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Two researchers working with a microscope

About

Our story

Building a Foundation for Better Health

Nyanja Health Research Institute is a locally owned health research institute based in rural Malawi, established to address important health challenges through rigorous, locally relevant research. Its work focuses on generating evidence that responds to the needs of Malawi’s health system and can inform national and global health policy.

Beyond conducting research, Nyanja is committed to building the next generation of African researchers by providing training, mentorship, and opportunities for young researchers from low- and middle-income countries to independently conduct high-quality and impactful research.

Today, Nyanja’s work spans research and surveillance, scientific capacity-building, and community initiatives, with a growing vision to establish a dedicated campus in Salima that will support research, training, student internships, accommodation, and mentorship.

Satellite view of Nyanja’s 13-acre plot in Salima
Our Mission

What Drives Our Work

To generate high-quality health research, strengthen scientific capacity, and translate evidence into meaningful improvements in health and communities.

  • Conduct rigorous, locally relevant research that addresses pressing health challenges.
  • Train, mentor, and support the next generation of researchers.
  • Translate research findings into practical solutions, policy, and better health outcomes.
  • Work with communities, institutions, and partners to advance health research.
A researcher looking into a microscope
Our Vision

The Future We Envision

To build a future where locally led research and strong scientific capacity drive better health outcomes in Malawi and beyond.

  • Promote high-quality, innovative, and locally relevant health research.
  • Develop a skilled and confident generation of African scientists.
  • Turn evidence and knowledge into meaningful improvements in people’s lives.
  • Build partnerships and systems that create sustainable health impact.
Students in lab coats working in a laboratory
Our Values

The Principles That Guide Our Work

  • Integrity

    We uphold honesty, transparency and ethical standards in everything we do.

  • Excellence

    We pursue rigorous, high-quality research and strive for continuous improvement.

  • Collaboration

    We build meaningful partnerships with researchers, institutions, communities, and stakeholders.

  • Innovation

    We embrace new ideas, approaches, and technologies to address complex health challenges.

  • Impact

    We focus on research that creates meaningful and lasting improvements in health and communities.

  • Empowerment

    We equip young African researchers with the skills, confidence and opportunities to lead.

Our Team

Meet The People Behind the Work

  • Portrait of Dr. Beth Tippett Barr

    Dr. Beth Tippett Barr

    Founder and Director

  • Portrait of Tiwonge Chirwa

    Tiwonge Chirwa

    Technical Advisor

  • Portrait of Tassyanne Kachingwe

    Tassyanne Kachingwe

    Director of Operations and Management

  • Ben Sitolo

    Clinician

Children gathered at a fence in Salima

Generating evidence for a healthier Malawi.