The Ifakara Health Institute has unveiled eight new Institutional Review Board (IRB) members to replace those whose tenure has ended on 27th October 2023.  

Among them is Dr. Rubby Mcharo, a Public Health Specialist, Dr. Rose Mpembeni, a Biostatistician, and Dr. Helga Naburi, a Pediatrician, Dr. Grace Mhalu, a Social Scientist, Fadhlun M. Alwy Al-Beity, an Obstetrician/Gynecologist and Dr. Emmanuel Kaindoa an Entomologist. Religious representatives include, Fr. Raymond Athanas and Salim Abubakar. 

The IRB’s central commitment is to safeguard the well-being and rights of individuals and communities involved in health research. This involves thorough review and oversight of research protocols, ensuring qualified investigators, actively monitoring approved projects, and taking ethical action if necessary. 

The goal is to maintain ethical standards, prioritize the interests of participants, and contribute positively to both research and the communities affected by it.

At the same time, the old members were invited to participate in a farewell party organized after the IRB meeting on Friday, 24th November 2023. 

Below is a photograph of the outgoing members being given a certificate of appreciation by the Ifakara Health Institute Chief Executive Director, Dr Honorati Masanja