Ifakara Health Institute has bid farewell to Mr. Peter Sasse, a long-serving Technical Advisor who dedicated 15 years to the organization.

Since joining the institute in 2009, Mr. Sasse, also affiliated with the Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute (Swiss TPH) – a longstanding partner of Ifakara – played a pivotal role in shaping the institute’s infrastructure. His expertise was instrumental in the planning, design, and supervision of numerous construction projects that have transformed Ifakara’s capacity to deliver on its mission. 

Among his significant contributions is designing the Kingani Training Centre in Bagamoyo, a cutting-edge training and capacity-building facility. Mr. Sasse’s work also includes constructing a clinical trial facility for human vaccination trials, an archive, an office block, a mechanical workshop, a modular portable laboratory for mosquito research, insectary laboratories for malaria research, and a TB clinic at Bagamoyo Hospital.

In a farewell speech, Ifakara’s Chief Executive Director, Dr. Honorati Masanja, commended Mr. Sasse’s unique skill set and dedication, which has impacted the Institution. Dr. Masanja remarked, "A lot of the infrastructure standing today in our Dar es Salaam, Bagamoyo, and Ifakara branch offices exists thanks to Peter’s contributions—whether through his advice, supervision, or ensuring high standards and value for money in construction.”

“I want to sincerely thank you, Peter, for the immense impact you’ve made at Ifakara Health Institute and across Tanzania. Beyond your technical expertise, you have been a remarkable teacher, passing on vital construction knowledge to young Tanzanians both at IHI and beyond.”

Mr. Sasse, in turn, recounted his time with the institute, saying, "It has been a privilege to work at Ifakara for the past 15 years. I have had the privilege to work alongside great colleagues on various impact projects and witnessed tremendous growth and transformation. I am proud to have been part of that journey.” 

“While I am bidding farewell, my connection to Ifakara will remain strong through the partnerships we have built. I hope the institute continues to grow and succeed, making a positive impact to health for many years to come.”

As a token of appreciation, Mr. Sasse was presented with a memento recognizing his remarkable contributions to Ifakara. His creativity and ability to turn ideas into tangible projects have significantly impacted the Institute. His legacy will be appreciated for years to come and endure in the enduring architectural infrastructure he leaves behind.