JOHN PAUL KAKANYERO

Medical laboratory technician/CQI Coordinator

Meet Kakanyero John Paul, a dedicated Medical Laboratory Technician and CQI Coordinator at the International Rescue Committee's Bidi-bidi Refugee Settlement. John Paul ensures high-quality services, coordinating organization-wide quality improvement initiatives. John Paul also extends his expertise as a District CQI Mentor for Yumbe District, District Laboratory Mentor for IDI Koboko, and West Nile Regional Supervisor for LabXpertDS. He's presented best practices at local and international conferences and received several awards, including: The Best Upcoming Researcher Award from UMLTA (2023) Best Abstract Award from Uganda Society of Health Scientists (2024) Best Choice Award at the International Conference on Voice from the Field on NCDs (PCI & UNHCR, 2024) Best UG Innovation Fund Award from IRC that impacted into establishing a Blood Collection Centre at Yumbe Regional Referral Hospital (2024) with support from Arua Blood Bank.

Olwee Isaac Eluma

Labororatory coordinator

OLWEE ISAAC ELUMA, HIHGLY SKILLED LAB TRCHNOLOGIST WITH 6YRS OF EXPERIENCE IN CLINICAL LAB TESTING, QUALITY CONTROL, PROFICIENT IN PERFORMING DIAGNOSTICT TESTS, OPERATING LAB EQUIPMENTS AND MAINATINED ACCURATE RECORD ,STRONG PROBLEM SOLVING SKILLS ,EXCELLENT COMMUNICATION AND TEAM PLAYER

DAVID BALIRUNO

Masters student

David Baliruno is a seasoned professional in biomedical laboratory technology, currently pursuing a Master’s degree at Makerere University. He holds a Bachelor’s in Biomedical Laboratory Technology and a Master’s in Financial Management. With over 20 years of experience, he has held various roles, including Laboratory Head at the Joint Clinical Research Centre’s Mbale Regional Centre of Excellence. His expertise lies in laboratory management and quality assurance. David has hands-on experience in diverse biomedical assays and has participated in several international clinical trials, demonstrating strong analytical skills and a commitment to healthcare excellence. His research interests also extend to antimicrobial resistance and phage therapy. David's background reflects a continuous pursuit of knowledge and improvement.

DIANA ATWIJUKA

Biorisk Management Advisor

Diana Atwijuka is a BRM Advisor- Strengthening Public Health Laboratory Systems(SPHLS) project at JCRC and supports the National Biorisk Management Coordination Program Ministry of Health Uganda. She holds an honors Degree in Laboratory Science and currently pursuing a masters in International Public Health. Due to great passion in the area of biosafety and biosecurity, she acquired certification for the International Federation of Biosafety Association Professionals(IFBA) in Biorisk Management and Risk assessment. She has 12 years of laboratory practice and 7 years of experience in the health systems strengthening using One health approach is the area of Biosafety Biosecurity, Laboratory Quality Management Systems and health security. She is currently serving as the secretary general for the Biosafety Biosecurity Association of Uganda (BBAU)

NAKIDDE VIOLA

Managing director

I am a quality assurance specialist with ten years of experience in quality management system (QMS) implementation, maintenance, and monitoring in thirty-five facilities. I have developed expertise in training, audit, and mentorship in standards like ISO 9001:2015, ISO 15189:2022, ISO/IEC 17025:2017, ISO 19011:2018, ISO 22367:2020 through my past working experience with Lancet Laboratories and Nakasero Hospital. I have successfully led and worked with eleven teams in Uganda, Kenya, and South Africa to apply, attain, and maintain Accreditation certification with bodies like SANAS, KENAS, and GCC. I am passionate about advancing performance excellence among individuals and institutions.

TIMOTHY OTAALA

LAB SERVICES ADVISOR

Public Health Specialist and Laboratory Services Advisor with 18 years of experience traversing from local, sub national, national and international laboratories. Vast experience in HIV Programming, Research, Grant writing, Continuous Quality Improvement, Capacity building, technical support, Mentorship, Coaching, Auditing, Planning, Budgeting, Commodity management, analysis/interpretation of clinical laboratory tests/results, Equipment maintenance, Quality Control/Assurance, Biosafety/Biosecurity. Former Chief Scientific editor of UMLTA, Board member of the USHS, MLT Board Member, Abstracts reviewer with ASLM and member AIC Research and Ethics committee. Distinguished writer with 8 publications, 7 international and 5 national scientific presentations. National trainer, auditor and consultant with MOH.

Alinda T Brenda

Quality manager/ laboratory technologist

Alinda Brenda is a Biomedical Laboratory Technologist with Makerere University Walter Reed Project (PEPFAR Department) and serves as the Quality Manager at Mukono General Hospital Laboratory. With over 10 years of experience in clinical and research laboratories, she is passionate about strengthening quality systems and advancing accreditation through practical, risk-based approaches. Brenda has been instrumental in implementing ISO 15189:2022 standards to reduce non-conformities and enhance service delivery. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Biomedical Laboratory Technology and has received extensive training in quality management and biosafety. At this year’s UMLTA Annual Conference, she presents her abstract on the laboratory’s transition to ISO 15189:2022.

IVY GRACE CHIMULWA SUUBI

Quality assurance and quality control specialist

a molecular biologist and quality assurance specialist with over three years of experience in a CAP-accredited laboratory. Her work focuses on strengthening quality systems, optimizing testing accuracy, and supporting genomics and sequencing operations. Her research interests have expanded into HIV drug resistance and cure research, as well as synthetic biology, phage therapy, and zoonotic disease surveillance. Through her contributions to publications, funded projects, and science communication, Suubi continues to champion innovation and quality within laboratory medicine in Africa.

SANDRA MATINYI

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Sandra Matinyi is the Cofounder and Executive Director of Nuo Bioscience, an organization advancing responsible science in Africa through research, policy guidance, and capacity building in fields of biosafety and biosecurity, QMS, Bioinformatics, and data science. He work spans national, regional and international levels. She is an Africa CDC biosafety and biosecurity subject expert and has trained scientists across various African countries. She is a passionate advocate for youth and women in science. In July 2025, she launched the Africa Women Leadership Initiative (AWLI), a biosecurity and health security fellowship at Nuo Bioscience.

FELIX JURUA

Laboratory technologist

Felix has A master of science degree in molecular biology (mak), bachelor of biomedical laboratory technology (mak), Diploma in medical laboratory techniques (jinja). He has 15 years of experience working in an eqa laboratory. He has led eqarelated studies as the principal investigator, with the manuscripts undergoing peer review pending publication. He previously worked in makerere university-walter reed proJECT and infectious diseases research collaboration.

Akide Rose

Laboratory Manager

I am a Ugandan female professional with AN academic and technical background in biomedical and public health sciences. I hold a Master of Science degree in Biomedical Laboratory Sciences AND MANAgEMENT (MLS) AND A bAChELOR’S DEgREE IN biomedical laboratory technology (BBLT) from Makerere University, as well as a Master of Public Health (MPH) from the same institution. In addition, I hold a Postgraduate Diploma in Health Economics from the University of York (UK) and a Postgraduate Diploma in Project Planning and Management (DPPM) from the Uganda Management Institute (UMI). With over fifteen (15) years of progressive experience, I have developed extensive expertise in implementing Quality Management Systems, Project Management, Health Systems Strengthening, Monitoring and Evaluation, and Health Technology Assessment. My professional experience also includes coordination and implementation of national training and capacitybuilding programs for healthcare providers, research compliance monitoring, biosafety and biosecurity, disease surveillance, and policy development and advocacy for policy uptake. I am a qualified KENAS auditor for ISO 15189, contributing to laboratory accreditation processes and quality improvement initiatives across the region. I have successfully led national-level teams and built capacity at both regional and international levels, fostering collaborative relationships with government institutions, development partners, and implementing organizations. I have also worked closely with international bodies such as FIND Diagnostics, CLSI, ASLM, KENAS, SANAS, and AFNET in advancing Laboratory Health Systems Strengthening initiatives. Through these engagements, I have contributed to strengthening laboratory systems, enhancing health service delivery, and promoting quality and safety within healthcare and research environments both nationally and THE REGION.

PROSPER TAREMWA

Assistant lecturer

Dedicated Ugandan Medical Laboratory Technologist and educator with expertise in Microbiology, Cell biology, Genetics, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology and Medical Education. Currently a Lecturer at MUST, UIAHMS and Tutor at Masulita Medical Laboratory School. Proven track record in teaching, laboratory management, and TB control. Holds a Master's in Medical Laboratory Science and Postgraduate Diploma in Medical Education. Skilled in laboratory quality management, biosafety, and data analysis. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Experience in curriculum development, examination administration, and team leadership. Committed to knowledge sharing and training laboratorians

VICENT MWESIGYE

LECTURER

Mwesigye Vicent is a Lecturer at Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST), Department of Medical Laboratory Science, and a PhD Fellow. A Medical Laboratory Specialist and Trainer with over 17 years of teaching and technical experience, he serves as a Board Member of the Medical Laboratory Technology Board under AHPC–MoH and Secretary of the Pre-Registration Committee. Vicent is Chairperson of the Local Organizing Committee for the 43rd UMLTA Conference, former UMLTA Western Region Chairperson, and Founder and Managing Director of Expert Laboratories Limited. He is passionate about advancing innovation and excellence in Uganda’s medical laboratory practice.

MUJEEB SALAAM

LECTURER

Dr.Salaam lectures at Islamic University In Uganda. He has 30 years hands-on Laboratory experience and 10 years in teaching. Mujeeb holds PhD of Mount Kenya University; MPH of Cavendish University, Uganda; MSc in Chemical Pathology, Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye among others. I was a PI or co-Investigator on several IUIU/ISDB and IDSA-funded grants. My professional interests centre on finding blood-based biomarkers that can be relevant to prevention and early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias with a focus on developing routine blood tests to improve dementia patient outcome.Dr.Salaam is married with children.

Robert Masaba Namisi

Laboratory leadership fellow

12/09/1974, married, 04 children from sironko working with Uganda peoples defence forces and health services as a laboratory specialist. Cme/cpd coordinator in updf. Head of haematology and blood transfusion and currently a laboratory leadership fellow at uniph

My name is Mugalya Denis a 22-year-old student of KIU-WC pursuing a bachelor's degree in medical laboratory science. I am passionate about acquiring new skills learning and getting new ideas from different mentors in the lab field and the medical field at large. I am currently a member of the American society of microbiology where I get some of the scientific knowledge of research and also am an enrolled student of the scienspur fall cohort of 2025/2026. My commitment is in innovation in the medical field and create an impact to the lively hood of humanity.

"My name is Stella Evelyn Nakawombe

IVAN TAREMWA MUGISHA

Laboratory scientist/ researcher

I am a graduate student at Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST), currently pursuing a doctorate in Medicine. Since, May 2011, I began working for Epicentre Mbarara Research Centre (EMRC), a Medecins Sans Frontières (MSF) research arm that collaborates with MUST and the World Health Organization on epidemiology and emerging disease response. Over time, I attained skills to conduct high-fidelity clinical research in infectious diseases (particularly, malaria, tuberculosis, HIV, and hepatitis). I also teach at Mbarara University of Science and Technology and Clarke International University.

Winnie Agwang

Laboratory leadership Fellow

Winnie is a results-oriented laboratory and public health specialist with 9 years’ experience in diagnostics, biosafety and biosecurity, quality management systems, disease surveillance and response, qualitative & quantitative research and scientific writing. She is Laboratory Leadership Fellow with the Uganda National Institute of Public Health and currently works with the World Health Organization as a laboratory officer. She has previously worked with Baylor Foundation Uganda, Makerere University Joint AIDS Program, Makerere University School of Public Health, Ministry of Health, the Infectious Diseases Institute, and Nakasero Hospital, supporting Biorisk Management, Laboratory Quality Management Systems, HIV/TB, Ebola, Antimicrobial Resistance, Mpox, and COVID-19 programs in different capacities strengthening systems as well as responding to disease outbreaks at national and subnational level. She has conducted and led trainings in her areas of expertise, implemented plans & framework and evaluated systems. She has also provided technical support across public and private sectors. Winnie is known for being a self-driven, adaptable team player with strong communication, problem-solving, and mentoring skills.

"I am a LABORATORY SCIENTIST CURRENTLY WORKING WITH MOH AT UGANDA VIRUS RESEARCH INSTITUTE. I HAVE A Bachelors in MEDICAL LABORATORY SCIENCE

Nicholas Nuwashaba

Medical Laboratory specialist (Histopathology &Diagnostic cytology)

Nuwashaba Nicholas is a Ugandan Medical Laboratory Specialist in Histopathology and Diagnostic Cytology, and a pathology early researcher dedicated in advancing cancer diagnostics and care. He works with Ministry of Heath- Uganda attached at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital. He collaborates with the Uganda Cancer Institute team on some studies like exploring molecular markers such as Foxp3 and p53 in prostate cancer. Nicholas is also apart time Lecturer of histopathology and diagnostic cytology at Metropolitan International University. He’s with ongoing different research studies focusing on improving access to quality pathology services, promoting cancer screening, and strengthening laboratory capacity in Uganda. He is passionate about innovation and community health. He is also advocating for the establishment of the Uganda Society for Histotechnology.

Expert in clinical diagnostics with 10 years experience

PHOEBE AITILA

Medical Laboratory Technician. Quality manager

Finished diploma in medical lab techniques in medical lab school Jinja. Bachelors degree in Medical lab science in MUST Advanced Diploma in Health Management system in IUIU Worked as medical lab Technician since 2013 to date in Kumi Local Government in several facilities

Peter Babigumira Ahabwe

Director Policy and Strategic Partnerships

Peter Babigumira Ahabwe is a biosecurity and global health security professional with extensive experience in biosafety, epidemic intelligence, and laboratory systems strengthening. He serves as Director for Policy and Strategic Partnerships at Nuo Bioscience and has contributed to initiatives under the Global Health Security Agenda, the World Health Organization, and Uganda’s Ministry of Health. His work focuses on integrating biosecurity, cyber-biosecurity, and preparedness across health and research institutions. Peter has represented Uganda in Biological Weapons Convention forums and leads capacity-building efforts on laboratory safety, bio-risk management, and science diplomacy.

Joseph Nkodyo MUKASA

NATIONAL coordinator, biosafety biosecurity program, Consultant specialist at National forensic university and joint staff engineering bridge

Joseph Nkodyo M Profession: Public Health Laboratory Medicine Expert Current Position: -National Coordinator, Biosafety and Biosecurity Program, MOH, Member of National Biosafety committee at UNCST. Academic Qualifications; Masters of Public Health MUST 2025, Master of Science in Medical Microbiology, Bachelor’s Degree in Medical Laboratory Science, Diploma Medical laboratory Technology, Postgraduate Training in Biosafety and Biosecurity from New Mexico, Sandia National Laboratories, National Defense University, USA Certification in Biorisk Management & Biosecurity – International Federation of Biosafety Associations (IFBA) Mentor and instructor at UNIPH-LLP, Consultant specialist at NFU and joint staff engineering bridge

MUZAFARU TWINOMUJUNI

Laboratory technologist

PhD Fellow Master of science in Medical Microbiology Postgraduate Diploma in Medical Education Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science, Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology, Certificate in Medical Laboratory Technology

James Lutaaya

Student

Lutaaya James was born in 1998 in Kigalama Village, Kayunga District. He completed his 0 level Education at Kanjuki secondary School in 2015 and A level at Seat of Wisdom S . S , Kasawo in 2017. He obtained a diploma in Medical laboratory technology from Mengo hospital Laboratory training school in 2022 and is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Biomedical laboratory technology at the university of Kisubi, Entebbe . He serves as a medical laboratory technician at Maryna Medical centre, Buloba.

I AM PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL DOCTOR PRACTICING GENERAL MEDICINE WITH PASSION IN HEALTH INNOVATIONS AND RESEARCH.

Haron Okot

Laboratory assistant

I am a born of 1999 in the Kole district, went through early life of primary, secondary and did certificate in medical laboratory technology. I have worked with USAID RHITES N LANGO PROJECT, USAID G2G project for 4 years before the Trump executive order. I am currently volunteering at Lira Regional referral hospital. Registered member of UMLTA, passionate about laboratory work and much willing to advance my career. I support BRM as Dep. Safety Officer, Continuous Quality Improvement as Dep QI focal person and a member of hospital IPC Committee with combined effort led Lira RRH laboratory to attain accreditation in 2022 and sustained until present. I love team building activities, abstract writing and touring. I am in third year pursuing diploma in medical laboratory at Lira Institute and Management Sciences.

JOSEPH NTURO

LABORATORY ADVISOR

Iam Public Health Practitioner and a Laboratorian with leadership experience in project implementation, and management. I work with Local Partner Health Services – North and Southwest /JCRC worked as a Laboratory Advisor. Similarly, I worked w with John Snow Inc / USAID Regional Health Integration to Enhance Services - North, Lango (RHITES-N, Lango) Project. Participated in award winning proposal write up and business development. Successfully managed multi-billion Shillings PEPFAR (USAID) funded HIV/TB programs in Uganda. Led and had a good field management experience of supporting Laboratory services within the Northern region of Uganda. Passionate at developing young professionals through trainings and mentorships.