A team of distinguished scholars from Chuka University has secured a prestigious €1,059,943 (Ksh. 159,203,438 million) grant from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to lead a groundbreaking four-year project aimed at transforming Kenya’s food systems using nuclear safety-compliant technologies. The project, titled “Improving Mixed Crop-Livestock Production Systems in Kenya using Nuclear Safety-Compliant Technologies for Enhanced Food Security,” will run from the year 2026 to 2029 and contributes directly to Sustainable Development Goal 2 – ending hunger, achieving food security, and promoting sustainable agriculture. The research initiative is led by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Henry Mutembei as the Principal Investigator, with co-investigators Prof. Eunice Githae, Prof. Moses Muraya, Prof. Paul Kamweru, and Prof. Joel Gichumbi, all from Chuka University. Other key collaborators include Prof. Miriam Kinyua from the University of Eldoret, Dr. Anne Ndeke from the University of Nairobi, and Dr. Bridgit Muasa from the Directorate of Veterinary Services. Speaking on the award, Prof. Mutembei noted, “This project leverages science and innovation to address persistent challenges in smallholder farming, particularly in mixed crop-livestock systems. It will significantly boost food production, animal health, and soil productivity in line with national development goals.” Through targeted research, farmer training, and policy support, the project will apply nuclear and related techniques to improve livestock breeding, disease control, soil-water management, and traceability in food systems across selected regions in Kenya. This initiative also aims to establish a Centre of Excellence at Chuka University that will harbour fully equipped laboratories for animal breeding, crop breeding, soil and water management, and food safety. The IAEA’s endorsement highlights Kenya’s growing leadership in agricultural innovation and reaffirms Chuka University’s rising profile in international research and development.
