Doctoral Fellows

Name of the PhD fellow: Jirata Shiferaw Abosse

University admitted: Addis Ababa University

Main Supervisor: Prof. Bekele Megersa

Co-Supervisors: Prof. Feleke Zewge / Dr Fasil Ejigu Eregno / Dr Ståle Haaland

PhD Project Title: Healthcare Wastewater: Hotspot Reservoirs for Antimicrobial Resistance Genes and Heavy Metals

Project Area: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Project background

The healthcare systems generate significant quantities of wastewater effluents and biomedical waste that contain various toxic environmental pollutants like pharmaceutically active compounds, organic contaminants, heavy metals (HM), radioactive isotopes, and pathogenic microbes. Through a variety of mechanisms, including co-resistance and cross-resistance, HM contamination co-selects antibiotic and metal resistance. Zinc and cadmium were the most frequently observed HMs linked to antimicrobial resistance (AMR), and Salmonella typhimurium, Campylobacter Jejuni and Escherichia coli were the most generally focused bacteria with revealed co-occurrence of resistance to several HMs and AMR. However, the one health concept of the co-resistance and cross-resistance mechanism of HM and AMR in the selected study area is not investigated.

Aim of the project

To determine the concentration of selected heavy metals and antimicrobial resistance developed in humans, animals and the environment at the Akaki River Catchment, Central Ethiopia.

Name of the PhD fellow: Richard Lizwe Steven Mvula

University admitted: Malawi University of Science and Technology

Main Supervisor: Dr. W. Kadewa

Co-Supervisors: Dr. J. Njalammano / Dr Fasil Ejigu Eregno / Dr Ståle Haaland

PhD project title: Evaluating Enteric Diseases Risks In Solid Waste through a One Health Approach: A Case of Blantyre City

Project Area: Urban and peri-urban areas of Blantyre City

Project background

Waste-related diseases claim the lives of 5.2 million people annually, including 4 million children, and the situation is likely to worsen if not checked. Like other developing regions, waste management has become a critical concern in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) (Debrah et al., 2022). Malawi is not exempt from the problem of efficiently managing solid waste. Blantyre City has experienced a prevalence of sanitation-related diseases such as cholera, typhoid fever, malaria, and schistosomiasis. These diseases are linked to sanitation and poor waste management. Despite these evident threats, limited or commonly known knowledge exists regarding improper solid waste management and its connection to enteric diseases in Blantyre City. The absence of such assessment hinders effective mitigation and management strategies, emphasizing the need to investigate the associated risks. Thus, the study to ascertain the solid waste management and the link to enteric diseases is critical. Therefore, this study uses an integrated one-health approach to assess the risks associated with solid waste and their relation to enteric diseases in areas surrounding the dumpsites in Blantyre City.

Aim of the project

To investigate the enteric disease implications of solid waste management practices in Blantyre City using one health framework.

Name of the PhD fellow: Beza Zwedu Desta

University admitted: Addis Ababa University

Main Supervisor: Professor Gezahegne Mamo

Co-Supervisors: Dr. Adey Feleke / Dr Girum Tadesse Tessema (NVI, Norway)

PhD project title: Genomic Base Molecular Characterization of Drug Resistance and Host-Pathogen Interactions of Mycobacterium Tuberculosis Complex in Animal, Human, and Environmental Interface in Addis Ababa: One Health Approach

Project area: Urban and peri-urban areas of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Project background

Tuberculosis (TB) caused by mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MBTC) is a significant public health concern, affecting humans and animals. the emergence of the drug resistance strain of MBTC has complicated treatment efforts, leading to the need for a deeper understanding of the genetic factors driving resistance. additionally, the interaction between the pathogen and its hosts is critical for understanding the disease dynamics. this project is particularly important as it takes a holistic approach by examining the MBTC across human, animal, and environment interfaces, which is essential for controlling TB in diverse settings. The molecular characterization of drug resistance in this different context will provide insight into how resistance spreads and evolves and how the pathogen interacts with different hosts.

Aim of the project

The primary aim of the project is to molecularly characterize drug resistance in the mycobacterium tuberculosis complex. this will involve genomic analysis to identify the genetic marker associated with drug resistance, and to study how the pathogen adapts to different hosts and environment. The goal is to enhance understanding of how drug resistance emerges and spreads and to inform strategies for better management and control of TB in both human and animal populations. And, to develop develop diagnosis protocol to confirm the result that helps to individualise the treatment of tuberculosis in the patient.

Name of the PhD fellow: Christopher Kolla

University admitted: Malawi University of Science and Technology

Main Supervisor: Dr Mwayiwawo Madanitsa

Co-Supervisors: Professor Alfred Maluwa / Dr Stella Mazeri

PhD project title: Developing Strategies for Implementation of Community-Based Surveillance for Rabies in Malawi: A One Health Approach

Project area: Urban and peri-urban areas of Blantyre in Malawi

Project background

Globally, rabies kills approximately 60,000 people annually with the greatest burden in Asia and Africa. Dog bites are the main zoonotic transmission pathway of rabies to humans, accounting for 99% of cases. Although canine rabies is endemic in Malawi, human rabies exposures and cases are likely underreported due to inadequate surveillance. A One Health approach which recognizes the interconnections between the health of humans, animals, and their shared environment is highly advocated as the best option to eliminate rabies in resource-constrained settings like Malawi where many cases of rabies in both animals and humans continue to be underreported. Despite this recognized opportunity for the control of human rabies, there is poor collaboration between human and animal health sectors in Malawi with inadequate mechanisms for coordinated surveillance and control of zoonotic diseases such as rabies. Therefore, there is a need to develop strategies and implement Community-Based Surveillance for zoonoses with a focus on rabies surveillance and control in Malawi under the framework of One Health.

Aim of the project

The study aims to develop strategies that will improve the surveillance system of human rabies associated with dog bites with the view of generating information that informs policy and provides a framework for public health advocacy towards rabies control and elimination.

Name of the PhD fellow: Sitota Tesfaye Tekle

University admitted: Addis Ababa University 

Main Supervisor: Prof. Gezahegne Mamo (DVM, MSc, PhD)

Co-Supervisors: Prof. Kebede Amenu (DVM, MSC, PhD) / Dr Madelaine Norström (NVI, Norway)

PhD project title: The Nexus of Milk Production, Dairy Environment and Food Safety: Addressing Escherichia Coli Contamination of Milk Through One Health Approach in Addis Ababa Milk Sheds, Ethiopia.

Project area: Urban and peri-urban areas of Addis Ababa

Project background

Milk is regarded as the most ideal nourishment for humans from infancy until old age, due to its excellent sensory qualities and abundance of nutrients that the body needs for quick growth and help to lower the chance of developing numerous diseases associated with nutritional deficiencies. Behind providing superior nutrition value for health and development, milk distinct composition and characteristics can work as a remarkable substrate for bacterial growth and might negatively affect the health of consumers as a result of improper handling, storage, and transportation which might result in contamination of milk with milk-borne zoonotic Escherichia coli and E. coli O157 bacterial pathogens which are major public health concerns due to illness and risk of AMR transmission.

Aim of the project

The general objective of this study will be to investigate milk-borne zoonotic E. coli and E. coli O157 H7 pathogens, their AMR profile, and gene flow and transmission pattern along the animal-human-environment interface in Addis Ababa milk shed, Ethiopia.

Name of the PhD fellow: Bessie Chimwemwe Phiri

University admitted: Malawi University of Science and Technology

Main Supervisor: Professor Alfred Maluwa

Co-Supervisors: Dr Tone Kristin Johansen / Dr Hannah Joan Jorgensen

PhD project title: Strategies for Improving Access to Rabies Post Exposure Prophylaxis Among Dog Bite Patients in Malawi: An Implementation Study in A One Health Approach

Project area: Balaka District and Blantyre urban and peri-urban area, Southern region of Malawi

Project background

Rabies is estimated to cause 59,000 human deaths annually with over 95% of the cases occurring in Africa and Asia and almost half of the cases are children under 15 years of age. Up to 99% of human cases are caused by dog bites.

Human rabies is 100% preventable, yet it continues to claim people’s lives. A recent modelling shows that over one million people will die of rabies between 2020 and 2035 if dog vaccination and PEP access are not scaled up. In Malawi, up to 500 humans are estimated to die from rabies annually. While PEP is potentially lifesaving, it is often unavailable or costly in LMICs. In Malawi, the rabies vaccine is often unavailable or difficult to access because of the complicated system of seeking PEP. Robust rabies control measures and interventions are available and well documented. However, implementing these is a challenge. Therefore, there is a need to develop and implement novel strategies to improve access to PEP among dog bite victims through a One Health approach.

Aim of the project

The overarching aim is to improve control of rabies in Malawi by increasing access to rabies post-exposure prophylaxis for dog-bitten patients in Malawi using a One-Health approach in line with STOP-R.

Name of the PhD fellow: Henry Mapwesera

University admitted: Malawi University of Science and Technology, Malawi

Main Supervisor: Dr. Wilfred Kadewa

Co-Supervisors: Dr. Emmanuel Vellemu / Dr Fasil Ejigu Eregno / Dr Ståle Haaland

PhD project title: Risk Characterization of Clinical Wastewater in Blantyre City and its Sub-Urban Nexus

Project area: Urban and peri-urban areas of Blantyre City, Malawi

Project background

As urbanization increases in Blantyre City and its sub-urban nexus, so does the generation of clinical wastewater from healthcare facilities. This waste contains hazardous materials that pose significant risks to human, animal, and environmental health. Notwithstanding the possible hazards to one's health and the environment, Blantyre City has seen little research on this topic.

Aim of the project

To characterize and assess the risks associated with clinical wastewater in Blantyre City and its sub-urban nexus, and its impact on human, animal, and environmental health.

Name of the PhD fellow: Tilahun Beyene Handiso

University admitted: Addis Ababa University

Main Supervisor: Dr Fufa Abunna (DVM, MSc, PhD) 

Co-Supervisors: Professor Tadesse Eguale (DVM, MSc, PhD) / Dr Veronika K. Pettersen 

PhD project title: Shiga-toxin producing Escherichia coli from Diarrheic Patients, Dairy and Vegetables In Addis Ababa: Prevalence, Genetic Characteristics, And Antimicrobial Susceptibility Profile.

Project area: Urban and peri-urban areas of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Project background

Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a facultative anaerobic rod-shaped bacteria. Shiga-toxin producing Escherichia coli, an enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli strain, is a significant emerging virulent zoonotic foodborne pathogen, affecting all age groups and causing severe consequences. Shiga toxin producing is a well-known serotype that can cause foodborne infections in humans. The Shiga toxin producing E. coli encompasses hundreds of O157 and non-O157 serotypes capable of causing severe illnesses in humans, with the top six non-O157 serogroups: O26, O45, O103, O111, O121, and O145. The O157 serogroup is the most commonly reported enterohaemorrhagic and has been the main cause of serious foodborne outbreaks, particularly foodborne infections. Its prevalence, genetic characteristics, and antimicrobial susceptibility profile are not well investigated from One Health's perspective.

Aim of the project

To investigate the prevalence, genetic characteristics, and antimicrobial susceptibility profile of Shiga toxin producing Escherichia coli in diarrheic patients, dairy and vegetables in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

MSc Students at Malawi University of Science and Technology (MUST) - COHORT 1

GLORY PRECIOUS MNYENYEMBE

Glory Precious Mnyenyembe is a second-year Master's student in One Health at the Malawi University of Science and Technology (MUST). She is currently conducting a research project entitled “The Prevalence and Genetic Profiles of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus in Children and their Household Animals in Thyolo District.” The study involves children under the age of five suffering from non-malarial febrile illness (NMFI) as well as healthy children, alongside their household animals, which include pets and livestock. The project aims to investigate the association between MRSA found in NMFI children and healthy children and that identified in their household animals. The objective is to determine the potential for transmission or shared reservoirs of MRSA between humans and animals within these households.

WANANGWA MUNTHALI

Wanangwa Munthali is a final-year Master's student in One Health at the Malawi University of Science and Technology. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Geography. His research focuses on the knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to solid waste management and its association with malaria, cholera, and rabies, specifically in the Mbayani area of Blantyre. Upon completion of his research, he aims to map the spatial distribution of dumpsites and infectious diseases in the region and establish the relationship between solid waste management practices and the incidence of cholera, malaria,and rabies.

SHAREEF RAJIH MDALANGWA

Shareef, a trained molecular biologist, is currently pursuing a Master of Science in One Health at Malawi University of Science and Technology (MUST), specializing in antimicrobial resistance and bacteriophage therapy. His research focuses on the isolation and detailed characterization of lytic phages specific to multidrug-resistant Salmonella spp. derived from poultry farms. Leveraging his background and expertise, he aims to develop phage-based alternatives to antibiotics, thereby addressing the increasing threat of antimicrobial resistance. His work contributes to the One Health concept by addressing the critical intersections of human, animal, and environmental health.

AMON ABRAHAM

 Amon Abraham is a Master of Science (M.Sc.) in One Health second-year student at the Malawi University of Science and Technology. His research interest focuses on antimicrobial resistance. His current research project, titled "Impact of Antibiotic Residues from Manure on the Presence of Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria in Agricultural Soils and Vegetables," analyzes the presence of antibiotic residues in manure, soil, and vegetables and their role in fostering antibiotic-resistant bacteria within agricultural ecosystems. This study addresses critical One Health components by examining how these residues impact environmental health, food safety, and the risk of antimicrobial resistance transfer to humans and animals. The findings aim to inform sustainable agricultural practices and policies to mitigate public health risks associated with antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

OMEGA UKO

Omega Uko is a Master's student in One Health at the Malawi University of Science and Technology, specializing in One Health Modeling. She is passionate about exploring the intricate relationships between human, animal, and environmental health. Her current research focuses on the impact of air pollution on public health and ecosystems, utilizing advanced modeling techniques to analyze data and predict outcomes. With a background in Mathematical Sciences and a strong interest in interdisciplinary approaches, Omega aims to contribute to sustainable solutions that mitigate the effects of air pollution. She believes that effective collaboration across sectors is essential for fostering healthier communities and environments. Omega is eager to engage with fellow researchers, policymakers, and advocates to promote meaningful change in air quality management and public health initiatives.

FYNESS SIBANDE

Fyness Sibande is a Master's student in One Health at the Malawi University of Science and Technology. Her research concentrates on the relationship between the built environment and health, specifically evaluating the risk factors that impact both human and animal populations residing within these settings. The study aims to propose guidelines for addressing the identified disparities. Her academic pursuits are supported by a scholarship awarded through the NORHED II Project.

WONGANI KHONJE

Wongani Khonje holds a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Extension from the Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR) and is currently a final-year Master of Science student in One Health at the Malawi University of Science and Technology (MUST). Wongani's research focuses on pesticide use and residues in tomatoes cultivated in semi-urban areas of Blantyre, specifically in Chipande and Lunzu, along with the associated human health risks. The study indicates that the intensive application of pesticides by farmers to enhance tomato production and profitability has resulted in the accumulation of pesticide residues in harvested tomatoes, which may pose health risks to consumers. This research aims to establish baseline pesticide residue levels in tomatoes, providing a reference for future studies and policy measures to mitigate contamination in the food supply.

CHIMWEMWE CHIUTULA

Chimwemwe Chiutula serves as a consultant for Water Insight Limited. He is currently pursuing a Master of Science in One Health at Malawi University of Science and Technology, fully funded by the NORHED II Project. Chimwemwe's research focuses on conducting a comparative analysis of heavy metal accumulation and associated health risks in indigenous and exotic vegetables irrigated with wastewater, specifically in Zingwangwa Township, Malawi.

 MUONAOUZA ANDRINAH DELEZA

Muonaouza Andrinah Deleza is a second-year Master of Science student in One Health, conducting her research under Work Package 4 entitled: “Prevalence and Antimicrobial Resistance Patterns of Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Enterococcus Species in Poultry Farms in Blantyre City.” This research primarily focuses on broiler and layer farms, examining farm workers, chickens, and their shared environment. The significance of this research lies in its exploration of a critical public health issue related to antimicrobial resistance in Malawi, where the access to and use of antibiotics in livestock production are high yet poorly regulated.

LEMSON KACHEDWA

Lemson Kachedwa is a second-year Master of Science in One Health student at Malawi University of Science and Technology. His research focuses on developing a web-map-based Geographical Information System for managing and exploring water quality data. The platform is integrated with interactive tools for data visualization and analysis and serves as a repository for water quality data and research information from One Health students at MUST. By linking water quality parameters to health outcomes, the platform aims to support informed decision-making and promote sustainable water resource management.

ROSE KACHINGWE

Rose Kachingwe, a Master of Science student in One Health at the Malawi University of Science and Technology, is conducting multidisciplinary research to explore the toxicological risks associated with septic tank wastewater effluent in Blantyre City, Southern Malawi. Her study focuses on assessing the presence and concentrations of pathogenic agents such as Escherichia coli, Salmonella, and Vibrio cholerae in septic tank effluents. Additionally, she evaluates the toxicological effects of these effluents on aquatic organisms, particularly fish, and identifies potential risks to human health and the environment. Rose employs quantitative and experimental methods, collecting and analyzing samples from septic tanks and nearby water sources in Manase, a peri-urban area. Her work highlights critical issues such as water quality degradation, public health risks, and the environmental impact of decentralized wastewater treatment systems. This research aligns with the One Health approach, which recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. Through her research, she aims to inform sustainable sanitation practices and policies in rapidly urbanizing regions. Furthermore, this study underscores the importance of holistic, sustainable approaches to sanitation, contributing to global efforts to achieve clean water, health equity, and environmental protection.

JACOB MANDA

Jacob Manda is a second-year One Health student at the Malawi University of Science and Technology (MUST). He is currently conducting research on the prevalence of antibiotic-resistant pathogenic bacteria and antibiotic residues in aquatic environments within Blantyre Urban, Malawi. This study is funded by NORHED II and aims to generate comprehensive data to identify hotspots of antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) and their contributing factors. By examining the level of contamination in the environment with ARBs and antibiotic residues, this research aligns with the One Health concept, which acknowledges the interconnection among human, animal, and environmental health. This approach is crucial in addressing antibiotic resistance (AMR), a growing global threat. The research is particularly significant for women and children, who often rely heavily on river water sources for domestic purposes. By identifying ARBs and residues, this study aims to protect vulnerable populations from the potential risks of exposure and promote safer water usage.