Dr. Zipporah Bukania

Deputy Director CPHR

Dr. Zipporah Bukania PhD., is a Research Scientist and Director Centre for Public Health Research, KEMRI. She has strong academic and professional training in applied human nutrition with over 20 years of work experience in both clinical application and research. Her doctoral studies training is in applied human nutrition. She has been involved in a wide range of nutrition research activities focusing majorly on generating evidence to support the implementation of nutrition-related programmes. She has spearheaded nutrition research initiatives ranging from strategy development, review of policy documents, desktop reviews, stakeholders’ analyses studies, development of dietary intake assessment tools, quantitative dietary intake methods, national household surveys, randomized controlled trials and implementation science research in collaboration with partners and stakeholders

Her research interests revolve around food consumptions /dietary intake assessment, micronutrients in hypertension, Animal Source Foods in Nutrition, Desktop review & stakeholder analysis studies and evaluation of nutrition programmes and policies, and Implementation science.

Academic /Professional Profile

Dr Bukania holds a PhD. Human Nutrition & Dietetics, Kenyatta University, MSc. Applied Human Nutrition Nairobi University, 2005 and BSc. Foods and Nutrition University of Eastern Africa, Baraton, 1997

Projects

Selected On-going Projects
  1. Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Animal Health: Aims to enhance livestock productivity, household incomes, food security and human nutrition through East Coast fever control in Narok and Busia Counties, Kenya Program Director/PI Prof Thumbi, Mwangi; Funding Agency: USAID; Partners: WSU/UON/KEMRI/KALRO/ILRI
  2. Investigating Population Health Needs and health systems’ capacity for the implementation of Universal Health Coverage in Kenya. The overall objective of the survey is to investigate health systems capacity and readiness, populations’ perceptions, needs, health service satisfaction and their impact on Universal Health Coverage. Funding Agency: KEMRI /IRG
  3. Kenya National Food Consumption Survey (KeNFCoS) currently in review and resource mobilization ongoing: This will be the first national food consumption Survey. The overall objective of the national Kenya food consumption survey is to describe the food consumption pattern and level of nutrient intake among five vulnerable target groups in Kenya Pre-Survey activities funded by FAO 2020-2021
Projects as Co-investigator
  1. The Kenya Environment and Children’s Study (KECS): Investigating factors influencing the health of children under 5 years in Kwale County with emphasis on potential risks for morbidity and mortality. PI Violet WANJIHIA. Funding Agency: JSPS KAKENHI Grant
  2. Community perceptions, challenges, and coping mechanisms of social distancing in the wake of Corona Virus Disease in Kibera informal settlement, Nairobi, Kenya: PI Elizabeth ECHOKA, Funding Agency: KEMRI/IRG
  3. An assessment of population’s risk perception of COVID-19 infection and factors associated with individual response to interventional guidelines in Kajiado and Machakos counties, Kenya PI Lillian NYANDIEKA funding Agency: KEMRI/IRG
  4. An investigation on the feasibility of medication management system and its effect on health outcomes of HIV patients with comorbid hypertension and/or diabetes in selected health facilities in Kenya: PI: Mercy NJERU. Funding Agency: IBM Research Africa
Selected Completed Projects
  1. Developing and Testing a Feasible food listing tool for processed foods for use in urban areas. Funding Agency: Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition, Switzerland. Findings from this study  were used to develop A Working Guide for Urban Food Listing: Food Listing for Processed Packaged and Vendor-Prepared Foods in Urban Centers for Use in 24-Hour Dietary Recall Surveys. This guide describes a set of methods, tools, and data capture formats that can be used to help identify processed foods commonly consumed in a target geographic area.  2021. GAIN, Intake – Center for Dietary Assessment, KEMRI: (View)
  2. Cost of Hunger in Africa Study (COHA), July 2019. The COHA study in Kenya was led by the National Treasury and Planning, with support from the Kenya Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis (KIPPRA); Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS); Ministry of Health (MoH); Ministry of Education (MoE); Ministry of Labour and Social Protection; Ministry of Agriculture Livestock and Fisheries; Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI); development partners, namely: World Food Programme (WFP)-Kenya; United Nations Children Fund (UNICEF); Nutrition and Health Program plus and Nutrition International (NI), Kenya. At regional level, the COHA project is led by the African Union Commission (AUC) with technical leadership from World Food Programme -Africa Office (WFP).
  3. Effects of Iodine Exposure on Blood Pressure among Female School Children and Women of Reproductive Age in Makueni County, Kenya. PI Zipporah BUKANIA. Funding Agency: Nutricia Foundation, Switzerland
  4. Nutrition vulnerability profiling of patients attending Comprehensive Care Clinics in Kenya. A collaborative study between, KEMRI, National AIDS and STI Control Program (NASCOP) of Ministry of Health, Kenya (MoH)and World Food Programme (WFP). PI Zipporah BUKANIA. Funding Agency: World Food Programme
  5. A Canadian Food Security Research Fund (CIFSRF)International Development Research Centre (IDRC) funded project ‘Enhancing Household Nutritional and Health Outcomes through Innovation for Resilient Farming Systems and Food Security in the Semi-Arid Midlands of Kenya’. Collaboration between Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kenya Agriculture and Livestock Research Organization, McGill University, Canada and Ministry of Agriculture Kenya. Co-PI Zipporah BUKANIA. Funding Agency: CIFSRF/IDRC. Resulting from this project was a book.
  6. NaHeNDA- National Hypertension and Diabetes Survey: Distribution, risk factors and cost effectiveness of Intervention strategies (CCR, CPHR, Welcome Trust-Kilifi) PI Antony ETYANG. Funded by KEMRI IRG.
  7. An assessment of Kenya’s Health System performance and the capacity for the effective coverage of diabetes mellitus and hypertension interventions and services. This project to be implemented alongside NaHeNDA in No. 1 above. Funded by KEMRI grants. Project cost: 30,000PI Kennedy MUNGA: Funding Agency KEMRI IRG/GoK

Selected Publications

  1. Moses Mwangi, Geert Verbeke, Edmund Njeru Njagi, Samuel Mwalili, Anna Ivanova, Zipporah N Bukania & Geert Molenberghs(2021) Improved longitudinal data analysis for cross-over design settings, with a piecewise linear mixed-effects model, Communications in Statistics: Case Studies, Data Analysis and applications, (View)
  2. Edgar Okoth Violet Wanjihiaand Zipporah Bukania. Micronutrient Nutrition Perspectives for Low Income Countries in the Context of COVID-19.  ISSN: 2469-5793. J Fam Med Dis Prev 2021, 7:139 DOI: 23937/2469-5793/1510139 Volume 7 | Issue 2 Open Access DOI: 10.23937/2469-5793/1510139 (View)
  3. Otambo, L. Nyandieka, J. Kariuki, R. Mutisya, E. Echoka1, J. Mutai, M. Karemi, S. Mokua D. Mathu, D. Kariuki & Z. Bukania. Implementation of Universal Health Coverage Program in Kisumu County, Kenya: Importance of Social Marketing Strategies. Social Science, Humanities and Sustainability Research ISSN 2690-3628 (Print) ISSN 2690-3636(Online) Vol. 1, No. 2, 2020. (View)
  4. Rose Okoyo Opiyo, Susan Akoth Nyawade, Michael McCaul, Peter Suwirakwenda Nyasulu Daniel Bolo Lango, Anthony Jude Omolo Were, Esther Clyde Nabakwe, Zipporah Nekesa Bukania and Joyce Muhenge Olen ja. Perceptions on Adherence to Dietary Prescriptions for Adults with Chronic Kidney Disease on Hemodialysis: A Qualitative Study. Diseases 2020, 8, 29; doi:10.3390/diseases8030029 (View)
  5. Rose Okoyo Opiyo Peter Nyasulu, Joyce Olenja, Moleen Zunza, Kim A. Nguyen, Zipporah Bukania, Esther Nabakwe, Alexander Mbogo, Anthony Were. Factors associated with adherence to dietary prescription among adult patients with chronic kidney disease on hemodialysis in national referral hospitals in Kenya: A Mixed-methods survey. BMC renal replacement Therapy Journal, March 2019 (View)
  6. Oyando, Robinson Robinson Oyando, Martin Njoroge, Peter Nguhiu, Antipa Sigilai, Fredrick Kirui, Jane Mbui, Zipporah Bukania, Andrew Obala, Kenneth Munge, Anthony Etyang,  Edwine Barasa, “Patient costs of diabetes mellitus care in public health care facilities in Kenya.” The International Journal of Health Planning and Management 35 (2020): 290 – 308. (View)
  7. Rose Okoyo Opiyo Peter Nyasulu, Joyce Olenja, Moleen Zunza, Kim A. Nguyen, Zipporah Bukania, Esther Nabakwe, Alexander Mbogo, Anthony Were. Factors associated with adherence to dietary prescription among adult patients with chronic kidney disease on hemodialysis in national referral hospitals in Kenya: A Mixed-methods survey. BMC renal replacement Therapy Journal, March 2019 (View)
Dr. Joseph Mutai

Dr. Joseph Mutai

Dr. Dr Mutai holds a PhD in Anthropology (UoN), MA (Sociology, UoN) and BA (Hons, UoN).

Dr. Mutai has participated in the development and implementation of various projects in nutrition, policy development and analysis, health system, household surveys, in communities on varied Biomedical and Behavioral health issues. He has been teaching in various universities since 2009 to-date. He teaches Social Sciences in Health in Masters of Public Health, Environmental, Industrial and Occupational Health and Health Systems and Society (KEMRI Graduate School), Health Systems and Society, Social Sciences in Health and Planning and Evaluation in Health (Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology)

In addition, he is a reviewer of MPH proposals and a member of the Centre Scientific Committee. He is also a reviewer of manuscripts/articles to peer review journals. He is currently a team leader in Assessing Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) in East African Region under the East African Public Health Laboratory Network. He has published widely.

Research Interests

Dr. Mutai’s research interests include: Qualitative and Quantitative Research Methods, Surveys, gender, tobacco, behaviour and diseases and policy development and analysis.

Selected Publications

  1. Mwiti P. K., Dennis M., Opondo E. and Mutai J. (2020, April) Association between child clinical characteristics and retention to scheduled medical appointment among HIV, International Journal of Scientific and Research Publications. Vol. 10 854-859. DOI:10.29322/IJSRP.10.04.2020.p10093
  2. Mwiti P. K., Dennis M., Opondo E. and Mutai J. (2020, March) Factors associated with utilization of VCT services among men attending Ongata Rongai Health centre, Ngong, Kajiado, Kenya. Research Journals, Journal of Public Health. Vol. 6 No. 3
  3. P.Otiende, G. Kikuvi and J. Mutai (2019) Factors associated with uptake of cervical cancer screening among women of reproductive age in Migori County Referral Hospital. European International Journal of Science and Technology Vol. 8 (5) 11-25
  4. Macharia Wambugu, John Gachohi and Joseph Mutai (2019) High uptake of Medically Assisted Therapy among People Who Inject Drugs Associated with Modifiable Factors in Mathare Low Income Settlements, Nairobi, Kenya. Texila International Journal of Public Health, Vol 7(1), March DOI:10.21522/TIJPH.2013.07.01.Art011ISSN: 2520-3134
  5. Purity Wambui Kirori, Viviene Matiru and Joseph Mutai (2019) Determination Of The Sanitary Risk Factors Associated With The Shallow Wells Water Quality In Juja Hostels Kiambu County, Research journal’s Journal of Public Health Ferbruary (View)
  6. Mburu Muiyuro, Kenneth Ngure, Joseph Mutai, Murima Ng‟ang‟a (2019) Adherence to Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy and Associated Factors among HIV Positive Adolescents in Kenya IOSR Journal Of Humanities And Social Science. Vol. 24 (1)8 (January) 17-25 e-ISSN: 2279-0837, p-ISSN: 2279-0845.
  7. Ongeri L., Kirui F., Muniu E., Veronica Manduku V., Kirumbi L., Atwoli L., AgureS., Wanzala P., Kaduka L., Karimi M., Mutisya R., Elizabeth Echoka E., Mutai J., Mathu D. and Mbakaya C.L. (2019) Khat use and psychotic symptoms in a rural Khat growing population in Kenya: a household survey. BMC Psychiatry 5(12)
  8. Safari Agure, LCM Mbakaya, Erastus Muniu, Lydia Kaduka, Leah Kirumbi, Fredrick Kirui, Peter Wanzala, Veronica Manduku, Linnet Ongeri, Joseph Mutai, Elizabeth Echoka, Prisca Otambo, Mercy Karimi (2019) Schooling In The Midst of KHAT Growing, Chewing and Trading IOSR Journal of Research & Method in Education (IOSR-JRME) e-ISSN: 2320–1959.p- ISSN: 2320–1940 Vol 9,(2 Ser. I. (Mar. – Apr) 59-67

Dr. Mercy Karimi Njeru

Dr. Mercy Karimi Njeru is a research scientist involved in the conduct of medical human research. In conducting research, she has taken the lead in various multi-country and multi-sectorial health research projects by providing technical advice and support in planning and implementing research. Her research work has gained global recognition in the application of mixed methods in areas of health systems research as indicated in the following website: Link

She has continually mentored and mentored in the application of Mixed methods. Dr. Njeru earned her PhD in health systems at the University of Bergen- Norway,  Master of International Health at Griffith University Brisbane- Australia to mention a few

Projects
Selected Completed Projects
  1. Co-Investigator (2006–2011): Strengthening Fairness and Accountability in Priority Setting for Improving Equity and Access to Quality Health Care in Malindi District, Kenya (REACT).
  2. Principal Investigator (2007-2011): Assessment of Equity, Responsiveness and Priority- setting processes in HIV/AIDS prevention and care: A study of health care workers, users and community members of Malindi district, Kenya.
  3. Co- Investigator (2013-2016) Project title: Industrial Productivity, Health Sector Performance and Policy Synergies for Inclusive Growth: A Study in Tanzania and Kenya
Selected Ongoing Funded Projects
  1. Principal investigator –Kenya (2018- current): Linking industrial and social innovation for inclusive development in health care: An investigation of the case of cancer care in Kenya. (Click Here)
  2. Principal Investigator (2018 to current) Project title: An evaluation of the medication management system on health outcomes of patients with HIV comorbid hypertension and/or diabetes in selected health facilities in Kenya.
  3. Co- Investigator (2015- on-going) Project Title: Measuring the Usability, effectiveness and sustainability and scalability of the Guidelines Adherence tool
Selected Publications
  1. Kleczka B, Kumar P, Njeru MK, Musienga A, Wekesa P, Rabut G and Marx M (2019), Using rubber stamps and mobile phones to help understand and change antibiotic prescribing behaviour in private sector primary healthcare clinics in Kenya BMJ Global Health doi:10.1136
  2. Mackintosh M, Tibandebage P, Njeru MK, Kungu JK, Israel C and Mujinja PG (2018). Rethinking health sector procurement as developmental linkages in East Africa Social science and medicine 200 (182-189)
  3. Mackintosh M, Mugwangwa J, Banda G, Tibandebage P, Tunguhole J, Wangwe S, and Njeru MK, (2018). Health-industry linkages for local health:Reframing policies for African health system strengthening Heath Policy and Planning (1-9)
  4. Nyandieka LM, Njeru MK, Ng’ang’a Z, Echoka E, Kombe Y. (2016) Male Involvement in Maternal Health Planning Key to Utilization of Skilled Birth Services in Malindi Advances in Public Health 2016 (2016)
  5. Nyandieka LM, Kombe Y, Ng’ang’a Z, Byskov J, Njeru MK. (2015) An assessment of priority setting process and its implication on availability of emergency obstetric care services in Malindi District, Kenya The Pan African Medical Journal 22(156)
  6. Njeru MK, Blystad A, Shayo EH, Nyamongo IK and Fylkesnes K. (2011). Practicing provider-initiated HIV testing in high prevalence settings: consent concerns and missed preventive opportunities BMC Health Service Research 11(87)
  7. Njeru MK, Blystad A, Nyamongo IK and Fylkesnes K. (2009). A critical assessment of the WHO responsiveness tool: lessons from voluntary HIV testing and counselling services in Kenya BMC Health Service Research 9(243)
  8. Book chapter: Mackintosh M, Tibandebage P, Kungu JK, Njeru MK and Israel C. (2016). Health Systems as Industrial Policy: Building Collaborative Capabilities in the Tanzanian and Kenyan Health Sectors and Their Local Suppliers Maureen M, Banda G, Tibandebage P and Wamae W. in Making Medicines in Africa: the political economy of industrializing for Local Health (pp 147-165) UK : Palgrave Macmillan. Link: Chapter 8 Book Link

Dr. Elizabeth Echoka - Wafula

Dr. Echoka is currently the Deputy Director, Research Capacity Building at the KEMRI Graduate School. She is in charge of training and academic affairs at the KEMRI Graduate School. Additionally, she is involved in the Teaching and supervision of postgraduate students.

Dr. Echoka is a researcher developing and implementing research proposals addressing sexual, reproductive, adolescent, maternal, and child health and nutrition, including health systems issues through; Protocol development, Mobilisation of research funds, Project implementation and management, Data analysis and interpretation, report writing, and Dissemination of research findings.

Dr. Echoka is also a member of the KEMRI Scientific and Ethics Review Unit (SERU)

Selected Publications

  1. Elizabeth Echoka and Lydia Kaduka: Maternal malnutrition affects future generations. Kenya must break the cycle. The Conversation. October 4, 2016 (Link)
  2. Erick KiprotichYegon, Peter KabanyaMwaniki, Elizabeth Echoka, Joachim Osur: Correlates of individual-level stigma and unsafe abortions among women seeking abortion care in Trans Nzoia and Machakos Counties, Kenya.Annals of Tropical Medicine and Public HealthVol 9 no.4 July 2016  (Link)
  3. Erick Kiprotich Yegon, Peter Kabanya Mwaniki, Elizabeth Echoka, Joachim Osur: Abortion Related Stigma: A Case Study of Abortion Stigma in Regions with High And Low Incidences Of Unsafe Abortion. East African Medical Journal Vol. 93 No. 3 March 2016 (Link)
  4. Erick KiprotichYegon, Peter KabanyaMwaniki, Elizabeth Echoka, Joachim Osur: Understanding abortion-related stigma and incidence of unsafe abortion: experiences from community members in Machakos and Trans Nzoia counties Kenya. Pan Afr Med J. 2016; 24: 258. (Link)
  5. Martin KavaoMutua; Elizabeth Kimani-Murage; Nicholas Ngomi; HenrikRavn; Peter Mwaniki; Elizabeth Echoka. Fully immunized child: Coverage, timing and sequencing of routine immunization in an urban poor settlement in Nairobi, Kenya. Tropical Medicine and Health (2016) 44:13 (Link)

Dr. Lydia Kaduka

Dr. Kaduka is a Principal Research Officer at Centre for Public Health Research in KEMRI. Her formal doctoral training is in Medical Biochemistry and she pursued post-doctoral training in Healthcare Management. She has largely focused on NCDs, and stroke & cardiovascular diseases in particular. She has served as PI/Co-PI/Co-investigator on numerous projects, and marshaled and led research teams, mentored young investigators, and provided scientific direction in her line of work.

Presently she serves as PI on a joint Medical Research Council (MRC, Cambridge, UK) – National Research Foundation (NRF, Nairobi, Kenya) Newton grant entitled, “Strengthening Primary Care Systems for Prevention & Control of Cardiovascular Diseases in Kenya: Feasibility Study of Health Kiosks in Markets”. This is a system-led intervention study to improve the reach and sustainability of cardiovascular disease prevention and health promotion interventions in communities through market-based health kiosks, in an effort to address inequalities in health care access. She currently serves on the Kenya National CVD Technical Working Group, and Chairs the Kenya National CVD Research and Monitoring and Evaluation Sub-Committee.

Selected Publications

  1. Safari Agure, LCM Mbakaya, Erastus Muniu, Lydia Kaduka, Leah Kirumbi, Fredrick Kirui, Peter Wanzala, Veronica Manduku, Linnet Ongeri, Joseph Mutai, Elizabeth Echoka , Prisca Otambo , Mercy Karimi: Schooling in the Midst of KHAT Growing, Chewing and Trading IOSR Journal of Research & Method in Education Volume 9, Issue 2 Mar- Apr PP 59-67,2019
  2. Linnet Ongeri, Fredrick Kirui, Erastus Muniu, Veronica Manduku, Leah Kirumbi, Lukoye Atwoli, Safari Agure, Peter Wanzala, Lydia Kaduka, Mercy Karimi, Richard Mutisya, Elizabeth Echoka, Joseph Mutai, David Mathu and Charles Mbakay: Khat use and psychotic symptoms in a rural Khat growing population in Kenya: a household survey. BMC Psychiatry 2019; 19:137.
  3. Kaduka L., Muniu E., Mbui J., et al. Disability-adjusted life years due to stroke in Kenya. Neuroepidemiology 2019; doi 10.1159/000498970
  4. Bukania Z, Van der Haar F, Mwangi M, Mugambi G, Murage L, Mwai J, Ng’ang’a J, Kaduka L, Ndemwa P, Wanyoike C and Y Kombe: Iodine Status And Sources Of Dietary Iodine Intake In Kenyan Women And Children. Afr. J. Food Agric. Nutr. Dev. 2019; 19(2): 14218-14243.
  5. Martin N. Mwangi, Elizabeth Echoka, Marthe Knijff, Lydia Kaduka, Brenda G. Werema, Frida M. Kinya, Richard Mutisya.: Iron Status of Kenyan Pregnant Women after Adjusting for Inflammation Using BRINDA Regression Analysis and Other Correction Methods. Nutrients 2019:11; 420.

Dr. Priscah C.N. Otambo

Research Scientist

Dr. Otambo is a public health research and training professional (Social Scientist), with keen interest in HIV/AIDS, gender and health, Health Systems  and community development. She has over 20 years working experience both in administrative and scientific fields with priority in identifying, developing, implementing, and managing quantitative and qualitative research in public health. Outstanding communication and writing skills; able to work in a team and independently; prioritize and meet deadlines.

Dr. Otambo is the chairperson of the Gender Mainstreaming Committee, Head Social Sciences Division and a member of Violence and Injury Prevention Technical Working Group, Ministry of Health, and also a  Fellow, African Women in Agricultural Research and Development.

Academic and Professional Qualifications
  • BA – (Hons) Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (2006)
  • MA – Medical Sociology – Nairobi University (2009)
  • PhD – Public Health – Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture & Technology (2018)

Selected Publications

  1. Otambo P.  C. N, Mburugu E, Korir R,(2013) Quality of Life of Women living with HIV and AIDS in     Korogocho Slums, Nairobi, Kenya: Afr J Health Sci. 2013; 24:149-157
  2. P.C.N. Otambo et al (2016)Accessibility to, acceptability of and adherence to HIV/AIDS prevention services by men who have sex with men: Challenges encountered at facility level  – Advances in Public Health ,Volume 2016.
  3. Otambo P.C.N., Mathu D.1 Mutai J., Agure S., Ongadi B. Makokha A., Karama M.:Factors associated with uptake of HIV/AIDS prevention services among men who have sex with men in Nairobi County. July 14, 2016 HIV/AIDS, Volume29_4 1 Comment
  4. Otambo, L. Nyandieka, J. Kariuki, R. Mutisya, E. Echoka1, J. Mutai, M. Karemi, S. Mokua, D. Mathu, D. Kariuki & Z. Bukania: Implementation of Universal Health Coverage Program in Kisumu County, Kenya: Importance of Social Marketing Strategies : Social Science, Humanities and Sustainability Research, Vol. 1, No. 2, 2020 (View Publication)
  5. Otambo P, Mbui J., Ongeri L. & Kokonya D;  Association of Substance Use and Gender Based Violence among Students in a Tertiary Institution in Kakamega County, Kenya: Social Science, Humanities and Sustainability Research Vol. 1, No. 2, 2020 (View Publication)
  6. Safari Agure, LCM Mbakaya, Erastus Muniu, Lydia Kaduka, Leah Kirumbi, Fredrick Kirui, Peter Wanzala, Veronica Manduku, Linnet Ongeri, Joseph Mutai, Elizabeth Echoka , Prisca Otambo , Mercy Karimi;   Schooling In The Midst of KHAT Growing, Chewing and Trading:   IOSR Journal of Research & Method in Education, Volume 9, Issue 2 Mar- Apr 2019 PP 59-67

Dr. Judy Mwai

Research Scientist

Dr. Judy Mwai is a public health scientist currently working at the Kenya Medical Research Institute since 2007. She is a seasoned researcher with over 10 years’ experience in implementation research. She has a keen interest on Environmental Sciences, specifically Water Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) Programmes.

In KEMRI-Centre for Public Health Research- she is responsible for identification of research gaps in human health and developing research protocols to facilitate investigations. She doubles up as the Scientific Lead at the KEMRI Grantsmanship Office in-charge of pre-awards processes. She has coordinated WASH research projects, authored and co-authored various research papers in public health. She has also disseminated her research findings in various fora. Dr. Mwai is a member of the Young East African Research Scientists (YEARS), an initiative of East Africa Commission that seeks to mentor and nurture young Scientists. She is the National coordinator – Kenya Chapter.

Dr. Mwai holds a PhD in Public Health from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology and a Master of Science Degree in Public health from the same university. She holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree majoring in Sociology from University of Nairobi and a Diploma in Healthcare Management from Kenya Institute of Management. She is also certified with NEMA to conduct Environmental Impact Assessments and Audits.

Dr. Violet W. Wanjihia

Research Scientist

Dr. Violet Wanjihia has over eighteen years of research experience in Public Health, Nutrition and Maternal Child Health research. Her research interests are in Public Health Nutrition,Non-communicable diseases, Nutritional Programming and Drug addiction. Her current research seeks to establish the role of maternal factors in contributing to Non-communicable diseases susceptibility in offspring, later in life (Nutritional Programming). She is also engaged in teaching and supervising post-graduate students at the KEMRI Graduate School under the ITROMID Programme and also within Nagasaki University, Institute of Tropical Medicine where she is also involved in collaborative research.

Violet is also a reviewer for various Scientific bodies within and outside KEMRI and is currently a member of the Daystar University IRB.

Academic and Professional Qualifications
  • PhD (Nutritional Sciences, Tokushima University- Japan)
  • MPH (Kenyatta University-Kenya)
  • B.Ed Home-Econ- Hons (Kenyatta University-Kenya)
View Publication
  1. Edgar Okoth, Violet Wanjihia and Zipporah Bukania. Micronutrient Nutrition Perspectives for Low Income Countries in the Context of COVID-19. J Fam Med Dis Prev. 2021; 7:139 (View Publication)
  2. Wanjihia VW, Chepkirui F, Hitachi M, Muniu E, Nyandieka L, Ndemwa P, Wekesa N, Changoma J, Kiplamai F, Karama M and Kaneko S. The Association between Nutritional Knowledge, Socio- Economic Status of Caregivers and Stunting of Children Under 5 Years in Kwale County of Kenya: A Baseline Survey. Austin J Nutr Metab. 2021; 8(2): 1105. (View Publication)
  3. Mami Hitachi , Violet Wanjihia , Lilian Nyandieka , Chepkirui Francesca , Norah Wekesa , Juma Changoma , Erastus Muniu , Phillip Ndemwa , Sumihisa Honda , Kenji Hirayama , Mohammed Karama and Satoshi Kaneko (2020) Improvement of Dietary Diversity and Attitude toward Recommended Feeding through Novel Community Based Nutritional Education Program in Coastal Kenya—An Intervention Study. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 202017(19), 7269. (View Publication)
  4. Junichi Tanaka, Kazuko Yoshizawa, Kenji Hirayama, Mohamed Karama, Violet Wanjihia, Mwatasa Salim Changoma, Satoshi Kaneko (2019). Relationship between dietary patterns and stunting in pre-school children: a cohort analysis from Kwale, Kenya. Public Health 173: 58-68. (View Publication)
  5. Catherine Mwangi , Simon Karanja, John Gachohi, Violet Wanjihia, Zipporah Ngang’a. (2019). Depression, injecting drug use and risky sexual behavior syndemic among women who inject Drugs in Kenya: a cross-sectional survey. Harm Reduction Journal 2019 16:35 (View Publication)
  6. Mwangi C, Karanja S, Gachohi J, Wanjihia V, Ng’ang’a Z (2019). Assessment of Retrospective and Current Substance Use in Women Who Inject Drugs in Low-Income Urban Settings in Kenya. J Alcohol Drug Depend 7: 324.(View Publication)

Erastus Mwangi Muniu

Erastus has an academic background in the area of statistics and in research activities. His expertise is in the area of research designs, determining the sample size needed for projects, sampling, and data management which include the application of various statistical analysis methods to research data in order to make inferences. He has been involved in research projects in the area of nutrition for a period spanning over 20 years and lately extended to nutrition & cancer plus other Non-communicable diseases (NCDs). In collaboration with other researchers, he has produced several peer-reviewed publications from these projects.

In addition, Erastus has been involved in teaching Biostatistics to students at the Institute of Tropical Medicine and Infectious Diseases (ITROMID) and mentoring students on Industrial attachment and Interns.

Selected Publications

  1. Mwaniki, D., Radol, J.W.O., Muniu, E. and Manji, F: The occurrence and pattern of facial bone fractures in Nairobi, Kenya. EAMJ 1988; 65(11): 759-763.
  2. Chunge, R.N., Wamola, I.A., Kinoti, S.N., Mutanda, L.N., Nagelkerke, N., Muthami, L., Muttunga, J., Muniu, E., Simwa, J.M., Karumba, P.N. and Kabiru, P.: Mixed infections in childhood diarrhoea: results of a community study in Kiambu District, kenya. EAMJ 1989; 66(11): 715-23.
  3. Muniu, E.; Katsivo, M.N.; Mwaura L.W and Amuyunzu, M.: Fatal non-transport injuries in Nairobi, Kenya. EAMJ, 1994; 71(6): 346-349.
  4. Katsivo M.N., Mwaura L.W., Muniu, E. and Amuyunzu, M.: Accidents involving adults in the home environment in Nairobi, Kenya. EAMJ 1994; 71(6): 350-353.
  5. Mwaura L.W., Katsivo M.N.; Amuyunzu, M. and Muniu E.: Childhood accidents in an urban community in Kenya. EAMJ 1994; 71(8): 506-509.
  6. Nordberg E., Mwobobia I.K and Muniu E.: Hospital catchment areas and surgery in Meru district, Kenya. EAMJ 1995; 72(2): 127-129.

James Ngumo Kariuki

Research Scientist

Mr. Ngumo has over 20 years work experience in conducting research in health systems research; knowledge management & knowledge translation; training and capacity building for human resource in health; partnering in inter-regional collaborative projects in health and water sectors.

His current research inclinations include conducting research in strategic management especially in the aspect of the health related public-private partnerships (PPPs).

In addition, Mr. Ngumo has valuable experience in handling and managing large data using MS Access / Visual Basic (VB) software as well as Open Data Kit (ODK) software (mobile data collection technologies).

Career interests

Data analytics, health systems strengthening & knowledge management

Academic and Professional Qualifications
  • Master of Business Administration – University of Nairobi
  • Postgraduate Diploma in Health Systems Management, Galilee College (Israel)
  • Postgraduate Diploma (Research Methodology) , University of Copenhagen (Denmark)
Awards
  • July 2019: National Research Grant 2016/2017 award recipient.
Selected Publications
  1. Kariuki JN, Kaburi J, Musuva R, et al. Research Dissemination Strategies Used by Kenya Medical Research Institute Scientists. E Afr Health Res J. 2019;3(1):70-78. (View Publication)
  2. Oghera W., Ooga, O., Orare D., Wambura F., Chimbevo ML. Kariuki JN., Wang’ombe A. (2017). GBV Determinants of Survival of HIV-HAART Naive Patients to HAART Initiation at Bondo Sub-County Hospital: A Two Year Retrospective Cohort Study. International Journal of HIV/AIDS Prevention, Education and Behavioural Science. 3, No. 2, 2017, pp. 7-14.
  3. Ngorett FC., Kariuki JN., Kariuki JKK., (2016). An Assessment of Information Communication Technology Content, Context and Process Dimensions in Public Health Facilities in Machakos and Nairobi Counties. East African Medical Journal. Volume 93. No.5. September 2016.
  4. Muchiri F., Kariuki JN., Otundo D., Mwangandi L., Karanja S., (2016). Cost-Efficient Evaluation of Ambulance Services for Community Critical Care Transport Needs in Machakos County, Kenya. East African Medical Journal. Volume 93. No.5. May 2016.

For full list of publications, click here

Mr. Aggrey Gisiora Mokaya

Research Scientist

Mr. Aggrey Gisiora Mokaya is Research Scientist in the Environmental Occupational and Industrial Health Research Unit at the Centre for Public Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute. He has over 10 years’ experience in research studies in Kenya across various themes including environment, mental health, food security and nutrition. Aggrey is specialized in Statistics, RCT panel studies and impact studies on effects of interventions on populations over time.

His current research interests include child and adolescent mental health, community-based participatory research, and water-based epidemiology.

Academic and Professional Qualifications
Academic Qualifications
  • PhD in Public Health – JKUAT(Ongoing)
  • MSc in Public Health – JKUAT 2016
  • BSc in Environmental Health – Moi University 2010
Professional Associations
  • Member, Royal Society for Tropical Medicine and Hygiene, 2017 – Present
  • Member, Environmental Institute of Kenya, 2017 – Present
  • Public Health Officer, Public Health Officers and Technicians Council, 2016 – Present.
Academic and Professional Qualifications
  1. Clair, V., Rossa-Roccor, V., Mokaya, A. G., Mutiso, V., Musau, A., Tele, A., Ndetei, D. M., & Frank, E. (2019). Peer- and Mentor-Enhanced Web-Based Training on Substance Use Disorders: A Promising Approach in Low-Resource Settings. Psychiatric Services, 70(11), 1068–1071. (View Publication)
  2. Mokaya, A. G., Mutiso, V., Musau, A., Tele, A., Kombe, Y., Ng’ang’a, Z., … & Clair, V. (2016). Substance Use among a Sample of Healthcare Workers in Kenya: A Cross-Sectional Study. Journal of Psychoactive Drugs48(4), 310-319. (View Publication)
  3. Mokaya, A. G. (2016). ICT4HEALTH: The Case for E-Learning as a Platform for Continuing Mental Health Education in Kenya. In Towards Excellence in Research and Innovation in a Contemporary World. The 3rd Annual Baraton International Interdisciplinary Research Conference. Kapsabet, Kenya. (View Publication)
  4. Clair, V., Mutiso, V., Mokaya, A. G., Musau, A., Frank, E., & Ndetei, D. M. (2016). Decreasing Stigma towards Alcohol, Tobacco and other Substance Use through Online Training.In Rates, B. I. (2016). 2016 ASAM Annual Poster Presenter Abstracts. Retrieved from (View Publication)
  5. Clair, V., Mutiso, V., Musau, A., Tele, A., Mokaya, A. G., Frank, E., &Ndetei, D. M. (2016). Health Workers Learned Brief Intervention Online through NextGenU.org and Deliver them effectively In.Rates, B. I. (2016). 2016 ASAM Annual Poster Presenter Abstracts. Retrieved from (View Publication)
  6. Ndetei, D. M., Mutiso, V., Musyimi, C., Mokaya, A. G., Anderson, K. K., McKenzie, K., & Musau, A. (2016). The prevalence of mental disorders among upper primary school children in Kenya. Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology, 51(1), 63–71. (View Publication)

Ismail Adow

Ismail Adow has experience in Public health, Nutrition, Social Behavior Change and Communication( SBCC), and Biomedical research.

Adow has previously worked with Save the Children International as a Nutrition Communication for the development officer and Hygiene Promoter at Médecins Sans Frontières, Swiss.

Ongoing Projects

Ongoing Project as Principal investigator:
  • Uptake of Antenatal care service among women of reproductive age in Mandera County, Kenya sponsored by child health Foundation, USA.
Ongoing Project as Co-investigator.
  • Strengthening counties health workers’ capacity for evidence-based decisions uses and intervention support systems through more effective application of knowledge at the stage of priority setting in Kenya sponsored by National Research Fund.
  • Assessing Population Health Needs and health systems’ capacity for the implementation of Universal Health Coverage in Kenya sponsored by Government of Kenya.

Lilian Nyamusi Nyandieka

Research Scientist
Research Interests
  1. Health priority setting
  2. Maternal and child health
  3. NCDs, patient and Caregiver support
  4. Mental wellbeing
  5. Alcohol abuse and community health

Lilian is currently involved in research on: Access to cancer care in Kenya; The effect of Nutritional counselling of primary caregivers and peer support on the Nutritional status of children under 5 years; Universal Health Coverage in Kenya; and the effect of Gestational Diet, Gestational Diabetes and Maternal Obesity on Nutritional Programming in offspring.

Academic and Professional Qualifications
  • M.A. (Sociology) – Ch. Charan Singh University, India
  • B.A. (Sociology and Public Administration) – Kurukshetra University, India
  • Diploma – Counselling Psychology (2017-2019) – Amani Counselling Centre & Training Institute

Selected Publications

  1. Hitachi, M., Wanjihia, V., Nyandieka, L., Francesca, C., Wekesa, N., Changoma, J., Muniu, E., et al. (2020). Improvement of Dietary Diversity and Attitude toward Recommended Feeding through Novel Community Based Nutritional Education Program in Coastal Kenya—An Intervention Study. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health17(19), 7269. MDPI AG. (View Publication)
  2. Lilian Nyamusi Nyandieka, Mercy Karimi Njeru, Zipporah Ng’ang’a, Elizabeth Echoka, and Yeri Kombe. Male Involvement in Maternal Health Planning Key to Utilization of Skilled Birth Services in Malindi Sub-county, Kenya. Hindawi Publishing Corporation. Advances in Public Health Volume 2016; (View Publication)
  3. Lilian Nyamusi Nyandieka, Yeri Kombe, Zipporah Ng’ang’a, Jens Byskov, Mercy Karimi Njeru. An assessment of priority setting process and its implication on availability of emergency obstetric care services in Malindi District, Kenya. The Pan African Medical Journal. 2015;22:156. (View Publication)
  4. Jens Byskov, Bruno Marchal, Stephen Maluka, Joseph M Zulu, Salome A Bukachi, Anna-Karin Hurtig, Astrid Blystad, Peter Kamuzora, Charles Michelo, Lillian N Nyandieka, et al and the REACT Consortium. The accountability for reasonableness approach to guide priority setting in health systems within limited resources – findings from action research at district level in Kenya, Tanzania, and Zambia. Health Research Policy and Systems 2014, 12:49 : (View Publication)
  5. Elizabeth Echoka, Anselimo Makokha, Dominique Dubourg, Yeri Kombe, Lillian Nyandieka, Jens Byskov. Barriers to emergency obstetric care services: accounts of survivors of life threatening obstetric complications in Malindi District, Kenya. Pan Africa Medical Journal. 2014;17(Supp 1):4 : (View Publication)
  6. Lilian N Nyandieka, Annabel Bowden, John Wanjau and Julia A Fox-Rushby. Managing a household survey: a practical example from the KENQOL survey. Health Policy Plan. (2002) 17 (2): 207-212
  7. Otambo, L. Nyandieka, J. Kariuki, R. Mutisya, E. Echoka1, J. Mutai, M. Karemi, S. Mokua, D. Mathu, D. Kariuki & Z. Bukania: Implementation of Universal Health Coverage Kisumu Program in County, Kenya: Importance of Social Marketing Strategies : Social Science, Humanities and Sustainability Research, Vol. 1, No. 2, 2020 (View Publication)

Moses Mwangi

Mr. Mwangi is a trained Biostatistician, with 16 years’ hands-on experience in Biomedical Research. His current area of Statistical concentration is Joint Models for Longitudinal and Survival data.

Mr. Mwangi also has extensive modeling experience using Statistical procedures such as Linear Mixed-Effects Models (LMM), Generalized Linear Models (GLM), Generalized Estimating Equations (GEE) and Cox-Proportional Hazards (CoxPH) Regression. Am currently registered for a PhD in Biostatistics at the University of Hasselt Belgium, constantly working in a modeling environment with renowned modeling experts and professors in Europe

Selected Publications

  1. Fred Orina; Moses Mwangi; Hellen Meme; Benson Kitole; Evans Amukoye. Intrinsic and extrinsic factors associated with sputum characteristics of presumed tuberculosis patients. September 2019; PLOS ONE.
  2. Lucas Luvai A. Asaava, Michael M. Gacheru, Moses Mwangi, Edwin Mwangi, Ernest Juma, Ruth Moraa, Adan Halakhe, Willie Abela Githui. A cross-sectional epidemiological investigation of nontuberculous mycobacteria of public health importance in slaughter camels in Samburu County, Kenya. Springer Nature; Tropical Animal Health Production; (Link)
  3. Mwangi M, Wanzala P, Sang WK, Kiptoo M, Kariuki JN, Githui WA. Does Choice of Spot, Morning or Both Sputum Samples Determine Optimal Performance of a Tuberculosis Diagnostic Tool?. Afr J Health Sci. 2019; 32(1)supp: ISSN 1022 – 9272.
  4. Githui W.A, Mwangi M., Sang W., Juma E., Aberi R., Kiptoo M., Wanzala P. Reproducibility of results and Performance of TB Diagnostics in East Africa Public Health Laboratory Networking Project in Kenya. Afr J Health Sci. 2019; 32(1)supp: ISSN 1022 – 9272.
  5. Wanzala P., Mwangi M., Sang W., Kiptoo M., Githui W.A. Exposure and Clinical Features Associated with Culture Positivity among Patients Presumed to have TB Disease in the East Africa Public Health Laboratory Networking – Operational Research Project sites, Kenya. Afr J Health Sci. 2019; 32(1)supp: ISSN 1022 – 9272.

Merab P. Odero

Senior Research Scientist

Mrs. Merab Pamela Odero is a Senior Research Scientist at the Centre of Public Health (CPHR)KEMRI, in the Social and Biomedical Science Unit.

Lectured in Demography and Research Methodology in ITROMID, 2003-2015.

Supervisor to Master students. Her research interest are in Gender Based violence (GBV) and HIV, Child Maltreatment prevention, Adverse childhood experiences, conducting National Population and housing Census and Demographic and Health Surveys.

Academic and Professional Qualifactions

PhD Public Health Student Makerere University, PGD BMRM, UON; M.A. Population Studies, University of Ghana; PGD in Population Studies, UON; PGD Education, UON, B,A. Sociology and Geography

Selected Publications

  1. Abigail M. Hatcher, Patrizia Romito , Merab Odero , Elizabeth A. Bukusi ,Maricianah Onono & Janet M. Turan (2013). Social context and drivers of intimate partner violence in rural Kenya: implications for the health of pregnant women, Culture, Health & Sexuality: An International Journal for Research, Intervention and Care, 15:4, 404-419, DOI:1080/13691058.2012.760205; (View Publication)
  2. Merab Odero, Abigail M. Hatcher, Chenoia Bryant, Maricianah Onono, Patrizia Romito,Elizabeth Bukusi and Janet M.Turan(2013). Responses to and Resources for Intimate Partner Violence: Qualitative Findings from Women, Men, and Service Providers in Rural Kenya. (View Publication)
  3. Turan, Abigail M. Hatcher, Merab Odero, Maricianah Onono, Jannes Kodero, Patrizia Romito ,EmilyMangone, and Elizabeth A. Bukusi(2013). A Community-Supported Clinic-Based Program for Prevention of Violence against Pregnant Women in Rural Kenya. Hindawi Publishing Corporation AIDS Research and Treatment Volume 2013, Article ID 736926, 10 pages. (View Publication)
  4. Janet M. Turan, Abigail M. Hatcher, Patrizia Romito, Emily Mangone, Modupeoluwa Durojaiye, Merab Odero & Carol S. Camlin (2015): Intimate partner violence and forced migration during pregnancy: Structural constraints to women’s agency, Global Public Health: An International Journal for Research, Policy and Practice, DOI: 1080/17441692.2015.1030684 (View Publication)
  5. Hans O. Lobel, Meghan A. Baker, Franz A. Gras, Gail M. Stennies, Petra Meerburg, Elizabeth Hiemstra, Monica Parise, Merab Odero, Peter Waiyaki (2001). Use of Malaria Prevention Measures by North American and European Travelers to East Africa. Journal of Travel Medicine 8 (4), 167–172. (View Publication)
  6. The Prevalence and Knowledge of Emergency Contraceptive Pills (ECP’s) among women in Kibera, Nairobi . Mutie I, Odero M, Ng’ang’a M, Mbugua G (October, 2012). (View Publication)

Ms. Sharon M. Mokua

Ms. Sharon is a global health graduate currently working in KEMRI as a Research Scientist with a keen interest in health systems and policy research, sexual, reproductive, adolescent, and maternal and child health and non-communicable diseases.

Sh has experience in successfully identifying, developing, implementing and managing quantitative and qualitative research projects in public health both as a Co-Principal Investigator and Co-Investigator. As a Co-Principal Investigator, I have managed the inception, development, implementation and dissemination of a Kenyan National funded study “A rapid situation analysis on population needs for Universal Health Coverage in government selected pilot counties, Kenya” which has contributed to evidence on how best to ensure entire population health coverage for Kenyans.

Additionally, she has worked in a team to assess the impact of delivering ICCM and maternal and newborn care interventions using an innovative community health model in Busia County, Kenya where the findings have contributed greatly to strengthening Primary Health Care in Kenya

Completed Research Support

  • Co-Principal investigator– A rapid situation analysis on population needs for universal health coverage in government selected Pilot Counties, Kenya
    IRG KEMRI 01/2019- 08/2019
    Major Goal(s): The overall goal of the project was to explore population-driven needs for an effective Universal Health Coverage program in the selected pilot counties of Isiolo, Kisumu, Machakos, and Nyeri. This included assessing the challenges at levels 2 and 3 facilities so that they can be strengthened to reduce influx in levels 4 and 5 facilities and assessment of actual health workforce.
  • Co-Investigator- An assessment of the impact of delivering ICCM and maternal and newborn care interventions using an innovative community health model in Busia County, Kenya

 Living Goods Funding- 2018
 Major Goals: The overall objective of the project was to evaluate the impact of implementing ICCM of malaria,         diarrhea, pneumonia, as well as core MNCH interventions and malaria case management for under five using the LG community health model

  • Co-Investigator- Makueni County health workers’ capacity to acquire, summarize and adopt research evidence for decision-making processes
    IRG Grant –KEMRI- 09/2017- 08 /2018
    Major Goals: The main goal of the project was to assess Makueni County Health workers’ capacity to acquire and summarize previous research outputs (knowledge management), to identify barriers associated with the adoption of research outputs among the health workers (knowledge translation) and to develop a research utilization model that would assist in incorporating evidence to inform priority decision making in health service delivery in Makueni County.

Ms. Sarah Karanja

Research Scientist

Ms. Karanja is a Social Scientist with over ten years’ experience in public health research and evaluation in the areas of HIV/AIDs, Malaria, Tuberculosis, and reproductive maternal, newborn child, and adolescent health. She has extensive experience in developing research and evaluation protocols, manuscripts and policy briefs, business development, building partnerships, and research capacity building. She has supported research and evaluation projects in Kenya, Ethiopia, Uganda, South Sudan, and Zambia.

She has been a Principal Investigator in a study assessing community-based approaches to improve equity in nomadic populations in Kenya and a co-investigator in numerous studies. She has keen interest in health policy and systems research.

Academic and Professional Qualifications
  • Msc. Global Bioethics, Anahuac University
  • MA Medical Sociology, University of Nairobi
  • BA Sociology and Literature, University of Nairobi
Selected Publications
  1. Muhula, S., Mveyange, A., Oti, S.O., Bande, M., Kayiaa, H., Leshore, C., Kawai, D., Opanga, Y., Marita, E., Karanja, S. and Smet, E., 2021. The impact of community led alternative rite of passage on eradication of female genital mutilation/cutting in Kajiado County, Kenya: A quasi-experimental study. Plos one, 16(4), p.e0249662.
  2. Marita EO, Gichuki R, Watulo E, Thiam S, Karanja S (2021) Determinants of quality in home-based management of malaria by community health volunteers in rural Kenya. J Infect Dev Ctries 15:897-903. doi: 10.3855/jidc.13565
  3. Karijo, E., Wamugi, S., Lemanyishoe, S., Njuki, J., Boit, F., Kibui, V., Karanja, S. and Abuya, T., 2021. Knowledge, attitudes, practices, and the effects of COVID-19 among the youth in Kenya. BMC Public Health, 21(1), pp.1-13.
  4. Karanja, S., Gichuki, R., Igunza, P., Muhula, S., Ofware, P., Lesiamon, J., Leshore, L., Kyomuhangi-Igbodipe, L.B., Nyagero, J., Binkin, N. and Ojakaa, D., 2018. Factors influencing deliveries at health facilities in a rural Maasai Community in Magadi sub-County, Kenya. BMC pregnancy and childbirth, 18(1), p.5.
  5. Kinaro, J. W., Wangalwa, G., Karanja, S., Adika, B., Lengewa, C., & Masitsa, P. (2018). Socio-Cultural Barriers Influencing Utilization of Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) Information and Services among Adolescents and Youth 10-24 Years in Pastoral Communities in Kenya. Advances in Sexual Medicine9(1), 1-16.
  6. Patel, A. R., Lester, R. T., Marra, C. A., van der Kop, M. L., Ritvo, P., Engel, L., Karanja, S., Lynd, L. D. (2017). The validity of the SF-12 and SF-6D instruments in people living with HIV/AIDS in Kenya. Health and Quality of Life Outcomes, 15, 143.
  7. Lodhia, V., Karanja, S., Lees, S. and Bastawrous, A., 2016. Acceptability, Usability, and Views on Deployment of Peek, a Mobile Phone mHealth Intervention for Eye Care in Kenya: Qualitative Study. JMIR mHealth and uHealth, 4(2), p.e30.

Ms. Schiller Mbuka

Research Scientist

Ms. Mbuka is an enthusiastic Young Researcher who is detailed-oriented and focused in undertaking and analyzing information from field studies and  controlled laboratory based investigations.

Academic and Professional Qualifications
  • Master’s in Public Health – Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology.
  • Bachelor’s degree in Science – Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology
Selected Publications
  1. Schiller J Mbuka, Prof Anselimo Makokha, Lawrence Muthami., “Factors associated with uptake of Exclusive Breast Feeding (EBF)in Kisumu East District: a qualitative analysis.” (accepted for publication in the IISTE Journal)

Ms. Lucy Magige

Research Scientist

Ms. Magige is a registered nutritionist and early career research professional with experience in coordinating and implementing research projects; Data collection using both qualitative and quantitative methodology; literature review; resource cost monitoring and dissemination of research findings. She is a trained trainer of trainers in nutrition capacity assessment. Ms. Magige has a keen interest in implementation science and dietary intake assessment.

Academic and Professional Qualifications
  • BSC. Food, Nutrition & Dietetics-Kenyatta University
  • Dietary data mapping in the Global Data Database- Tufts University
  • Certificate in Research Methodology-CBEC-KEMRI Bioethics Training Initiative
  • Certificate in Adolescent nutrition and anaemia-Nutrition International
  • Registered Nutritionist and Dietician-KNDI

Mr.Stephen Onteri

Research Scientist

Mr. Onteri is a focused and dependable Research scientist who is efficient, detailed-oriented with experience in qualitative and quantitative data collection and management and laboratory analysis of micronutrients in foods and biological samples.

Academic and Professional Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in Science – Moi University
  • Masters in Global Bioethics – Anahuac University
  • Masters in Food Science and Nutrition – Jomo Kenyatta University – ongoing.
Selected Publications
  1. Salt Iodization and Urinary Iodine Concentration Levels among Primary School Children in Mt. Elgon Sub-County, Kenya. (View Publication)