The Ministry of Agriculture has commissioned a new Effluent Treatment System at the Kenya Veterinary Vaccines Production Institute (KEVEVAPI) Embakasi headquarters in Nairobi.
The new facility is as a result of the continued collaboration and support from the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA).
Agriculture Cabinet Secretary (CS) Mithika Linturi said the new plant supported by DTRA would go a long way in promoting environmental management during production.
The CS added that the new plant ensures all liquid waste generated in the vaccine production facility is well treated, including stabilizing the PH before it is discharged to the normal sewer line.
“The Kenyan Government is grateful to DRTA for their continued support through the Training of staff in Biorisk management, enforcing bio-security through the construction of two-wheel washes and investment totaling Sh400 million,” said Linturi in a speech read on his behalf by the Director of Livestock Production Elmi Bishar.
The CS reiterated that the government recognises the big role played by DTRA in the sector and acknowledges all support received.
“We continually look forward to an extended cordial working relationship to improve the sector,” he added.
At the same time, KEVEVAPI Board Chairman Dr. Geoffrey Kamau said that the new Effluent Treatment System would go a long way in ensuring effluent released from manufacturing is safe for the environment.
“This places KEVEVAPI among strategic institutions that are environmentally conscious and keen to uphold safe environmental guidelines under the One Health Umbrella,” said Kamau.
“This is now an institution for benchmarking on modern effluent treatment systems for industrial bio-waste in the region,” he added.
Dr Kamau noted that KEVEVAPI, being a globally recognized institute in the production and supply of high-quality and affordable veterinary vaccines, is a strategic facility not only for Kenya but many countries in Africa.
Meanwhile, Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) Director Dr. Robert Pope lauded the government’s efforts in attaining the global standards of bio-safety.
“This system is refined and has a reduced risk of accidental release, Kenya is now the gold standard for vaccine production in the region,” he stated.
By Mike Mulinge
