Improving pneumonia care

Pneumonia is the leading infectious cause of death among children under 5. Clinical trials, observational studies, and systematic reviews to inform guidelines for the care of children with pneumonia in hospitals aim to determine how to best preserve existing treatments, and look for new alternatives. Working in hospitals with practicing clinicians provides a unique insight applicable in real world settings.

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I began my research career at the KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, where I have maintained a longstanding affiliation throughout my career, alongside periods of paediatric residency training and, more recently, an appointment at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, where I served as Professor of Infectious Disease Epidemiology. Prior to this transition, I served as Head of the Department of Epidemiology and Demography at KEMRI-Wellcome, and I have recently rejoined the Programme as Deputy Director and Director of the Nairobi Programme.

I lead a broad research portfolio spanning pragmatic clinical trials, clinical epidemiology, infectious disease surveillance, and implementation research, with a focus on childhood respiratory infections. This work has contributed towards shaping child health guidelines and policy in Africa and globally.

My current research includes collaborative programmes focused on strengthening the quality of care for maternal, newborn, and child health; evaluating the role of artificial intelligence and digital technologies in supporting healthcare delivery and clinical decision-making; and leading a large interdisciplinary research programme examining the effects of aflatoxin exposure on child health in the context of climate change, agriculture, and food systems in Africa.

Alongside my scientific work, I have a strong commitment to advocacy, policy engagement, and professional leadership in child health. I am actively engaged with the International Pediatric Association (IPA), the East, Central and Southern Africa College of Paediatrics and Child Health, and the Kenya Paediatric Association (KPA), including previous service on the KPA Board and current membership of the IPA Scientific Committee.