National Defence University-Kenya (NDU-K), in partnership with Kenya BioVax Institute (KBI) Limited, launched the inaugural National Security Awareness in Public Health Practice Course on 01 April 2025. The opening ceremony was officiated by Major General William Shume, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (DVC) for Research, Innovation, and Security Studies, who represented Lieutenant General Jimson Mutai, the University’s Vice-Chancellor.

In his address, Maj Gen Shume emphasized the critical importance of collaboration between NDU-K, KBI, and other relevant state agencies. He highlighted that such partnerships foster expertise and enhance resource mobilization, which is essential for tackling the complex healthcare challenges that overlap with national security. He reaffirmed NDU-K’s commitment to education, research, and service, stressing that strengthening force capability and improving public health delivery are vital components of national security. Maj Gen Shume urged participants to apply the knowledge gained during the course to create practical, sustainable solutions for enhancing healthcare quality and effectively addressing evolving health security threats.

Dr. Cecilia Wanjala, the Ag. Director General and CEO of KBI, also underscored the course's importance in addressing the interrelated issues of health and security. She noted that the program aligns with a whole-of-government approach to national security, promoting institutional collaboration to uphold national values and strengthen healthcare security strategies.

Brigadier Peter Chelimo, Director of the Centre for Security and Strategic Studies (CSSS), described the training as a significant step in deepening the understanding of the vital link between health and security. He emphasized that the course would provide valuable insights and innovative solutions to the complex challenges faced by healthcare professionals and security personnel worldwide.

The five-day course, developed by NDU-K’s Centre for Security and Strategic Studies (CSSS), aims to engage the leadership and staff of Kenya BioVax Institute (KBI) Limited in deepening their understanding of the role public health professionals play in achieving national security goals, while also raising national security awareness among KBI staff and other senior executives. This will enable them to contribute effectively to socio-economic development and human security, supporting the vision of a secure, prosperous, and peaceful Kenya.