Combat Malaria: GM Mosquitoes Solution in Kenya - Health

Introduction of GM Mosquitoes in Kenya

The Kenya Medical Research Institute ( Kemri ) in collaboration with the Imperial College London is set to introduce genetically modified ( GM ) mosquitoes in Kenya to combat the spread of malaria . With nearly 3.42 million cases of malaria confirmed in the country in 2022 , authorities believe that leveraging genetic approaches can help control the disease , which remains endemic in Kenya.

 Kemri researchers aim at leveraging genetic approaches , specifically gene drive , to control the spread of malaria . Last week , in a meeting that followed joint grant submissions by the two institutions for research and innovation funding , Dr Martin Bundi , the acting Deputy Director of Research and Development at Kemri emphasised the critical need to leverage advanced technologies to combat malaria.

GM Mosquitoes and Disease Control

The GM mosquitoes to be introduced in Kenya are mass - produced in a laboratory and carry two types of genes . These include a self - limiting gene that prevents female mosquito offspring from surviving to adulthood and a fluorescent marker gene that glows under a special red light . When the eggs of these GM mosquitoes hatch and develop into adult mosquitoes , they mate with wild females , passing on the genes to their offspring . The expected outcome is a decrease in the numbers of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes in the area.

Experts note that releasing GM mosquitoes is not aimed at stopping an ongoing disease outbreak , but rather at preventing future outbreaks . By reducing the number of mosquitoes that can spread germs , the chance of an outbreak can be minimized . According to Prof Christophides George and Prof Windbichler Nikolai from Imperial College , malaria is an endemic disease in Kenya , making it crucial to embrace new technologies to control it.

Collaborative Efforts and Global Impact

Kenya 's Medical Research Institute ( Kemri ) and the Imperial College of London are collaborating on this initiative to introduce GM mosquitoes in Kenya . This effort is part of a global movement to use genetically modified organisms to combat diseases like malaria . In May , Djibouti became the first East African nation to release GM mosquitoes as part of a similar exercise to stop the spread of malaria . Such collaborative efforts highlight the importance of leveraging advanced technologies in disease control.

Conclusion

With the introduction of GM mosquitoes in Kenya , there is hope for a significant reduction in the population of disease - carrying mosquitoes . By embracing new technologies and genetic approaches , countries like Kenya are taking proactive measures to combat endemic diseases like malaria . It is essential to continue exploring innovative solutions to public health challenges and work together on a global scale to protect communities from the spread of infectious diseases.