Strengthening Malaria Leadership: IHM’s ELEMMINATE Project – LMG Program Launches in Burundi

Burundi, like many sub-Saharan African countries, continues to bear a heavy burden of malaria—a disease that remains one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality across the country. With nearly the entire population at risk, and recurring seasonal outbreaks compounding the challenge, effective leadership, and coordination within the National Malaria Control Program (NMCP) are more critical than ever. In response to this need, the ELEMMINATE Project has extended its transformative Leadership, Management, and Governance (LMG) training program to Burundi, with the first module officially launched from April 28 to 30, 2025, in Ngozi.

This first in-person module, held at Hotel des Plateaux, brought together 35 participants representing a cross-section of malaria program stakeholders. The training was convened under the leadership of Dr. Pierre Sinarinzi, Director of NMCP Burundi, whose commitment and support were instrumental in executing the program on short notice. This strong start reflects not only the dedication of the local coordination team, including Mr. Samuel Mwinzi and Cartel Byamungu, but also the growing momentum within Burundi’s malaria response efforts to invest in the people behind the programs.

Over the course of three days, participants were immersed in a rich curriculum designed to build foundational leadership capacity for malaria program management. Day one opened with welcoming remarks by Dr. Sinarinzi and Prof. Gilbert Kokwaro, setting the tone for an engaging and impactful training. Professor Sam Kinyanjui led a session on the science of malaria, contextualizing the epidemiological burden and the imperative for coordinated interventions. Dr. Sinarinzi then delivered a powerful session on strategy and implementation, drawing from his experiences leading NMCP Burundi through various operational challenges.

Day two delved into more nuanced leadership themes. a planned virtual session on complexity science was facilitated by Prof. Gilbert Kokwaro #The rest of the day focused on leadership in malaria programs, with Ms. Harriet Koyoson introducing participants to the concept of “Leading Self”—a key building block in personal and institutional transformation.

The final day of the module was centered on deep introspection and applied leadership. Through the Clarity 4D tool, participants gained insights into their individual leadership styles and interpersonal dynamics. Ms. Koyoson facilitated sessions that integrated these personal reflections with discussions on leadership accountability, ethical decision-making, and how coaching can be leveraged to drive institutional improvement. These sessions were not only intellectually stimulating but also emotionally resonant, pushing participants to consider how their leadership can shape more responsive and resilient malaria programs.

A significant component of the module was the introduction of the ELEMMINATE e-learning platform, presented by James Oyoo. Participants were guided through the online learning environment and successfully enrolled. This digital layer will enhance continuity across the upcoming modules, ensuring a blended learning approach that is both flexible and effective.

In addition to the training sessions, participants took part in electing a leadership committee to represent their cohort—a move designed to foster ownership, peer support, and structured follow-up. Looking ahead, Modules 2 and 3 are scheduled for late May and early July, respectively, to be delivered virtually during evening hours

This first module in Burundi marks a pivotal investment in the leadership that drives the country’s malaria response. By equipping NMCP leaders and partners with critical leadership, management, and governance skills, the ELEMMINATE Project is strengthening the backbone of malaria elimination efforts. In a country where malaria continues to threaten public health, such capacity-building initiatives are not just timely—they are essential. Through strengthened leadership, Burundi moves closer to a future where malaria is controlled and ultimately eradicated, powered by leaders who are prepared, empowered, and united in purpose.