We are a growing team of professionals committed to the vision and ideals of AKU and passionate about our role in translating IHD's mission into reality. Together we are making a meaningful investment in human development and laying foundations for the prosperity of tomorrow’s generation. Our team brings on board expertise from development, academia, research, communications, policy and administration making every day of our experiences exciting and rewarding.
Director
Prof Abubakar is a full Professor and Director for the Institute for Human Development, Aga Khan University. She is a Senior Research Scientist at the Kenya Medical Research Institute/Wellcome Trust Research Programme and visiting Academic at the University of Oxford, Department of Psychiatry.
She is a trained Developmental Psychologist with over 18 years research experience working in rural settings in Kenya within multidisciplinary teams. She is interested in both acquired and congenital brain disorders. Specifically, her research interests lie in: a) quantifying the neurocognitive burden of early childhood diseases; b) developing culturally appropriate psychological measures for use in SSA and; c) identifying culturally appropriate intervention strategies for at-risk children in SSA. She has more than 18 years experience developing assessment tools and describing the neurocognitive and mental health outcomes for children exposed to multiple risk factors. The neurodevelopmental tools and measures that she has contributed to developing have been used in more than 25 low- and middle-income countries. Her expertise in tool development is widely acknowledge and she has taught seminars, workshops and summers schools on cross-cultural test adaptation and validation in several countries including Kenya, South Africa, Spain, and Indonesia. Read more
Research Publications:
Margaret Kabue
Institute Manager
Ms. Kabue
is the institute's manager. She holds a bachelor's degree in
Sociology and Linguistics and a master's degree in Project Planning and
Management from the University of Nairobi. She previously worked as a
Project Manager for the Childhood Development in Marginalized Communities
(CDMC) project at IHD. She has also worked with ActionAid, KANCO and
Plan International in Programme management, capacity development and
advocacy. Her interests
are in programme management, research, and advocacy in the area of child and women rights.
Dr Anil Khamis
Research Faculty & Lead Researcher, AKU-wide SDG Mapping Project, IHD-Nairobi; IED-East Africa
Anil Khamis, PhD (London) holds cross-entity appointments in education, global health, and human development at the Aga Khan University where he has been since 2018. He also holds a faculty position with University College London Institute of Education where he has been since 2001. He specialises in the education and international development with reference to the UN Sustainable Development Goals having worked in over 30 countries. His expertise includes marginalised and disenfranchised communities in hard to reach and conflict regions of the world.
Currently based in Nairobi, Anil is leading on AKU research, programmes, and activities with regard to the SDGs. He has over 100 publications including peer-reviewed journal articles, book chapters, and international agency reports.
Dr Amin S. Hassan
Research Scientist
Dr Hassan holds the position of research scientist at the institute. He has a PhD from the University of Amsterdam and a Master degree in Epidemiology from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. He has over 18 years research experience, which includes setting up clinic and field cohorts in rural Kenya. He has an interest in applying multi-disciplinary approaches towards understanding drivers of infection and disease processes at a molecular and population level. He has experience in contributing knowledge that will inform the design and implementation of interventions towards tackling known and emerging public health challenges. He is particularly keen in promoting capacity building for biomedical research and public health expertise that will sustain the momentum in the fight against known and emerging public health priorities.
Dr Vibian Angwenyi
Postdoctoral Fellow
Dr Angwenyi is a postdoctoral fellow at the institute. She holds a bachelor's degree in sociology from Moi University and a master's degree in public health from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. Her joint doctorate degree in global health under the Erasmus Mundus programme scholarship was pursued at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (Netherlands), Barcelona Institute for Global Health (Spain), and the Institute for Tropical Medicine (Antwerp-Belgium). Vibian's research interests and expertise are in early child development, mixed methods research, health systems, and implementation science.
Dr Patrick Mwangala
Postdoctoral Fellow
Dr Mwangala is a postdoctoral fellow at the institute. He is specifically working on a project that seeks to understand women’s mental health needs and tailor programmes that address these needs in rural and urban informal settlements in Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kwale Counties in Kenya. His PhD at the University of the Witwatersrand in South Africa examined the psychological and functional outcomes of ageing with HIV and their biopsychosocial determinants in a low-literacy Kenyan setting. Patrick has a strong background in health research.
Dr Bilha Chepchirchir
Postdoctoral Fellow
Dr Chepchirchir is a postdoctoral fellow at the institute. She holds a PhD in Natural Science (chemistry) from Technische Universität Bergakademie Freiberg and a master of philosophy in Environmental Health from Moi University. She has experience in pollution monitoring using innovative sensors, laboratory instrumental analysis (GC-MS, LC-HRMS), and environmental modelling. Her research interests lie in environmental and health risks associated with chemicals around us and in the climate change˗environment˗health nexus.
Dr Japheth Adina
Postdoctoral Fellow
Dr Adina is a postdoctoral fellow at the institute. He holds a PhD in Clinical and Developmental Psychology from The University of Queensland in Australia and is a certified Triple P (Positive Parenting Program) practitioner. He has extensive experience in clinical research and academic teaching. He is interested in research on mental health, maternal perinatal psychopathology, neurodevelopmental disorders, child health and development, behavioral family/parenting interventions, cognitive behavioral therapy, psychometrics, HIV prevalence and population health.
Dr Asiya Abdulsattar
Postdoctoral Fellow
Dr Abdulsattar is a postdoctoral fellow at the institute. She holds a PhD in Psychology from the University of Nottingham and a master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from United States International University-Africa (USIU-A). Her research interests lie in neurodevelopmental disorders and mental health.
Dr Ronald Kipkirui
Postdoctoral Fellow
Dr Kipkirui is the Armstrong postdoctoral fellow at the institute. He has experience applying neuroscientific techniques such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Electroencephalography (EEG). Previously, he applied TMS to understand the causal role of distinct brain areas in various aspects of human cognition, including executive functions such as the working memory. He has also been involved in studies assessing the neurophysiology and neuropsychology of behavioral addictions. Dr Kipkirui is passionate about studying the neurophysiology of developmental disorders, particularly in children and adolescents, and examining conditions like HIV and Sickle Cell Disease. He has conducted research in Kenya, Asia, and Europe, where he also pursued his BSc, MSc and PhD studies. At IHD, he is committed to advancing research in neurodevelopmental disorders and disease-related neuropsychological challenges.
Patricia Kipkemoi
Research Fellow
Ms. Kipkemoi is a research fellow at the institute. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the United States International University (USIU-A) and a master’s degree in Clinical Developmental Sciences from Kings College London, where she investigated the perspectives of autistic adults on clinical genetics testing and healthcare. Her PhD from the Complex Trait Genetics Lab at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam characterizes the phenotypic and genetic architecture of neurodevelopmental disorders and socio-medical factors associated with these conditions in Kenya. For her postdoctoral fellowship, she will focus on exploring the impact of rare genetic variants on neurodevelopmental profiles and the interplay with environmental factors and on interventions for neurodiverse children and their caregivers, that enhance their quality of life and well-being.
Joyce Marangu
ECD Hub Manager
Ms Marangu is the manager for the ECD Workforce Hub hosted by the Institute for Human Development. She was previously a project coordinator for the Scaling Up Playful Parenting Project co-funded by UNICEF/LEGO Foundation and the Aga Khan Foundation USA, and has held other research positions in the Institute. Her research interests include: early childhood development, child health and nutrition, child poverty and social protection. Joyce holds a B.A in Social Work from the University of Nairobi, M.A in Development Studies from Ruhr University Bochum in Germany, and an M.A in Development Studies from the University of the Western Cape. She is currently pursuing a doctorate at Stellenbosch University. She is also an Africa Early Childhood Development Network Fellow.
Daud Abdullahi
Project Manager
Mr. Abdullahi is a project manager at the institute. He holds a master’s degree in Educational Planning, Economics and International Development from University College London - Institute of Education. He also holds a bachelor’s degree in Education from Pwani University and a diploma in Education Leadership and Management from Kenya Education Management Institute. He has experience in designing, managing and monitoring high impact Early Childhood Development Education (ECDE) programs. He seeks to deliver impactful, high quality and inclusive Early Childhood Development (ECD) programs for children at risk and hard to reach areas.
Pauline Njuita
Project Manager
Ms. Njuita is a project manager at the institute. She holds a master’s degree in Public Health from Moi University, a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Sociology from University of Nairobi and a diploma in Health Records & Information Technology from Kenya Medical Training College. She is currently pursuing a doctorate in Public Health at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology. Ms. Njuita has experience in Monitoring and Evaluation, Health Information Management and Quality Assurance. She is interested in program management and health promotion research to address non-communicable diseases among women, adolescents, and young adults through targeted interventions.
Peris Musitia
Research Manager
Ms. Musitia is a research manager at the institute. Her background training is in Development Studies. She is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Development Studies and holds a master’s degree in Development Studies from the Catholic University of Eastern Africa and a bachelor’s degree in Disaster Management from Masinde Muliro University. She has experience in research coordination and management for maternal and child health-related projects. Her interests lie at the intersection of climate change and the health system, with a focus on mental health-related research.
Erick Mataza
Data Manager
Mr. Mataza is a data manager at the institute. He holds a diploma in Community Development and Social Work from Mount Kenya University. He has vast experience in data management and is interested in early childhood development.
Daniel Rabok
Government Liaison Manager
Mr. Rabok is a government liaison manager at the institute. He holds a master’s degree in Early Childhood Studies and a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Kenyatta University, as well as a Diploma in Project Management from the Kenya Institute of Management. He has experience in Early Childhood Development (ECD) research, policy analysis, community engagement and workforce development. His interest is in research and management of ECD programs with a special focus on identifying and advocating for an improved policy environment to guide delivery of quality and inclusive ECD services to children during their earliest years.
Everlyne Okeyo
ECD Technical Specialist
Ms. Okeyo is an Early Childhood Development (ECD) technical specialist at the institute. She holds a master’s degree in Early Childhood Studies from Kenyatta University. She also holds a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and Counselling from Kenya Methodist University and a diploma in Project Management from the Kenya Institute of Management. She has experience in course development and delivery for different cadres of stakeholders. Her interest lies in various aspects of Early Childhood Education.
Linet Kaloki
ECD Technical Specialist
Ms. Kaloki is an ECD technical specialist at the institute. She holds a master's degree in Child Development (Family Studies) from Daystar University, a bachelor's degree and a diploma in Early Childhood Education from Kenyatta University. She is also currently pursuing her PRINCE2 Practitioner Certification. She has experience in teaching and educational project management as well as overseeing diverse projects, crafting training materials and conducting educational programs. She is deeply committed to fostering parental engagement initiatives that bolster learning outcomes for children within marginalized communities.
Brenda Nzioka
Research Specialist
Ms. Nzioka is research specialist at the institute. She holds a master’s degree in Special Needs Education from Kenyatta University and a bachelor’s degree in the same field. Ms. Nzioka's research interests focus on the inclusion and mainstreaming of persons living with disabilities, with a particular emphasis on creating equitable access to education, resources, and opportunities. She is also passionate about Early Childhood Development (ECD), where she seeks to address systemic barriers and foster inclusive practices that enhance developmental outcomes for all children. Her work combines academic rigor with a deep commitment to advocacy, aiming to drive meaningful change and promote social equity for vulnerable populations.
Judith Tumaini
Project Coordinator
Ms. Tumaini is a project coordinator responsible for the day to day running of the Aga Khan University Women Leadership Academy based in Kenya. She has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Counselling Psychology and an International Diploma in Administration from Cambridge College - Distance Learning. She has vast experience in psychological assessments for both clinical and research purposes and over 15 years’ experience in administration from KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme Kilifi having been the administrative assistant in the Neuroscience Department. Her main interests are in providing mental health literacy (especially to young adults, women and caregivers), assessments, and facilitating timely referrals or interventions.
Caroline Muthoni
Project Manager
Ms. Muthoni is the project manager for a climate change and health project called ENBEL that is housed at the institute. She has a BSc in Community Resource Management from Kenyatta University and is currently pursuing her MSc in Global Health at the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine. She has extensive experience managing projects and coordinating different research studies including qualitative inquiries, cross-sectional studies and RCTs on areas like HIV/AIDS, social justice, WASH, urban development, sexual reproductive health and rights, nutrition and climate change. She is interested in tackling global health challenges and addressing climate change and health issues in Africa through research to inform policy and action.
Roselyne Nguti
Project Coordinator
Ms. Nguti is the project coordinator of NeuroDev study in IHD. She is a graduate nurse (BSc. N, University of Nairobi) with a post graduate diploma in Health Research Methods and MSc. Immunology. Both of her post graduate studies were obtained from Pwani University in collaboration with KEMRI-Wellcome Trust (KWTRP). Previously, she worked as a nurse at Kakamega County Hospital and Nairobi Radiology Clinic. She has also participated in research at KWTRP. Her professional interest is in academia.
Sabina Odero
Research Officer
Ms. Odero is a research officer at the institute. She is a PhD student at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (Netherlands) focusing on mental well-being and resilience of Community Health Workers in Kenya. She has background training in Environmental Science from Kenyatta University, a postgraduate diploma in Health Research Methods from Pwani University and a master's degree in Global Health and Development from University College London (UCL). Her research interests and expertise are in qualitative research, health systems research with a focus on human resources for health, and psychosocial well-being of health workers in Africa.
Esther Chongwo
PhD Fellow
Ms. Chongwo is a PhD fellow at the institute. She has a background training in Nursing and Public Health from Kenyatta University, a postgraduate diploma in Health Research Methods from Pwani University, and a master's degree in Public Health from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. She is currently pursuing her doctorate studies at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (Netherlands), where she seeks to understand the risks and resilience in children from arid and semi-arid regions of Kenya and Tanzania. Previously, she worked on a project aimed at developing measures of adolescent connectedness and character development in Kenya. Her interests are in early childhood development, mental health, and positive youth development.
Beatrice Mkubwa
PhD Fellow
Ms. Mkubwa is a PhD fellow at the institute. She has a background training in BSc. Nursing from Moi University, a postgraduate diploma in Health Research Methods from Pwani University, and a master's degree in Implementation Science from the University of the Witwatersrand. Beatrice also has clinical research experience in understanding child neurodevelopment and health systems which she gained during her previous work at KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme. She is currently pursuing a doctorate at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (Netherlands). She has keen interest in child and adolescent mental health, neurodevelopment, implementation science, and mixed methods research.
Faith Neema
PhD Fellow
Ms. Neema is a PhD fellow at the institute working on a project that deals with Maternal, Newborn and Child Health. She holds an MSc in Mathematical Sciences from the University of Cape Town, South Africa and a master's degree in Machine Intelligence from the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences in Ghana. She is passionate about finding solutions to health-related problems using Artificial Intelligence.
Daisy Chelangat
PhD Student
Ms. Chelangat is a PhD student at the institute. She has a master’s degree in Applied Statistics from Kabianga university and a bachelor’s degree in Applied statistics with Computing from Maasai Mara University. She has over 5 years of experience in data analysis, reporting and manuscript writing and is focused on giving data a voice by turning it into actionable insights using robust statistical analysis methods and disseminating results in a language that can be understood by all. Her professional interests lie in using statistical and machine learning methods to obtain meaningful insights from data.
Easter Olwanda
PhD Student
Ms. Olwanda is a PhD student at the institute. She holds a master’s degree in Epidemiology and Population Health from Maseno University and a master’s degree in Health Economics and Policy from the University of Nairobi. She also holds a bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Science and Technology from Maseno University. She has experience in developing evidence-based solutions to tackle non-communicable diseases, with a particular focus on adolescent mental health. Her interest is in leveraging research and evidence to drive positive change in healthcare delivery and shaping the future of healthcare policies and practices.
Joan Mutahi
PhD Student
Ms. Mutahi is a PhD student at the institute. She holds a master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Nairobi and a bachelor’s degree in Counselling Psychology from Kenyatta University. She has experience in fostering inclusion and empowerment of diverse groups of child, adolescent, and youth populations. Her interest is in child and adolescent mental health.
Ezra Too
PhD Student
Mr. Too is a PhD student at the institute. He holds a master’s degree in Global Health from the University of Southampton. He also holds a bachelor’s degree in Nursing and a postgraduate diploma in Health Research Methods from Pwani University. He has experience in adolescent mental health research where he has quantified the burden of mental disorders and developed psychological measures for use in this age group. His interest is in adolescent mental health research and psychometrics.
Dahabo Elema
Master's Student
Ms. Elema is a master’s student at the institute. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Psychology. She has experience in qualitative research projects. Her interest lies in improving developmental outcomes among children from nomadic groups and research in early childhood development to guide policy changes.
Dorothy Chepkoech
Master's Student
Ms. Chepkoech is a master’s student at the institute. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Statistics and Programming from Kenyatta University. She has experience in Machine Learning, Data Analysis and Management. Her research interest lies in using data science methodology and machine learning to develop predictive models to identify sources of risk and resilience among at-risk children and adolescents.
Sylvia Omoke
Master's Student
Ms. Omoke is a master’s student at the institute. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Nursing from The University of Nairobi and a postgraduate diploma in Health Research Methods from Pwani University. She has experience in maternal and child health research. Her interest is in public health research with a focus on epidemiology and disease control.
Antipa Sigilai
Master's Student
Mr. Sigilai is a master’s fellow at the institute. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Nursing & Public Health from Kenyatta University and a Postgraduate Diploma in Health Research Methods from Pwani University. Prior to joining the Institute, he worked as one of the projects leads in the Epidemiology and Demography Department at the KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Program. His extensive research interests include examining the impact of exposure to infectious agents and environmental pollutants on neurocognitive development and brain health in children and adolescents residing in low-income settings.
Susan Nyamanya
ECD Technical Assistant
Ms. Nyamanya is an Early Childhood Development (ECD) technical assistant at the institute with over 10 years experience in managing and coordinating ECD projects. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Kenyatta University and a higher Diploma in Project Management from the Kenya Institute of Management. She also has certification in Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability and Learning (MEAL) from the Humanitarian Academy and Science of Early Child development (SECD) certification from the Aga Khan University. Prior to joining the institute, she worked for the Aga Khan Foundation. Her interests lie in advocacy, programme planning and management, monitoring and evaluation in the areas of gender and child development.
Eunice Ombech
Community Liaison Officer
Ms. Ombech is the community liaison officer at the institute. She holds a B.Ed in Early Childhood Education from Kenyatta University, and has experience in the coordination and implementation of Early Childhood Development interventions within the urban informal settlements of Nairobi. Her interests are in the areas of implementation science, family caregiver programs that positively impact developmental outcomes in children and Early Childhood Development research that informs policy change.
Eunice Njoroge
Project Officer
Ms. Njoroge is a project officer at the institute. She holds a BSc in Food Nutrition and Dietetics from Kenyatta University. She has worked extensively in the research and implementation of projects centred around early childhood development within urban informal settlements. She has also practiced as a clinical nutritionist. Eunice is passionate about championing for healthy communities through the optimization of maternal and child nutrition as well as food security programs. Her interests are in implementation science, policy and advocacy geared towards strengthening health systems.
Daniel Mwandije
Project Officer
Mr. Mwandije is a project officer at the institute, with a keen focus on advancing research-based interventions that promote the well-being of children, mothers, and adolescents. He holds a bachelor’s degree in social studies (Sociology) from Moi University and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Developmental Studies at Mount Kenya University. His expertise spans qualitative and quantitative research, with a particular strength in Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning (MERL). His work is characterized by a deep commitment to qualitative research methodologies, aimed at driving impactful and sustainable outcomes in his areas of focus.
Peter Khaemba
Research Associate
Mr. Khaemba is a research associate (qualitative analysis) at the institute. He holds a master of Public Health (major in communicable and non-communicable disease control and management, family health and environmental health and a bachelor’s degree in Anthropology (major in medical anthropology), both from the University of Nairobi. He has over fifteen years of experience in public health research and implementation projects. He is passionate about undertaking research in various capacities on projects including Climate, Heat and Maternal and Neonatal Health in Africa (CHAMNHA).
Kevinson Mwangi
Research Associate
Mr. Mwangi is a research associate (quantitative analysis) at the institute. He has master's degree in medical statistics from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), a postgraduate diploma in Health Research Methods from Pwani University, and a bachelor’s degree in Applied Statistics from Maseno University. He is passionate about applying appropriate statistical methods on data of varying complexities to generate evidence that can be used to inform policies to ensure that children achieve their developmental milestones. He is a member of the Royal Statistical Society, UK, and the Statisticians in Pharmaceutical Industry (PSI), UK.
Walter Kisangi
Research Associate
Mr. Kisangi is a research associate at the institute. He is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Development Studies at Mt. Kenya University. He holds a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Clinical Medicine and Surgery in Paediatrics and a diploma in Clinical Medicine and Surgery from Kenya Medical Training College. He has experience in paediatric research, medical scheme management, moderation of support groups, and staff health, wellness and safety. He is an advocate for safe blood donation, access to affordable and sustainable health services, evidence-based care, judicious antibiotics use and mental wellness among healthcare workers.
Edwin Omari
Research Associate
Mr. Omari is a Research Associate at the Institute. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Moi University. He has experience in action research, operations management and counseling psychology. Guided by the Spanish motto "Ne Plus Ultra," he strives to push boundaries in mental health research, shaping a brighter future- one neuron at a time. His passion lies with participating in interventions aimed at redefining approaches to mental health, mental health awareness creation and fostering resilience.
Beatrice Karimi
Project Assistant
Ms. Karimi is a project assistant at the institute. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Development Studies at the University of Nairobi and holds a bachelor’s degree in Development Studies with IT from Maseno University. Her interest lies in understanding the contribution of early child development initiatives to economic growth and development.
Tom Joe Ochieng
Project Assistant
Mr. Ochieng is a project assistant at the institute. He is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Project Planning and Management at the University of Nairobi and holds a bachelor’s degree in Anthropology with IT from Maseno university. He has experience in mental health and maternal, neonatal, and child health research as well as quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis. His interest lies in project planning and management, particularly in mental health and maternal, neonatal, and child health projects.
Gideon Mbithi
Research Assistant
Mr. Mbithi is a research assistant at the institute. He holds a BSc in Geospatial Information Science from Maseno University and a postgraduate diploma in Health Research Methods from Pwani University. He was previously based at the KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programe, where he examined the epidemiology and outcomes of traumatic brain injuries among patients admitted to Kilifi County Hospital. He is currently working on a research project that aims to assess and support mental health outcomes among adolescents in Kenya and Uganda. His interests are in global health and epidemiology.
Wesley Ogari
Research Assistant
Mr. Ogari is a research assistant at the institute. He holds a bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Nkumba University-Uganda and an MA in Project Planning & Management from the University of Nairobi. He is knowledgeable in the areas of Project Planning, Implementation and Evaluation. He has worked with Population Council, Family Health International, Amref, African Population and Health Research Center (APHRC), and the International Center for Research on Women (ICRW). In these organisations, he has worked as a Field Research Coordinator, Supervisor and Research Assistant on various projects advocating for women and adolescent sexual reproductive health rights and education all which have formed his core areas of interest.
Anita Kerubo
Research Assistant
Ms. Kerubo is a research assistant at the institute. She has a background training in Applied Statistics from Maseno University and a postgraduate diploma in Health Research Methods from Pwani University. She was previously attached at KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme where she worked on epilepsy-related data. Her current research interests are in adolescents’ well-being and their positive development.
Tabitha Shali
Research Assistant
Ms. Shali is a research assistant at the institute. She holds a bachelor's degree in Nursing from the University of Nairobi and has vast experience in both hospital and medical research settings. Her key interests revolve around neurodevelopment in children, community mental health and health policy.
Solomon Njenga
Research Assistant
Mr. Njenga is a research assistant at the Institute for Human Development. He has a background training in Mathematics and Economics from Maseno University and a Postgraduate Diploma in Health Research Methods from Pwani University. He was previously attached to KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme where he worked on economic evaluation methods and models. His current research interests are in whole child development, economic evaluation in healthcare, and health economics.
Edwin Dzoro
Research Assistant
Mr. Dzoro is a research assistant at the institute. He holds a BSc in Economics and Statistics from the University of Nairobi and a postgraduate diploma in Health Research Methods from Pwani University. He previously worked at the KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, the County government of Kilifi and the Ministry of Energy as an economist/fiscal analyst. He is currently working on a research project that aims to strengthen research knowledge translation on Whole Child Development in Kenya and Uganda.
Ann Karendi
Research Assistant
Ms. Karendi is a research assistant at the institute. She holds a BA in Psychology and Sociology and a Diploma in Social work and Social Development from the University of Nairobi. Previously, she worked with Concern World Wide in the Food and Safety program for children and mothers in the informal settlements of Nairobi. She brings vast knowledge in research and psycho-social interventions. She is passionate about children's well-being and advocacy geared towards a safe environment and the provision of basic needs.
Nimo Jamal
Research Assistant
Ms. Jamal is a research assistant at the Institute for Human Development, working on different mental health projects. She has been in the mental health field for five years and considers herself a mental health practitioner as well as a mental health advocate. She holds a bachelor's degree in Psychology and Counselling from KCA University, a Diploma in Psychology from KCA University and a Diploma in Psychology from Africa Nazarene University. She is also certified by the Kenya Counselling and Psychological Association. Nimo prides herself in supporting individuals dealing with mental health challenges in the hopes of finding solutions through her work and research.
Barrack Aoko
Research Assistant
Mr. Aoko is a research assistant at the institute. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood from Laikipia University. He has vast experience in field work involving household surveys and community engagement. His key interests are in maternal and child health as well as child neurodevelopment.
Kevin Wekesa
Research Assistant
Mr. Wekesa is a research assistant at the institute. He is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Public Health at Kenyatta University. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science from the University of Eldoret. He has experience in implementing and coordinating research studies in early child development, mental health and maternal, newborn, and child health. His interest lies in evidence-based approaches to addressing complex challenges in early child development, climate change adaptation, and promoting mental wellbeing among vulnerable communities.
Cynthia Shitote
Research Assistant
Ms. Shitote is a research assistant at the institute. She holds a diploma in Community Health Nursing from St. Elizabeth School of Nursing and has experience in early childhood medical research. Her interest lies in promoting practical and innovative ideas using new evidence-based research aimed at strengthening and promoting child health.
Barack Obara
Research Assistant
Mr. Obara is a research assistant (data management) at the institute. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Information Technology (IT) from Great Lakes University of Kisumu and also holds a diploma and higher diploma in Management Information Systems from KCA University. He has experience in Data Management for research projects for over 15 years. Having worked for various Medical Research Institutions including KEMRI/CDC, KEMRI/FACES, and Aga Khan University in different capacities within data management sections. His interest is to further my career in the field of Data Science to support medical research.
Linda Atuti
Research Assistant
Ms. Atuti is a research assistant at the institute. She is a licensed Psychologist and holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Kenyatta University, a certificate in Kenyan Sign Language from Kenya Institute of Special Education and is also a NASCOP (National AIDS and STI Control Program) Certified HTS (HIV Testing Services) Provider. She has experience in mental health research centered on identifying adolescents and young adults who are at risk of developing Psychosis and monitoring the progression of the psychotic symptoms they endorse for a period of 2 years using advanced Psychological Assessment tools like PSYCHS, BPRS and SCID-5 on REDCap. She is committed to offering psychosocial support to adolescents and adults and has worked as a Clinical Supervisor assisting in the implementation of the Anansi Project in high schools around Machakos County.
Gladys Maina
Research Assistant
Ms. Maina is a research assistant at the institute. She holds a bachelor's degree in Development Studies from Mount Kenya University and holds a diploma in community development and counselling from the Technical University of Mombasa. She has experience in women health research and clinical trials, having worked at the University of Washington (Mombasa site). Her interests are in community involvement, mental well-being and qualitative research.
Sarah Cosmus
Research Assistant
Ms. Cosmus is a research assistant at the institute. She is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Development Studies from Mount Kenya University and holds a diploma in Community Development and Project Management from Mombasa Aviation Training Institute. She has experience in project support and research studies. Her interest lies in whole child development and promoting mental wellbeing.
Scholar Bundi
Research Assistant
Ms. Bundi is a research assistant (field supervisor) at the institute. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Counselling Psychology from St. Paul’s University. She has experience in research and psychotherapy. She is passionate about mental health well-being and believes that through research, individual, organizational and societal psychological, social and physical well-being can be improved.
Rita Ochieng
Research Assistant
Ms. Ochieng is a research assistant at the institute. She is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Commerce with a specialisation in Human Resources at the Kenya College of Accountancy and holds a diploma in Human Resources from the Kenya Institute of Management. She has experience in business administration, implementation science and global mental health. Her interest is in Human Resources.
Veronicah Achoki
Research Field Enumerator
Ms Achoki is a research field enumerator at the institute. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences from Kenyatta University. She has vast experience in conducting surveys and interviews for both qualitative and quantitative research methods. Before joining the Institute she worked at The Population Council as a Field Interviewer. Ms Achoki is interested in improving the mental health of children with developmental disorders.
Kevin Sidika
Research Field Enumerator
Mr. Sidika is a research field enumerator at the institute. He holds a bachelor of science in Applied Statistics with Computing degree from Moi University. Kevin previously worked at the Kenya Medical Research Institute under the SEARCH Study as a Research Assistant. His interest is in research methodology, data analysis and monitoring, evaluation, accountability and learning.
Martha Kaniala
Research Field Enumerator
Ms. Kaniala is a research field enumerator at the institute for Human Development. She holds a bachelor's degree in Sociology with IT from Maseno University. Before joining the Institute, she worked with Catholic Relief Services. Her current research interest is in evidence-based policy and planning – supporting children's holistic development in marginalized communities.
John Maina
Research Field Enumerator
Mr. Maina is a research field enumerator at the institute. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Public Health from Pwani University. He has experience in implementing different mental health research studies among children, adolescents and women in Nairobi, Kilifi and Mombasa Counties. He also has experience in both qualitative and quantitative research.
Byron Odera
Research Field Enumerator
Mr. Odera is a research field enumerator at the institute. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Economics from Kenyatta University. He has experience supervising clinical psychologists working in various secondary schools in Nairobi. His interest is in psychopathology of neurodevelopmental disorders and other mental disorders in children and adolescents.
Sharon Chepkemoi
Research Field Enumerator
Ms. Chepkemoi is a research field enumerator at the institute. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Nursing from the Catholic University of Eastern Africa. She has experience in data analytics, the genetics of mental health illnesses, global health, and epidemiology. She seeks to contribute to mental health genetics research, leveraging her solid nursing foundation and data analytics to make impactful contributions to global health initiatives.
Damaris Nguyo
Research Field Enumerator
Ms. Nguyo is a research field enumerator at the institute. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Food Nutrition and Dietetics from Kenyatta University. She has experience in community-based research. Her interest is in promoting maternal and child holistic wellness and improving mental health support for children with developmental disorders.
Ann Muisyo
Research Field Enumerator
Ms. Muisyo is a research field enumerator at the institute. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Community Health from the Kenya Methodist University and a certificate in Counselling Psychology. She has experience participating in mental health resilience studies amongst healthcare workers, nurses and midwives in Kenya. Her interest is in the improvement and sustenance of psychosocial wellbeing.
Ann Mumira
Research Field Enumerator
Ms. Mumira is a research field enumerator at the institute. She is currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in Nutrition and Dietetics at Mount Kenya University and holds a diploma in Food Science and Nutrition from the University of Eldoret. She has experience working as a data collector. Her hands-on experience make her a committed and knowledgeable professional in the field of nutrition and dietetics.
Faith Pola
Research Field Enumerator
Ms. Pola is a research field enumerator at the institute. She is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Community Development from Mt. Kenya University and holds a diploma in Community Development and Social Work from the same institution. She has experience in community work, both research studies and project Implementation. Her interest is in Early Childhood Development and Sexual Reproductive Health.
Maureen Ooko
Communications Coordinator
Ms. Ooko is the communications coordinator at the institute. She holds a bachelor's degree in Communication Studies and is currently pursuing a master's degree in Communication Studies at the University of Nairobi. She has worked in various multinational organisations where she has horned her communications skills. Her interests are in public relations and development communication.
Teresiah Mukera
Communications Officer
Ms. Mukera is a communications officer at the institute. She holds a bachelor’s degree from the Multimedia University of Kenya. She has experience in conservation communication and mental wellness support at the workplace. Her interest is in communication for development.
Kezia Ng'ang'a
Communications Associate
Ms. Ng’ang’a is a communications associate at the institute. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Communication Studies at the United States International University-Africa (USIU-A) and holds a bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies from Daystar University. She has experience in digital media, communication for development and internal communication. Her interest is in visual communication and storytelling.
Esther Peter
Administrative Coordinator
Ms. Peter is an administrative coordinator at the institute. Esther has a master's degree in Development Communication and a bachelor's degree in Public Relations from Daystar University. She has previously held positions at Syngenta AG as a Corporate Affairs Assistant- Africa and Middle East Region, and Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission at the Public Relations office. Her interests are in the areas of Development Communication.
Moreen Mutiku
Administrative Coordinator
Ms. Mutiku is an administrative coordinator at the institute. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Procurement and Logistics from KCA University. She has experience in the use of modern administrative and grants management tools to dispense multinational and multimillion-dollar projects. Her interest is in project administration, research & grants management and education to advance project management coordination.
Lorraine Asige
Administrative Associate
Ms. Asige is an administrative associate at the institute. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Community Resource Management from Kenyatta University. She has experience working towards advancing evidence-based solutions to societal challenges through shaping policy agendas that prioritize the needs of marginalized communities. Her interest is in community advocacy and the intersection of law, research and public policy.
Stacy Oguk
Administrative Assistant
Ms. Oguk is an administrative assistant at the institute. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Geography and Environmental Studies from the University of Nairobi. She has substantial experience in administrative management, accounting, procurement, and human resources. Her interests lie in human resource management and advocating for policies that support environmental conservation.
