Biobanking Accreditation Takes Center Stage in Africa: KENAS and British Standards Institute Lead the Way

Nairobi, Kenya, February 4, 2025 – Africa is stepping into a new era of scientific excellence and global collaboration. The Kenya Accreditation Service (KENAS), in partnership with the British Standards Institute (BSI), has launched a four-day Biobanking Accreditation Awareness Workshop at the Pullman Hotel, Nairobi. This event is a landmark initiative aimed at building capacity in biobanking accreditation based on the globally recognized ISO 20387:2018 standard.

Why Biobanking Accreditation Matters

Biobanks are critical to the future of scientific research and healthcare, acting as repositories for biological samples used in genomics, drug development, cancer research, and public health interventions. Accreditation ensures that these samples are managed with integrity, quality, and ethical responsibility—safeguarding both research outcomes and patient care.

Dr. Ongeti highlighted that this initiative would streamline research processes, strengthen Africa's research landscape, reduce regulatory barriers, and create global trust in African research and healthcare solutions.

Building Capacity for Africa’s Quality Infrastructure

The collaboration between KENAS and BSI supports capacity building in Kenya’s Quality Infrastructure (QI) ecosystem, which includes metrology, standards, and conformity assessment. The strategic partnership has already contributed significantly to the development of the Kenya Quality Policy, enhancing the country’s global trade prospects and technological advancement.

What Does This Mean for Africa?

Accreditation under the ISO 20387:2018 standard is expected to:

• Enhance the credibility of research samples

• Foster global collaborations

• Improve regulatory compliance

• Boost Africa’s role in cutting-edge scientific discoveries

The Bigger Picture

Biobanking accreditation is more than just a technical standard—it represents a pathway for Africa to lead in global biotechnology and medical research. With this development, African researchers and institutions are better positioned to collaborate with global partners and contribute meaningfully to solutions in healthcare and beyond.

Leading the Way in Africa’s Scientific Future

The move to formalize biobanking accreditation is not just about compliance; it’s a bold step toward transforming Africa’s scientific ecosystem. As the first African accreditation body to offer biobank accreditation under the ISO 20387:2018 standard, KENAS is setting the stage for a new era of trust in African research. This development opens doors for African researchers to participate in global research networks and collaborate on life-saving innovations.

Dr. Ongeti’s vision highlights the potential for Africa to lead in biomedical advancements while creating new economic opportunities in research and development.

Collaboration as the Key to Success

With stakeholders from regulatory agencies, biotechnology firms, and research institutions in attendance, the workshop serves as a collaborative platform for knowledge exchange and capacity building. By aligning with global standards, African researchers can ensure that their work is recognized and trusted worldwide.

KENAS and BSI’s partnership is a model for how strategic collaborations can strengthen national and regional capacity in quality infrastructure. This initiative is expected to inspire other African nations to adopt similar accreditation standards, contributing to the continent’s collective growth in the biotechnology sector.

The Road Ahead

The Biobanking Accreditation Awareness Workshop is just the beginning. KENAS will continue to work closely with local and international stakeholders to ensure that the momentum is sustained. As more African biobanks seek accreditation, the future looks bright for science and innovation on the continent.