NBA staff at a teambuilding exercise in Diani, Kwale County, on 18/2/2026. Photo/Newsflash
By Newsflash Writer
National Biosafety Authority chairperson David Wamatsi Omusotsi, has urged board members and senior management to strengthen teamwork and uphold professionalism to help the agency effectively deliver its mandate.
Speaking during a team-building session held in Diani, Kwale County on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, Omusotsi emphasized the importance of unity, integrity, and collaboration in regulating genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in the country.
He noted that the Authority plays a critical role in overseeing the safe development, transfer, handling, and use of GMOs, adding that achieving this responsibility requires strong partnerships and technical excellence.
Omusotsi also thanked William Ruto for the opportunity to serve as chairperson, saying he was committed to steering the institution toward efficiency and integrity.
Strengthening teamwork and governance
Omusotsi said the team-building exercise was designed to deepen understanding of the Authority’s mission, governance systems, and operational environment, while enhancing trust among staff and board members.
“As an institution, we must deliver on our mandate. No single board member, director or staff can do this alone,” he said, stressing that collective effort was key to institutional success.
Read more: Kenya forms team to implement Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety
He described teamwork as essential in creating an environment where officers feel valued and empowered to contribute ideas, adding that success depends on preparation, hard work, and learning from past failures.
The chairperson pledged to chair efficient board meetings, guide decision-making processes, and ensure board members undergo continuous training to effectively execute their duties. He also committed to encouraging full participation in board deliberations, identifying key deliverables to measure performance, and fostering transparency and accountability within the institution.
Addressing public concerns and misinformation
Omusotsi observed that the Authority operates in a complex environment where misinformation, scientific advancement, and policy shifts influence public perception.
He said issues such as food security, climate resilience, health innovation, and sustainable development have placed the Authority at the center of national discourse, particularly as Kenya embraces science-driven agricultural transformation.
Read more: Court quashes appointment of Nehemiah Ng’etich as NBA boss
“This means our unity, professionalism, and responsiveness must be beyond reproach,” he said.
He further pledged to enhance monitoring and evaluation of the Authority’s performance, ensure compliance with existing laws and regulations, and maintain clear separation of roles between the board and management.
Commitment to partnerships and institutional growth
The chairperson emphasized the need to strengthen partnerships and collaborations to help the Authority achieve its corporate objectives and performance targets.
He also promised to harness the collective skills of board members and management to secure cohesive operations and improved service delivery.
Read more: NBA determined to deliver on its mandate
The session brought together board members, senior management, and the acting Chief Executive Officer, Nehemiah Ngetich, alongside external facilitators.
Omusotsi urged participants to use the training to renew their commitment to excellence and return to their respective stations with renewed energy and clearer communication.
He concluded by officially declaring the team-building exercise open, expressing confidence that strong leadership and quality planning would enable the Authority to fulfill its mandate effectively while advancing national development goals.
About the Author
