advanced technology, global scientific networks, and modern research methods. It will also inspire the next generation of researchers and innovators,” said Ngetich.

He warned that Africa risks remaining dependent on foreign solutions if it fails to invest aggressively in scientific infrastructure and research institutions.

“For Africa to solve its own health challenges, we must build our own scientific capacity. We cannot continue depending entirely on external solutions while rejecting opportunities to strengthen our own institutions,” he said.

Ngetich called on Kenyans to reject divisive politics and instead support initiatives capable of transforming healthcare, boosting the economy, creating jobs, and elevating Kenya’s international standing.

“As a people, we must rise above cheap politics, hatred, and selfish interests. This project is bigger than individuals and political affiliations. It is about the future of Kenya and the future of healthcare in Africa,” he said.

He also appealed to the United States government not to abandon the initiative due to opposition from what he termed as malicious individuals seeking to frustrate national progress.

“We encourage the United States government not to lose interest because of resistance from a few narrow-minded individuals. The majority of Kenyans understand the importance of scientific research and global cooperation,” he added.

Ngetich concluded by emphasizing that scientific research remains one of the most powerful tools for protecting humanity from future pandemics, improving healthcare systems, and advancing economic development.

“Scientific research is the foundation of human progress. Nations that invest in science and innovation secure their future. Kenya must embrace this historic opportunity and become a leader in medical research and healthcare advancement in Africa,” he concluded.