Nairobi forum discusses combating biological weapon attacks

NAIROBI, Jan. 16 (Xinhua) -- Kenyan institutions of higher learning and state-funded research bodies will channel investments toward programs aimed at strengthening bio-security measures in the country, officials said Monday.

At a forum held to discuss the role of universities in strengthening bio-security measures, policymakers and scholars said robust financing for research, capacity building and public awareness is key to strengthening Kenya's capacity to respond to attacks by rogue entities using biological weapons.

Roy Mugiira, director of technical services at the National Commission for Science, Technology and Innovation, said public universities should explore innovative ways to strengthen bio-security amid threats linked to unregulated movements of biological and chemical toxins.

"Kenya is a signatory to the United Nations Security Council resolution that prohibits use of biological toxins that could pose a threat to global peace," Mugiira said.

Mabel Imbuga, vice chancellor of the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, said that with Kenya and other African countries being at risk of biological toxins, there was need to invest in deterrent measures.

"The threat of weapons of mass destruction including biological weapons is real and universities must contribute to government efforts in raising the awareness on bio-security," Imbuga said. Enditem