Zihi Institute

𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝗖𝗮𝗻 𝗪𝗲 𝗘𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗧𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗜𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘇𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗔𝗿𝗲 𝗘𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗹𝘆 𝗥𝗲𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗔𝗰𝗿𝗼𝘀𝘀 𝗗𝗶𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗲𝘅𝘁𝘀? The answer lies in the Documenting and Reporting Implementation Strategies of Vaccination Efforts (DRIVE) framework, a pioneering approach developed by Adamu and colleagues (2025) to transform immunization programs into agile learning systems. With vaccination efforts facing setbacks due to the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, there is an urgent need to capture, document, and replicate effective implementation strategies to bridge the immunization gap. The DRIVE framework introduces a structured, eight-section methodology to ensure that vaccination strategies—whether innovative or routine—are meticulously recorded and easily transferable across different regions. By detailing aspects such as the implementation problem, context, mechanisms of action, and barriers to success, the framework empowers policymakers, researchers, and healthcare practitioners to adapt and scale successful immunization strategies with precision. As global efforts intensify to reverse immunization backsliding, systematic documentation is no longer optional—it is essential. The DRIVE framework offers a blueprint for cross-context replication, ensuring that best practices are not lost but leveraged for maximum impact. If implemented widely, this model could be the key to achieving global vaccination targets and safeguarding future generations against preventable diseases. Abdu Adamu Amos Petu Balcha G Masresha Blaise Bathondoli Rabiu Ibrahim Jalo (MD, MPH, FWACP) Duduzile Ndwandwe-Mshumi Charles Shey Umaru Wiysonge Luchuo Engelbert Bain

Nee Hao LinkedIn family, today I joined Brian Odhiambo and Nyanchoka Cynthia for an AMR Grassroots Agents Project, courtesy of Zihi Institute and South Centre, Geneva . The aim was to educate the masses around Kenyatta Market on: 📌What Antimicrobial Resistance is. 📌The Drivers of Antimicrobial Resistance 📌The Impact of Antimicrobial Resistance 📌Ways they can help in the mitigation of Antimicrobial Resistance. We managed to get a very attentive audience, especially from the boda boda fraternity and the vegetable vendors. We donated some reflectors and aprons after the educative sessions so the AMR discourse could continue even after our departure. Overall, the aims of the project were achieved and we are excited for the next phase. Zihi Institute South Centre, Geneva Nyanchoka Cynthia Brian Odhiambo KU-YPRC

#NewPublicationAlert Thrilled to announce that our latest #article, "Enhancing the General Public Knowledge of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in Africa: a video-based Brief Educational Resource Review" has been published in the Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy -Antimicrobial Resistance. Dive deep into the article here: https://lnkd.in/d9UD72DG Zihi Institute Hafeez Hamza Ngoni Veddie Muzondo Samar Akbi

Last week, I had the privilege of participating in the inaugural East Africa Region Global Health Security Summit (#EARGHSS) 2025, held from January 28th to 30th at the PrideInn Paradise Beach Resort & Convention Center in #Mombasa, Kenya. The #summit convened a diverse group of stakeholders from 14 different states, including academicians, industry experts, policymakers, innovators, and private sector representatives, to share knowledge and experiences aimed at enhancing health security in the region. They deliberated on very pertinent issues regarding global health security, especially in #Africa, including but not limited to the role of data, ML and AI, research and innovation, manufacturing, partnerships (PPPs), local resource mobilization, global health equity, and many more, in combating global health security threats in Africa. To pinpoint a few, several speakers emphasized the critical role of #data in strengthening global health security. Heavy investment on data technologies and infrastructure, will enhance robust data collection and analysis enabling early detection and prediction of health threats, informing evidence-based decision-making, and facilitating effective response strategies. As well, by leveraging accurate and timely data, health systems can monitor disease patterns, allocate resources efficiently, and implement targeted interventions to mitigate the impact of health emergencies. The summit also underscored the importance of Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) and domestic resource mobilization in enhancing health security. Speakers advocated for collaborative efforts between governments, private sector entities, and non-governmental organizations to pool resources, share expertise, and foster innovation. Such partnerships are critical in the development of sustainable financing models, improved infrastructure, and the scaling of innovative health technologies, thereby bolstering the resilience of health systems against emerging threats. Furthermore, the conference highlighted the necessity of investing in research, training, and capacity building to effectively address health challenges. Building local capacity ensures that communities are better prepared to prevent, detect, and respond to health crises, ultimately contributing to a more secure global health landscape. Finally, it is imperative for political leaders and all stakeholders to take decisive action to transform these discussions into actions (policies and initiatives) that could safeguard public health at the local, regional and global levels. #EARGHSS 2025

🌍📢 Calling all African Youth Changemakers! Showcase your impactful initiatives, research, or projects on Antimicrobial Resistance in the AYARA-TF 2024 Youth Compendium on AMR! This compendium aims to celebrate the outstanding contributions of African youth organizations in addressing AMR across various focus areas. Selected entries will be featured in the compendium, launching in March 2025. 📌 Focus Areas: 👩⚕️ AMR and Reproductive Health 📢 Community Awareness and Advocacy 🪴 AMR and One Health 🤝 Youth Leadership in AMR 🌍 Intersection of AMR and Climate Change 💡 Research and Innovation 🎨 AMR and Art 🚻 AMR and Gender 🐾 AMR and Animals 🌿 AMR and Environment ✨ Others 📝 Submission Deadline: 25th February 2025 🔗 Submit your entry here: bit.ly/Compendium24 Let your voice shape the future of the fight against AMR! 📧 For inquiries, contact our communications support team at: ayaratf@gmail.com ReAct - Action on Antibiotic Resistance Alliance Against Antimicrobial Resistance Snowman Artland IPSF African Regional Office (IPSF AfRO) Generational Stewards for Antimicrobials (GSA) Students Against Superbugs Africa Africa Public Health Student Network Initiative - AfricaPHSN Ducit Blue Foundation @FAMSA Naomi Chikezie Brian Onditi Sano Samuel Ngoni Veddie Muzondo Dr. Gathai Mundia Maryam Abdulkarim AMRSB Hafeez Hamza Vivian Nabisere Mayowa صديق Akinpelu MD Daniel Waruingi AMR Now Ndege Ngere_D Nahashon Gicheru LUCY GATITU Africa CDC Africa CDC Youth AMREF

𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝗤𝘂𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗘𝗻𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗠𝗶𝘀𝗮𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗻𝗲𝗱 𝗣𝗲𝗲𝗿 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄𝘀: 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗴𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 Clarke and colleagues (2024) delve into the pervasive challenges qualitative researchers face when their work is reviewed by peers lacking relevant methodological expertise. Their qualitative survey of 163 researchers uncovers a troubling trend: reviewers frequently impose postpositivist norms or quantitative standards on qualitative research, undermining its unique paradigms. This mismatch appears as requests for sample generalizability, agreement among coders, or statistical validation—methods that often conflict with qualitative research approaches. The authors highlight the emotional and professional toll on researchers, particularly early-career academics, who often feel powerless in a "publish or perish" climate. Respondents reported strategies ranging from educating reviewers to reluctantly compromising methodological integrity. These findings reveal a system where peer review, intended as a quality assurance mechanism, can instead act as a gatekeeping tool, marginalizing diverse research approaches. Clarke and colleagues emphasize the need for systemic change, advocating for reviewer training, methodological screening, and editorial accountability. By addressing these issues, the academic community can ensure the integrity of qualitative research and foster inclusivity in knowledge production. Their work is a rallying cry for a peer review process that respects and upholds the methodological foundations of qualitative inquiry. Victoria Clarke, Virginia Braun, Jeffery Adams, Jane Callaghan, Andrea LaMarre, and Joanna Semlyen Luchuo Engelbert Bain

𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗽𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗰𝘆 𝘀𝗰𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗵 𝘂𝘀 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗻𝗮𝘃𝗶𝗴𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘂𝗻𝗽𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗲𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗰𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗲𝘀 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝗖𝗢𝗩𝗜𝗗-𝟭𝟵? This is the central question posed by Weible and colleagues (2020) in their comprehensive commentary on the intersection of the pandemic and public policy. The authors draw on Harold Lasswell’s vision for the policy sciences as a tool to address urgent societal challenges, presenting ten key perspectives on how policies are formulated, implemented, and evaluated during a global crisis. The paper explores the role of scientific expertise, emotional narratives, and policy networks in shaping governmental responses to COVID-19. It highlights the adaptive processes that policymakers employ, from learning through transnational collaboration to mitigating value conflicts in contentious decision-making. Weible and colleagues emphasize the dual-edged nature of crises—fostering innovation while exposing systemic inequalities, particularly between the Global North and South. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝘁𝘂𝗱𝘆 𝗮𝗹𝘀𝗼 𝗱𝗲𝗹𝘃𝗲𝘀 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗽𝗼𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗶𝘇𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝘀𝗰𝗶𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗳𝗶𝗰 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘁𝗶𝘀𝗲, 𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗴𝗲𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗰𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗶𝘀 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘃𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗿𝗼𝗹𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗲𝗺𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗽𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝗰 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲.  The authors call for further research into understudied aspects, such as the long-term impacts of policy decisions and the balance between effectiveness and accountability in transnational governance. This work underscores the policy sciences’ potential to illuminate pathways toward resilience and equity in the face of global adversity. Christopher Weible Daniel Nohrstedt Paul Cairney David Carter Deserai Crow Anna Durnovaá Tanya Heikkila · Karin Ingold · Allan McConnell Stone, Diane Luchuo Engelbert Bain

𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗳𝗿𝗮𝗴𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗽𝗿𝗶𝗺𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵𝗰𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗯𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝗻𝘀𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗲𝗾𝘂𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗽𝗲𝗼𝗽𝗹𝗲-𝗰𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗰𝗮𝗿𝗲? Gatome-Munyua and colleagues (2025) confront this question, revealing a critical analysis of the inefficiencies and inequities driven by fragmented funding mechanisms in low- and middle-income countries. Despite global commitments like the Alma Ata (1978) and Astana (2018) declarations, primary healthcare (PHC) remains under-resourced due to political and fiscal constraints, exacerbated by fragmented funding flows. The authors pinpoint key drivers of this fragmentation: low public spending, reliance on external funds, and proliferation of uncoordinated health schemes. These factors undermine equity, resource efficiency, and the effectiveness of service delivery. Drawing from case studies in Argentina, Burkina Faso, Indonesia, and Tanzania, the paper highlights pragmatic solutions, such as consolidating funding pools, harmonizing purchasing functions, and streamlining funding flows to providers. Indonesia’s integration of insurance schemes under JKN and Tanzania’s direct health facility financing exemplify pathways to improve resource allocation and service quality. Gatome-Munyua and colleagues advocate for system-wide reforms emphasizing universality and equity, urging policymakers to strengthen public funding, manage political dynamics, and leverage strategic purchasing to mitigate fragmentation. Their work is a clarion call to reimagine PHC financing for sustainable and inclusive health systems Agnes Gatome-Munyua Susan Powers Sparkes Gemini Mtei Martin Sabignoso Prastuti Soewondo Pierre Yaméogo Kara Hanson Sheryll Cashin Luchuo Engelbert Bain

𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗱𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗲𝘀 𝗴𝗹𝗼𝗯𝗮𝗹 𝘁𝗿𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗶𝗻 𝘀𝗰𝗶𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝘀𝘁𝘀 𝘁𝗼𝗱𝗮𝘆? According to Cologna and colleagues (2024), public trust in scientists remains moderately high across 68 countries, as demonstrated by an extensive survey of over 71,000 respondents. This research, published in Nature Human Behaviour, challenges the pervasive narrative of a "crisis of trust" in science. 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗮𝗹 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗺𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗽𝗲𝗼𝗽𝗹𝗲 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗼𝗻𝗹𝘆 𝘁𝗿𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝘀𝗰𝗶𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝘀𝘁𝘀 𝗯𝘂𝘁 𝗮𝗹𝘀𝗼 𝗱𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗶𝗿 𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗶𝗻𝘃𝗼𝗹𝘃𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗶𝗻 𝗽𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗰𝘆𝗺𝗮𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴. Trust in scientists correlates positively with perceptions of competence, integrity, and societal benefit. However, disparities in trust were observed based on demographic, ideological, and regional factors. Women, urban dwellers, and individuals with liberal or left-leaning views exhibited higher trust, while science-related populist attitudes and social dominance orientation predicted lower trust.  𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗹𝘆, 𝗿𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗶𝗼𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝗻𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝘁𝗿𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗶𝗻 𝗺𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀, 𝗿𝗲𝗳𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗮𝘀𝘀𝘂𝗺𝗽𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗶𝗻𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗳𝗹𝗶𝗰𝘁 𝗯𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝗿𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘀𝗰𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲. Cologna and colleagues emphasize that trust is critical for addressing global crises like climate change and pandemics. Their findings advocate for greater transparency, public engagement, and alignment of scientific priorities with societal expectations. By debunking misconceptions about a universal trust deficit, this study underscores the nuanced dynamics shaping public confidence in science worldwide Viktoria Cologna Niels G. Mede  Ed Maibach  Sabina Mihelj  Nor Izzatina Abdul Aziz  Suleiman Abdulsalam, Nurulaini Abu Shamsi, Balazs Aczel, Indro Adinugroho, Eleonora Alabrese, Alaa Aldoh, Mark Alfano , Innocent Mbulli Ali, Mohammed Alsobay, Marlene Altenmüller Michael Alvarez, Richard Amoako, tabitha amollo, Patrick Ansah, Denisa Apriliawati, Flavio Azevedo, Ani Bajrami  Ronita Bardhan Keagile Bati, Eri Bertsou, Prof. Dr., Cornelia Betsch  Apurav Bhatiya  Rahul Bhui  Olga Białobrzeska  Michal Bilewicz  Luchuo Engelbert Bain,

It was an honor to speak at two webinars during World AMR Awareness Week 2024 (WAAW)! I had the privilege of connecting with young people in Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania during WAAW. At the webinar hosted by Tanzania Pharmaceutical students' Association and Makerere University Pharmacy Students' Association, we explored the challenges and learning opportunities for young people in the fight against AMR. Later, I joined the Moi University Student One Health Innovation Club alongside Jimmy Nkaiwuatei from Zihi Institute, for a lively discussion on how young people can drive innovation and accelerate action against AMR. Witnessing their enthusiasm was truly inspiring. I would like to thank the organisers for having given me the opportunity. AFROHUN - UGANDA (Africa One Health University Network- Uganda Chapter) Wendy Ndaga African Youth Antimicrobial Resistance Alliance Task Force (AYARA-TF) Sharon Mbindyo #WorldAMRWeek #WAAW #YouthAction #AntimicrobialResistance