Nyandarua County Health Department Elevates Research and Knowledge Management: A Transformative Journey.

In 2018, Nyandarua County embarked on an ambitious journey to enhance research and knowledge utilization for informed decision-making. This initiative, driven by the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), aimed to establish a comprehensive research repository, positioning Nyandarua as one of six pilot counties in Kenya. Over the years, the county, with KEMRI’s guidance and mentorship, has made significant strides, including the development of a digital platform for managing research materials and hosting an Evidence-Informed Decision Making (EIDM) symposium in Ol Kalau.

The transformation began when two County Health Management Team (CHMT) members attended an entry meeting hosted by KEMRI scientists in Machakos County. This meeting set in motion a transformative research agenda, marking the start of Nyandarua County’s ambitious plan to enhance research and knowledge utilization for informed decision making. Capacity-building initiatives, including mentorship programs and workshops on research administration and knowledge management, have greatly enhanced the skills of local teams.

One key gap identified during various stakeholders’ consultative meetings was the dormant state of county research desks. It was suggested that the first step toward embracing research activities in the counties was the capacity building of CHMTs on matters related to research administration. KEMRI played a pivotal role in this initiative by developing two supportive materials. In collaboration with the State Department of Health and select CHMT representatives, KEMRI refined the Terms of Reference (ToRs) for the county health research coordinators. Additionally, the Institute developed the “Utafitiwafya Platform,” a digital repository designed to act as both a knowledge base and a research repository. The CHMT customized it further to store, retrieve, and synthesize locally generated research outputs into evidence infographics and data visualization to support decision-making processes.

Mentorship from KEMRI and the State Department of Health further bolstered Nyandarua’s efforts to establish a dedicated research team with a mission to drive the research agenda forward. Collaboration with KEMRI enabled the development of research priorities based on service delivery and population data, ensuring alignment with local needs. A mechanism for tracking research authorizations was implemented, enhancing oversight and coordination of research activities. Furthermore, the department incorporated funds for operational research into its work plan, demonstrating a commitment to evidence-based practices.

Knowledge dissemination has been a key focus area. The Health Department has notable achievements under the knowledge translation performance indicators, including: Sponsoring staff members to present their work at the 13th KEMRI Annual Scientific Health (KASH) conference held from 11th -13th, February 2023.

Organizing its first symposium dubbed the “Nyandarua Health Research Expo,” a significant step toward fostering knowledge-sharing and networking. The Expo was held in Ol-Kalau town on June 21, 2024, and aimed to create awareness and advocate for ongoing health research undertaken by staff. KEMRI played a significant role in the symposium, providing mentorship to participants.