Who We Are
Who We Are
Kargeno is a multidisciplinary research and innovation organization dedicated to advancing health, science, and development.
Kargeno Research & Policy Hub is an emerging African-led research organization dedicated to conducting end-to-end health research—from clinical trials through implementation to policy change—with a focus on sexual reproductive health and mental health integration. Operating with strong affiliation to KEMRI, we leverage its infrastructure and systems to conduct rigorous and ethical research. Registered in Kenya, Kargeno upholds accountable governance, adheres to ethical principles, and complies with both national and international standards.
Our Vision
Transforming Health Together
To advance equitable health outcomes through innovative clinical research, strategic partnerships, and evidence-based interventions that bridge science, policy, and community health in Kenya and globally.
Our Mission
Research Driving Better Lives
To be a leading African research institution driving transformative health solutions through excellence in scientific discovery, implementation science, and sustainable research infrastructure that improves health outcomes for vulnerable populations.
Core Values
Rooted in collaboration, compassion, and equity
At Kargeno Hub, we are dedicated to transforming the health and well-being of women, adolescents, and children by bridging the gap between research, lived experiences, and real-world solutions. Through data-driven insights, innovative programs, and strong partnerships, we design, test, and scale practical approaches that improve access to quality healthcare, inform better policies, and strengthen health systems
Respect
Honoring every voice, community, and partner we serve.
Competence
Rigorous science and technical excellence in all we do.
Compassion
Care-centered research rooted in empathy and dignity.
Teamwork
Collaborative partnerships across science, policy, and practice.
Human-Centered
Designing solutions with and for the communities we serve.
$25M+
Research Portfolio
15+
Team Leadership
100+
Peer-reviewed Publications
12
Policy Influence
20+
Counties across Kenya
Our Leadership
Meet the visionary leaders driving our research
Guided by experienced researchers, community leaders, and dedicated professionals working together to bridge science, policy, and practice across Africa.
Dr. Maricianah Onono
Founder & Principal Investigator · MBChB, MMed, MSc, PhD
I am a Senior Principal Clinical Research Scientist and a psychiatrist at the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI),with nearly two decades of experience leading high-impact clinical trials and implementation science research across Africa. My work focuses on advancing adolescent, maternal, and sexual and reproductive health through rigorous science, community-rooted implementation, and strong policy engagement. I have served as Principal Investigator on over 15 multi-site clinical trials and large-scale public health studies—including the landmark KEN SHE single-dose HPV vaccine efficacy trial, the NIH-funded Tunawiri and Tatua mental health-HIV integration studies, and multisectoral interventions addressing food insecurity and health outcomes
I held the position of Acting Director for Scientific Programs, Partnerships, and Grants Management at KEMRI, where I led the coordination of seven multidisciplinary scientific programs, stewarded over 200 active international collaborations, and oversaw the Institute’s resource mobilization and grant management efforts. I led strategic reforms to improve scientific productivity, grant performance, and international engagement. I established KEMRI’s One-Stop-Shop External Grants Office, unlocking nearly Ksh 7billion in annual grants portfolio, and serve as KEMRI’s lead interface with the Ministry of Health, National Treasury, Attorney General’s Office, and development partners and on several occasions stepped in as Acting Director General -KEMRI. I played a pivotal role in high-stakes negotiations with Welcome Trust, USARMY- WRAIR, LSTM, CDC, and JICA (2B infrastructural grant)—balancing diplomacy with institutional integrity and national interest. I have authored over 100 peer-reviewed publications and have a strong funding record with the Gates Foundation, NIH, Sanofi, WHO, and UNICEF, among others. My leadership bridges science, strategy, and systems—bringing evidence to action for greater health equity.
- KEMRI Top 20 Principal Investigators -2022
- Best Oral Presentation, 13th KASH Conference- 2022
- KEMRI Global Excellence Award - 2020
- Fletcher Jones Graduate Fellowship 2018-2019
- Rosenberg-Hill Graduate Research Fellowship 2017-2018
- Top 120 Under 40 Global Leaders in Family Planning 2016
- KEMRI 'The Lenana' Silver Scientific Excellence Achievement Award 2014
- NIH Fogarty Global Health Fellowship 2012
- Meritorious Honor Award for Exemplary Performance in the FACES Program 2010
- Fogarty International Training Award in HIV/AIDS 2009
- Christian Medical Fellowship for Outstanding Service 2005
Our Leadership & Staff
At Kargeno Research & Policy Hub, our strength lies in our people. Guided by experienced researchers, community leaders, and dedicated professionals, we work together to bridge science, policy, and practice. Our team brings diverse expertise—ranging from public health and data science to community engagement—united by a shared mission to improve health outcomes and empower communities across Africa.
Join Our Team
We welcome researchers, innovators, and practitioners who share our passion for evidence-based solutions. Contribute your expertise and grow with a network making change on the ground.