Kenyans Will Not be Used as Guinea Pigs, Uhuru Says on Covid-19 Vaccine Trials

President Kenyatta has dismissed reports that scientists from the United Kingdom are planning to trial a Covid-19 vaccine in Kenya.

Reports on Friday claimed that Oxford University researchers had identified Kenya as their alternative location to test their vaccine if they fail to get desired results in the UK.

Speaking during a State address on Saturday, Uhuru termed the reports as false, adding that Kenyans will not be used as guinea pigs.

“Some people were saying in interview that there is research going on that will have Kenyans used as guinea pigs for a vaccine. Those claims are absolutely false,” Uhuru stated.

Uhuru further indicated that scientists from Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) and the Institute of Primate Research (IPR) are working on finding a vaccine for Covid-19.

“Our institutions specifically like Kemri and the Institute of Primate Research (IPR) and others are inclined in the global effort to try and find a vaccine. And once we have found one and reach an area where these vaccines can be tested on humans we shall keep you informed and nothing shall be done in the dark,” he added.

“I appeal to those passing on unverified information do not cause panic and anxiety among your fellow Kenyans.”

The reports angered Kenyans on social media who demanded that the government comes out clean on the matter. 

Kenyans wondered why the vaccine would be trialed in Kenya, which has fewer cases of Covid-19 compared to other countries.

As of Saturday, April 25th, there were 343 Covid-19 infections in Kenya, 98 recoveries, and 14 deaths.