Equality and Inclusion in Research Funding Award 2024

In a landmark achievement, the National Research Fund (NRF) was honored with the prestigious Equality and Inclusion in Research Funding Award 2024 at a ceremony held on December 20, 2024, at The Boma Hotel, Nairobi. The award, presented by the Gender & Disability Development Centre (GDDC) Kenya as part of the Kenya Equality & Inclusion Awards 2024, recognizes NRF’s commitment to fostering diversity and accessibility in research funding.

The Kenya Equality & Inclusion Awards celebrate organizations and individuals that have made significant strides in fostering inclusivity and creating equitable opportunities for all. Receiving this award underscores NRF’s pivotal role in ensuring that research opportunities are accessible to underrepresented and marginalized groups, including women, persons with disabilities, and minorities.

 Inclusive Initiatives

 NRF’s approach to promoting equality and inclusivity in research is reflected in its various initiatives, including targeted grants and partnerships. Key highlights include:

• Award for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) – During the Kenya National Research Festival (KNRF) in August 2024, NRF introduced a special award category at the National Outstanding Research Awards (NORA) to recognize researchers with disabilities. This initiative underscores NRF’s commitment to promoting equitable research opportunities for persons with disabilities.
• Capacity-Building Programs – NRF facilitates workshops and training sessions focused on equipping researchers from diverse backgrounds with essential skills.
• Collaboration for Inclusive Research – The organization actively collaborates with stakeholders committed to promoting inclusive research ecosystems.

As NRF celebrates this significant achievement, the organization remains committed to strengthening its efforts in promoting equality and inclusivity. Moving forward, NRF plans to enhance its support for research initiatives that address societal inequalities, ensuring that inclusive research becomes a cornerstone of national development. Receiving the Equality and Inclusion in Research Funding Award 2024 is a testament to NRF’s transformative role in Kenya’s research sector. The organization is deeply honored by this recognition and extends its gratitude to GDDC Kenya for acknowledging its efforts. NRF will continue to champion inclusivity in research funding, fostering a research environment where all voices are heard and valued.