On March 19, 2025, at 2 PM, the Ifakara Health Institute took part in an engaging webinar on "Effective Community Engagement in Global Health Research for Sustainable Change in Africa." 

This important discussion explored strategies for fostering meaningful partnerships between researchers and local communities, emphasizing the need for inclusive, culturally sensitive, and participatory approaches in global health research to ensure sustainable health outcomes.

Bringing together experts from different parts of Africa, the webinar delved into best practices, challenges, and opportunities for empowering communities while highlighting the crucial role of local knowledge in shaping research initiatives. 

The discussion is particularly relevant for researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders committed to improving health systems and driving long-term change across the continent.

Moderated by Sheikha Salum Mohamed, Africa Regional Coordinator for the Mesh Community Engagement Network, the panel featured distinguished experts, including Nomathamsanqa Majozi, Head of Public Engagement at the Africa Health Research Institute; Leah Bategereza, Research Scientist and Community Engagement Coordinator for Clinical Trials; and Patrick Faley, Clinical Research Community Engagement Coordinator at The US-Joint Clinical Research Program in Liberia.

On the list also, are: Nnamdi Dum Buo, Social Scientist at the Centre for Research in Infectious Diseases (CRID); and Lindiwe Mafuleka, Lead of the Communications and Public Engagement Department at the Malawi Liverpool Wellcome Research Programme.