The Ifakara Health Institute announces with deep sorrow the passing of our colleague, Dr. Prosper Chaki, Director of Resource Mobilization and Stakeholder Engagement, who passed away on 24 January 2026 at Muhimbili National Hospital, Dar es Salaam.

Dr. Chaki dedicated decades of service to the Institute. His outstanding contributions to malaria research, vector control, and the mentorship of young scientists played a significant role in the growth and impact of the Institute, both nationally and across Africa.

On behalf of IHI Management and Staff, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Dr. Chaki’s family, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of working with him. Our thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones and the wider scientific community during this difficult time.

Career and contributions

Dr. Chaki was a Chief Research Scientist at the Ifakara Health Institute and formerly served as Chief Executive Director of the Pan-African Mosquito Control Association (PAMCA). He earned his PhD in Tropical Infectious Diseases from the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine.

His work focused on developing practical, community-based strategies for malaria vector control monitoring and surveillance across Africa. He collaborated closely with communities, districts, and national programmes to support evidence-based decision-making and targeted interventions.

Dr. Chaki made major contributions to larval source management, malaria risk mapping, and the creation of a large-scale, quality-assured entomological surveillance system covering 186 villages across mainland Tanzania. He was also dedicated to advancing innovative tools to address emerging vector control challenges and strengthening African entomological capacity through collaboration and knowledge exchange.

Dr. Chaki’s legacy will continue to inspire the work of Ifakara Health Institute and the broader malaria research and public health community.