Kenya's aquatic research authority is built through partnership
From bilateral research agreements to multi-year donor-funded programmes, KMFRI's scientific capacity has always grown through collaboration. Explore how your institution can work with Kenya's national aquatic research mandate holder.
Three ways to collaborate
KMFRI structures partnerships into three broad models, each with a distinct process, set of requirements, and typical timeline. Most relationships begin with a conversation, not a contract.
Research Collaboration
Joint research projects, co-authored publications, shared field infrastructure, and staff or student exchange. Formalised through an MOU or joint research agreement and typically scoped to a specific research question or programme.
Funding & Co-Investment
Grant funding, multi-year programme co-financing, or infrastructure investment aligned to one of KMFRI's strategic funding priorities. Includes governance and accountability reporting suited to institutional donor requirements.
Technical & Advisory Partnership
KMFRI provides technical expertise, data, or advisory services to government agencies, county governments, NGOs, or private sector actors — often without a direct funding component, in exchange for shared data access or co-publication credit.
From first contact to signed agreement
Current strategic funding priorities
Six priority areas reflect where KMFRI's strategic plan identifies the greatest gap between mandate and resourcing — and the greatest opportunity for co-investment impact.
A sample of active partnership projects
SWIOFISH3 — Regional Fisheries Governance Strengthening
National Tilapia Improvement Programme — Phase II
Mikoko Pamoja Blue Carbon Expansion
KMFRI's global and regional network
Governance & institutional capacity
KMFRI is a State Corporation established under Kenya's Science, Technology and Innovation Act, governed by a Board of Management and subject to annual financial audit by the Office of the Auditor-General. The documents below support institutional due diligence for prospective donors and partners.
Ready to start a conversation?
Choose the pathway that best matches your interest. A KMFRI partnerships team member will respond within 3 business days.
Propose a Research Collaboration
For universities, research bodies, and scientific institutions seeking joint research projects.
Contact Research OfficeDiscuss a Funding Opportunity
For donors, development finance institutions, and foundations exploring co-investment.
View Donor OpportunitiesRequest Technical Advisory
For government agencies, county governments, NGOs, and private sector technical needs.
Explore Advisory Services