This archive report was first published on 17 May 2020.
Kenya's leading research institute, the Kenya Medical Research Institute (Kemri), has embarked on a crucial mission to explore the efficacy of one of its herbal medicines in treating Covid-19.
According to a presentation made by Kemri Director-General Yeri Kombe to the National Assembly Health Committee, Kemri has been approved by the government as the reference centre for testing the efficacy of potential traditional medicines/drugs for Covid-19.
Prof Kombe stated, 'Kemri has commenced exploring efficacy of its in-house product (Zedupex) and other natural products against Covid-19.'
Developed by Kenyan scientists from medicinal trees, Zedupex is a herbal medicine used in the treatment of genital herpes. It is available in powder form and as a cream, and has been licensed by the Pharmacy and Poisons Board since 2015.
Researchers at Kemri's laboratory are currently testing the activity and safety of Zedupex on Covid-19 treatment. The trials are being carried out at the institute's laboratory, and the drug has not been administered to any coronavirus patient.
Meanwhile, the African Union has announced plans to collaborate with Madagascar's health ministry to test the efficacy of the country's herbal remedy for Covid-19, which is based on the artemisia annual plant. The remedy has been sent to several African countries, despite a warning from the World Health Organisation (WHO) about its use.
