Third Retinoblastoma Genetics Workshop Strengthens Cancer Genomics Research and Clinical Collaboration

The Department of Ophthalmology, University of Nairobi, in collaboration with the Department of Human Pathology and the Kenya AIDS Vaccine Initiative (KAVI)-Institute of Clinical Research, successfully hosted the Third Retinoblastoma (RB) Genetics Workshop on 23–24 July 2026. The workshop was held as part of the Velux Stiftung Retinoblastoma Genetics Project under the theme "Genetic Counseling and Interpretation of Genetic Results."

The two-day workshop brought together pathologists, ophthalmologists, laboratory scientists, genetic counsellors, researchers, residents and trainees, including our own Ms. Beatrice Omweri, Dr. Micah Oyaro and Dr. Wairimu Waweru, to strengthen capacity in cancer genetics and improve the diagnosis and management of retinoblastoma, the most common childhood eye cancer.

Participants engaged in sessions covering the genetics of retinoblastoma, interpretation of genetic test results, genetic counselling, and the sociocultural aspects of counselling families affected by hereditary cancers. Interactive role-play sessions provided practical experience in communicating complex genetic information to patients and their families.

The programme also highlighted advances in genomic technologies, with presentations on the application of Oxford Nanopore sequencing in cancer research and discussions on building sustainable capacity for paediatric cancer genomics in Kenya. The workshop concluded with a review of the project's progress and strategic discussions on future collaborative research and grant opportunities.

This workshop reflects the continued commitment of the University of Nairobi, the Department of Ophthalmology, and KAVI to advancing multidisciplinary research, strengthening local expertise in genomic medicine, and improving outcomes for children diagnosed with retinoblastoma. Through such collaborations, the institutions continue to build sustainable capacity in precision medicine and translational cancer research in Kenya.