Who We Are

Dr. Collins Mitambo is a Medical Doctor and Public Health Specialist with over 14 years of experience in health systems strengthening, clinical research, bioethics and development programming. As Country Director of I4D, he provides strategic leadership and technical direction across the Institute's programmes, research, consultancy and capacity-strengthening work in health, agriculture, governance, climate change, education and community development. He has supported national and international initiatives on health systems strengthening, disease surveillance, antimicrobial resistance response and clinical research capacity, working closely with governments, international organisations and development partners to design and implement high-impact programmes. His expertise spans epidemiology, implementation science, bioethics, digital health and partnership development. Dr. Mitambo is committed to transforming evidence into action and building collaborations that bridge science, policy and practice, positioning I4D as a leading African centre of excellence for research, innovation and sustainable development.

Dr. Chifundo Msokera is a Medical Doctor and Public Health Specialist with expertise in health systems strengthening, public health programming and strategic leadership. As Deputy Country Director of I4D, he provides strategic and operational support in coordinating the Institute's programmes, partnerships and country-level operations, working closely with leadership, technical teams and government institutions to ensure effective delivery and quality assurance. He combines clinical expertise with population-based approaches to disease prevention, surveillance, outbreak response and health policy and has experience strengthening health workforce capacity and community engagement. Dr. Msokera supports the strategic implementation of I4D's portfolio across health, research, governance and community development, ensuring interventions align with national priorities and global development goals. He is committed to advancing development through evidence-based, collaborative leadership that bridges healthcare, research and community empowerment.

Dr. Sibongile Kondowe is a Medical Doctor and Epidemiologist with expertise in disease prevention, health systems strengthening and evidence-based public health interventions. As Head of Programmes at I4D, she provides strategic leadership and technical oversight for the Institute's programmes, research and consultancy services, guiding programme design, quality assurance and partnership coordination to ensure measurable, sustainable impact. Her background combines clinical knowledge with population-based approaches to disease surveillance, outbreak response and health research. Dr. Kondowe leads the coordination of multidisciplinary programmes across health, agriculture, governance, climate change and social development, supporting I4D's mission of generating evidence and strengthening institutions. She is passionate about applying epidemiological evidence and multidisciplinary collaboration to build effective programmes that bridge research, policy and practice.

Watanja Mphande is a Social Worker and Public Health Specialist with experience designing and managing programmes that improve health outcomes and strengthen communities. As Senior Programme Officer at I4D, she supports the delivery of research, technical assistance and community-focused development initiatives, including programme coordination, stakeholder engagement and monitoring and evaluation. Her multidisciplinary background integrates community systems strengthening, health promotion, social protection and gender and social inclusion, with a focus on addressing social determinants of health and improving access to essential services. She has worked with government institutions, NGOs and development partners on initiatives promoting equity and resilience. Watanja is passionate about strengthening community systems and empowering vulnerable populations and her work centres on building health and social systems that are responsive, equitable and capable of improving outcomes for individuals and communities.

Dr. Zichtina Agness Msekandiana is a Veterinary Surgeon and development practitioner specialising in animal health, One Health approaches and the links between livestock, public health and food systems. As a Project Officer at I4D, she supports the planning, coordination and monitoring of development programmes, contributing technical expertise, stakeholder engagement and research to evidence-based solutions. Her veterinary background brings specialised knowledge of animal health, disease prevention, food safety and the role of livestock systems in improving livelihoods and community resilience, reflecting the interconnectedness of human, animal and environmental health. At I4D, she strengthens linkages between agriculture, health and environmental sustainability. Dr. Msekandiana is passionate about using veterinary science and multidisciplinary collaboration to build healthier communities, resilient food systems and sustainable livelihoods across the Institute's programme areas.

Jonathan M. Phiri is a Gender and Community Development Specialist experienced in designing and implementing programmes that promote gender equality, social inclusion and community empowerment. As a Project Officer at I4D, he supports programme implementation, stakeholder collaboration and monitoring of development initiatives across multiple sectors, focusing on evidence-based interventions that strengthen communities and improve social outcomes. His work addresses social inequalities through participatory approaches that empower vulnerable and marginalised groups to participate meaningfully in decision-making. At I4D, Jonathan contributes to initiatives addressing gender equity, social accountability and community resilience. He is passionate about using community-centred, gender-responsive strategies to address development challenges and build societies where individuals have equal opportunities to thrive.

Cynthia Kwekwete is a Finance and Administration professional experienced in financial management, administrative systems and organisational operations. As Finance and Administration Officer at I4D, she supports the management of financial systems and operational functions that enable the Institute to implement its programmes effectively, working closely with programme teams, management and partners on budgeting, financial reporting and procurement. She contributes to sound financial stewardship, accountability and efficient use of organisational resources, playing a critical role in strengthening I4D's operational systems. Cynthia is committed to promoting professionalism, accountability and operational excellence, ensuring that financial and administrative systems support the Institute's mission of delivering impactful and sustainable development solutions.

Joe David Nkusi is an Information Technology specialist with expertise in ICT systems management, digital solutions and technology infrastructure. As IT Manager at I4D, he provides strategic leadership and technical oversight for the Institute's information technology systems, digital platforms and cybersecurity, supporting ICT strategies that strengthen organisational operations, programme delivery and knowledge management. He plays a key role in ensuring I4D's digital infrastructure is secure, efficient and scalable. Joe is advancing digital transformation across the Institute, promoting responsible use of technology and exploring emerging tools such as artificial intelligence and data analytics to improve decision-making. He is passionate about using technology as an enabler for sustainable development, building a digitally enabled institution capable of delivering data-driven, impactful solutions.

Musaiwale Kamfose is a clinical researcher and global health leader specialising in infectious diseases, clinical trials and health systems strengthening. As Board Chairperson of I4D, he provides strategic leadership and governance oversight, guiding the Institute's growth as a Centre of Excellence that bridges science, policy and practice. He has collaborated with the University of Oxford's Nuffield Department of Medicine and the Oxford University NHS Trust on research addressing infectious diseases and antimicrobial resistance, including international studies on severe bacterial infections such as Staphylococcus aureus bacteraemia. His expertise spans clinical trial design, global health research, capacity strengthening and translational medicine and he is committed to building sustainable, African-led research ecosystems that translate evidence into better health outcomes. Through his leadership, Musaiwale champions an institution that connects research, innovation, partnerships and community impact across Malawi, Africa and beyond.

Mellissa Mungomo is a development strategist with over 12 years of experience in resource mobilisation, grants management, donor engagement and institutional strengthening. As a Board Member of I4D, she brings expertise in organisational growth and partnership management, strengthening the Institute's ambition to become a leading Centre of Excellence. Throughout her career she has designed and led fundraising strategies, secured competitive grants and built long-term relationships with bilateral and multilateral donors, foundations and development partners, consistently translating institutional priorities into well-funded, high-impact programmes. She has expanded funding portfolios, strengthened institutional visibility among partners and embedded gender equality and safeguarding within programme and grant systems. Recognised for strategic thinking and results-driven leadership, Mellissa provides guidance on institutional sustainability, partnership development and resource mobilisation, helping position I4D as a trusted partner for governments, donors, academia and civil society in advancing Africa's development agenda.

Hilton Eneya Banda is a Malawian entrepreneur, geologist and strategic development leader with extensive experience in natural resource management, mining investment and private sector-led economic transformation. He is Group Chairman of Akatswiri Holdings Limited, a Malawian investment group active in mineral exploration, construction and water infrastructure, including the proposed Chambe Plateau bauxite and rare-earth elements project in Mulanje. As a Board Member of I4D, he brings a private sector perspective to the Institute's mission, championing responsible investment, local participation, environmental stewardship and the localisation of Malawi's mining sector through skills development and technology transfer. Beyond business, Hilton is active in community development and philanthropy, reflecting his belief that economic success must be matched by social impact. His leadership strengthens I4D's capacity to build partnerships with industry and investors and to advance solutions that integrate environmental, social and economic priorities across Africa.

Mathews Gamadzi is a licensed legal practitioner with extensive experience in public law, governance, criminal justice and public sector accountability. He serves as Senior Deputy Director of Asset Recovery at Malawi's Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, leading asset recovery, state litigation and enforcement of legal frameworks that promote accountability and the rule of law. As a Board Member of I4D, Mathews provides governance oversight and legal expertise that strengthen the Institute's commitment to transparency, ethical leadership and institutional excellence. His career spans state prosecution, legal advisory services, human rights compliance and financial crime investigation, working closely with government institutions, law enforcement and development partners to strengthen legal and institutional mechanisms. At I4D, his guidance helps ensure the Institute maintains the highest standards of corporate governance, regulatory compliance and accountability while supporting programmes that advance good governance and inclusive development across Malawi and Africa.

Rev. Limbani Jambo is a theologian, development leader and public health advocate with extensive experience in faith-based development and humanitarian programming. He serves as Executive Director of Health Relief Trust, a Zomba-based non-profit improving the health and wellbeing of vulnerable communities through integrated health, education and social development interventions. As a Board Member of I4D, he draws on his experience in community development, organisational leadership and partnership building to strengthen the Institute's commitment to people-centred, inclusive development. He has worked closely with government, faith-based organisations, civil society and international partners to design initiatives that strengthen health systems, empower communities and promote social justice, guided by a deep commitment to servant leadership and ethical governance. At I4D, Rev. Jambo contributes a distinctive perspective that bridges faith, science, policy and community engagement, supporting the Institute's vision of resilient, evidence-informed communities across Malawi and beyond.

Dieudonné Dusengumukiza is a Certified Public Accountant and finance and business advisory professional with over a decade of experience in financial management, investment analysis and organisational transformation. He is a Senior Manager at Garnet Partners, advising governments, development partners and private sector institutions on financial, business and investment strategy. As a Board Member of I4D, he provides financial oversight that strengthens the Institute's governance, sustainability and resource mobilisation. He has advised on major Rwandan public and private initiatives, including the Kigali Infrastructure Project, Kigali Special Economic Zone and Rwanda Development Bank, and Gates Foundation-supported fund management assignments, and served as first Director of Finance at Rwanda's National Council for Science and Technology and first Chief Finance Officer at Centrika Ltd. He holds a Master's in Financial Engineering from WorldQuant University and graduated top of his class in Finance from the Rwanda School of Finance and Banking. His financial leadership supports I4D's ambition to become a financially resilient Centre of Excellence.

Dr. Diana Muthoni Kariuki is a Kenyan pharmacist and public health professional with over eight years of experience spanning both the public and private health sectors. Throughout her career, she has contributed significantly to strengthening pharmaceutical systems, improving access to quality medicines and advancing evidence-based pharmacy practice in Kenya.

Dr. Kariuki has played a key role in the development of national policies, guidelines and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) that promote the safe, effective and rational use of medicines while enhancing professional pharmacy practice. Her expertise includes pharmaceutical policy development, medicines management, health systems strengthening, quality improvement and implementation of best practices within healthcare settings.

A passionate advocate for health equity and gender equality, Dr. Kariuki is committed to empowering women and girls through mentorship, education and community engagement. She actively mentors young girls in schools, inspiring them to pursue leadership, education and careers in science and healthcare. As a feminist, she champions women's rights and works to create opportunities that enable women and girls to reach their full potential.

Dr. Kariuki has successfully led and coordinated numerous medical outreach initiatives across Kenya, delivering essential healthcare services to underserved and vulnerable communities. Through these medical camps, she has helped provide healthcare access to approximately 42,000 women and children, addressing critical health needs while promoting preventive care, health education and community empowerment.

Recognized for her collaborative leadership and commitment to service, Dr. Kariuki continues to work at the intersection of pharmaceutical practice, public health policy and community development. Her vision is to build resilient health systems that deliver equitable, high-quality healthcare while empowering communities—particularly women and children—to achieve better health outcomes and sustainable development.