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KEMRI and Partners Launch Study on Aflatoxin Risks to Children's Health in Africa
Researchers at the KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, along with global partners, initiated a significant study on May 4, 2026, to evaluate aflatoxin exposure risks in African children amid climate change. Named TRACE, the project links climate data, food contamination, and health outcomes. It will take place in Kilifi, Kenya, and The Gambia to guide strategies against related illnesses.
May 4, 3:10 AM·1m read1 source
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Researchers at the KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme and global partners launched a major study on May 4, 2026, to assess the health risks of aflatoxin exposure in children across Africa, AllAfrica reported. The study, named TRACE (Tackling the Risks of Aflatoxins and Climate Effects on Child Health in Africa), will examine how prolonged exposure to aflatoxins affects child health in the context of climate change.
Aflatoxins are toxic substances produced by fungi that thrive in warm and humid conditions and often contaminate staple foods such as maize and groundnuts.
The research will link climate data, food contamination patterns, and child health outcomes. Elijah Songok said aflatoxin contamination remains widespread and described it as 'a hidden everyday reality in many African households,' particularly where staple foods are vulnerable to fungal growth. The study will be conducted in Kilifi, Kenya, and The Gambia.
The study aims to inform strategies to reduce illness and deaths linked to food contamination. The article was published by Capital FM in Nairobi on May 4, 2026.
