Professor Gilbert Kokwaro Receives Prestigious Ogobara Doumbo Award at MIM Conference

In a momentous occasion at the Multilateral Initiative on Malaria (MIM) conference held in Kigali towards the end of April, Professor Gilbert Kokwaro emerged as a beacon of inspiration and achievement. The esteemed Professor was 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 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.

As Prof. Kokwaro stands on the podium to receive the Ogobara Doumbo Award, he embodies the spirit of excellence and innovation that defines the MIM conference. His dedication to malaria research serves as a beacon of hope for millions affected by this devastating disease, inspiring hope and driving progress toward a malaria-free world.

In the photos capturing the momentous occasion in Kigali, Professor Kokwaro’s humility and grace shine through, underscoring his genuine commitment to advancing the cause of malaria research. The certificate he holds aloft symbolizes not only his individual achievements but also the collective efforts of countless researchers working tirelessly to eradicate malaria once and for all.