Prizes for two of our Didida researchers

Two of our African Didida researchers received a prize for their research work.

Prof. Blandina Mmbaga honored with the Maria Kamm Best Female Scientist Award

Prof. Blandina Mmbaga was honored with the prestigious MARIA KAMM BEST FEMALE SCIENTIST AWARD. This award, presented by the National Institute for Medical Research (NIMR), recognizes her significant contributions to medical research and her leadership in transforming the treatment of tuberculosis in Africa. Prof. Mmbaga’s work includes empowering young researchers through training and mentorship, as well as leading multi-country projects aimed at improving TB treatment outcomes and clinical research capacity in Africa.

Prof. Blandina Mmbaga has made significant contributions to tuberculosis (TB) research, particularly through her leadership at the Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute (KCRI). She is involved in several high-impact projects aimed at improving TB diagnostics and treatment in sub-Saharan Africa. One notable initiative is the TWENDE project, which focuses on assessing and enhancing the implementation of molecular diagnostics for TB across East Africa. This project involves multiple institutions, including KCRI, and aims to improve TB diagnosis and treatment accessibility, especially in resource-limited settings

Additionally, Prof. Mmbaga leads clinical trials for second-line TB drugs and research on preventing the side effects of TB treatments. Her work also extends to strengthening clinical research capacity in Tanzania, which includes the establishment of advanced diagnostic laboratories for various infectious diseases.

Through these efforts, Prof. Mmbaga is not only advancing TB research but also mentoring the next generation of researchers, thereby ensuring sustainable progress in the fight against TB and other infectious diseases.

Prof. Gilbert Kokwaro honored with the Ogobara Doumbo Award

Congratulations Prof. Gilbert Kokwaro on being honored with the Ogobara Doumbo Award for Lifelong Achievement on Research and Capacity Building in Malaria, a prestigious recognition of his exceptional contributions to the field.

Prof. Kokwaro is a Professor of Health Systems at Strathmore Business School (SBS) and is currently the Director of the Institute of Healthcare Management at Strathmore University.

Named after the late Professor Ogobara Doumbo, a revered malaria researcher from Mali, the award pays tribute to individuals who have demonstrated unwavering dedication and excellence in malaria research and capacity building efforts. For Professor Kokwaro, this accolade represents the culmination of decades of commitment to advancing our understanding of malaria and fostering research capacity across the African continent.

Professor Kokwaro’s journey in malaria research dates to the inception of the Multilateral Initiative on Malaria, where he was among the first recipients of the MIM Grants in 1998. Since then, his leadership and expertise have been instrumental in shaping the landscape of malaria research, both regionally and internationally. His collaborative spirit and visionary approach have not only propelled scientific advancements but have also inspired a new generation of researchers to pursue excellence in the field.

The significance of Professor Kokwaro’s achievements extends beyond mere accolades; they serve as a testament to the power of dedication, passion, and perseverance in the pursuit of scientific excellence. His pioneering efforts have not only deepened our understanding of malaria but have also paved the way for innovative approaches to prevention, treatment, and control.

At the heart of Professor Kokwaro’s work lies a profound commitment to building research capacity across Africa. Through mentorship, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing initiatives, he has empowered countless researchers to make meaningful contributions to the fight against malaria. His impact reverberates across borders and generations, leaving an indelible mark on the global malaria research community.