Enhancing Understanding of and Preparedness for Public Health Threats Through Research in Kenya

This notice of funding opportunity (NOFO) supports research, implementation science, and public health evaluations to inform best practices for preventing and responding to infectious disease threats in Kenya, while strengthening local research capacity.The award recipient will conduct research, implementation science, and public health evaluations through the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) and focus on four required priority areas:Influenza and other respiratory pathogens: Activities include surveilling high-risk groups; monitoring for human and avian influenza and other pathogens; and evaluating efficacy and use of vaccines and other treatments. Outcomes include increasing understanding of disease burden and improving vaccination strategies.Vaccine-preventable diseases: Research will assess disease burden, vaccine effectiveness, and sociocultural factors influencing immunization. Outcomes include increasing vaccine uptake and strengthening immunization systems.Drug-resistant infections: Activities include monitoring antimicrobial resistance (AMR) trends, applying novel diagnostics, and identifying drivers of resistance. Outcomes include improving mitigation strategies and global AMR preparedness.Global and emerging health threats: Research will address malaria, HIV, tuberculosis, schistosomiasis, and emerging infections. Outcomes include improving understanding of disease dynamics, intervention effectiveness, and cross-border risks.The recipient will also conduct research coordination and administration activities to manage and oversee U.S. government–funded public health research, ensure compliance with financial and ethical standards, and enhance organizational infrastructure. Outcomes include improved management and compliance with federal funding regulations.The proposed activities under this NOFO will generate evidence to guide U.S. and global preparedness, reduce disease burden and health threats in Kenya, and prevent the spread of health threats across borders.