Nairobi, Kenya, April 29, 2024 – The American Institutes for Research (AIR) is excited to announce the inauguration of its new office in Kenya, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to research and technical assistance in the East Africa region. The opening ceremony, which took place in the vibrant Westlands area of Nairobi, was attended by local and regional leaders, demonstrating the collaborative spirit behind this venture.
The establishment of the Kenya office amplifies AIR’s dedication to improving education, healthcare, workforce, and economic opportunities in East Africa. “We are more than just opening an office; AIR is forging a partnership with the leaders and citizens of this region to foster greater opportunities and create a more equitable world for all,” stated Jessica Heppen, President, and CEO of AIR.
With a team of 39 highly skilled staff members, the newly inaugurated office will serve as a central hub for AIR’s ongoing and future initiatives in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and neighboring countries. These initiatives encompass a wide range of projects that aim to make a positive impact on the region. For instance: promoting the production and consumption of orange-fleshed sweet potatoes to combat Vitamin A deficiencies in Tanzania, ensuring the effective distribution of essential health commodities through USAID’s Afya Uwazi project, examining the linkages between socioeconomic indicators and climate change in East Africa, and supporting USAID’s Famine Early Warning Systems Network to enable evidence-based humanitarian responses in regions facing food insecurity.
Moreover, the Kenya office will facilitate collaborations with regional universities and organizations, helping to ensure the relevance of AIR’s research and technical assistance work while fostering the development of social and behavioral sciences. By partnering with leading institutions such as the University of Dar es Salaam and the University of Nairobi, AIR’s Pipeline Partnership Program seeks to provide education, training, and mentoring for students aspiring to enter these fields. Additionally, AIR is actively fostering partnerships with Kenyatta University and Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology in Kenya to facilitate joint research and educational initiatives.
“The challenges faced by East Africa require a nuanced and multifaceted approach. It is essential that we work closely with communities and individuals most affected by these issues to understand their needs and address them effectively,” emphasized Christine Kiecha, managing director of AIR’s Kenya office.
As AIR expands its operations in Kenya, the organization remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting the development and application of timely and relevant evidence. Through collaborations, knowledge sharing, and the cultivation of new relationships, AIR aims to empower East Africa to overcome challenges and build a brighter future.
About AIR:
Established in 1946, the American Institutes for Research (AIR) is a nonpartisan, non-profit institution dedicated to conducting comprehensive research and delivering technical assistance in the fields of health, education, and workforce development. Guided by a mission to generate rigorous evidence for a more equitable world, AIR operates globally with headquarters in Arlington, Virginia, and offices across the United States and abroad. For more information about AIR and its initiatives, please visit www.air.org.
The article announces the opening of the American Institutes for Research’s (AIR) new office in Kenya, demonstrating their commitment to research and technical assistance in the East Africa region. With a team of 39 skilled staff members, the office will serve as a central hub for ongoing and future initiatives in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and neighboring countries.
One of the key projects mentioned in the article is the promotion of orange-fleshed sweet potatoes to combat Vitamin A deficiencies in Tanzania. This initiative aims to improve nutrition and address a pressing health issue in the region. Additionally, the article highlights the effective distribution of essential health commodities through USAID’s Afya Uwazi project and the examination of socioeconomic indicators and climate change in East Africa.
By establishing partnerships with regional universities and organizations, such as the University of Dar es Salaam and the University of Nairobi, AIR’s Pipeline Partnership Program seeks to provide education, training, and mentoring for students interested in social and behavioral sciences. Collaborations with Kenyatta University and Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology in Kenya are also mentioned, which will facilitate joint research and educational initiatives.
One of the advantages of AIR expanding its operations in Kenya is the opportunity to directly collaborate with local communities and individuals affected by the challenges in East Africa. This approach ensures that the needs of the region are understood and addressed effectively.
However, there may also be challenges and controversies associated with AIR’s expansion in Kenya. One potential challenge could be cultural differences and the need for sensitivity to local customs and practices. Another issue that may arise is the integration of AIR’s research and technical assistance work with existing initiatives and organizations in the region.
In terms of market trends, the expansion of AIR’s operations in Kenya reflects a growing emphasis on research and technical assistance in East Africa. The region is experiencing increased interest and investment in education, healthcare, and workforce development, creating opportunities for organizations like AIR to contribute to the region’s development.
In terms of forecasts, it is likely that AIR will continue to expand its presence in East Africa as they forge partnerships and successfully implement projects in Kenya and neighboring countries. The organization’s commitment to generating rigorous evidence for a more equitable world aligns with the growing demand for evidence-based approaches in addressing societal challenges.
For more information about AIR and its initiatives, interested readers can visit their website at www.air.org.