UK-based Malaria Consortium: Cameroonian, Prof Wilfred Mbacham, appointed Board Chair.

Malaria Consortium is an international non-profit organization, specialised in the comprehensive control of malaria and other communicable diseases.

The appointment of the experienced researcher was made public Monday July 31. 

Prof Mbacham was appointed to replace Prof Marcel Tanner, who stepped down from the function after serving the organisation for seven years.

“Malaria Consortium is delighted to announce the appointment of Professor Wilfred Mbacham as Chair of the Board of Trustees,” the organisation announced. 

In his function as Chairperson, Prof Mbacham will play a pivotal role in guiding the organisation’s strategic direction and ensuring its mission is carried out effectively.

In his acceptance statement, the prominent medic said he was elated by the appointment and is committed to working together with the rest of the team to promote health and save lives in Africa and Asia.

“This is the pinnacle of my career in science diplomacy. I am elated to join the Malaria Consortium team to continue championing the prevention, control and treatment of malaria, communicable diseases and combat malnutrition through technovation transfer for ongoing and future projects,” he said. 

He further said “together, we will continue to demonstrate how investments in low-cost strategies by those who live and experience these illnesses, will ensure a high-impact promotion for better health and the saving of lives in Asia and Africa”.

Meanwhile, the outgoing Chairperson expressed gratitude for the opportunity given to him to contribute to the organisation’s success. 

“It has been a privilege to serve as the Chair of Malaria Consortium's Board of Trustees. Together, we have achieved significant milestones, navigated a global pandemic and positively impacted the lives of countless individuals,” Prof Tanner stated. 

He also expressed confidence in Prof Mbacham’s appointment, which, he said, will bring fresh perspectives and his strong leadership will help to propel Malaria Consortium further towards its mission.

Commenting on the appointment, the Malaria Consortium’s Chief Executive, James Tibenderana, said they count on the rich experience of Prof Mbacham to make an invaluable contribution and lasting impact to their cause.  

“We are delighted to welcome Wilfred as our new Chair of the Board. His wealth of experience and dedication to our cause will be invaluable as we strive to expand our reach and make a lasting impact,” he said, adding that “we are confident that under Wilfred's leadership, we will achieve new heights particularly as we look to build upon our 20-year-old milestone this year”.

Prof Mbacham’s wealth of experience

The renowned Cameroonian scientist brings to the UK-based international organisation, a rich and diversified experience in science and research for the past three decades. 

He has occupied several functions across organisations. 

Prof Mbacham has served as Coordinator of the Antimalaria Drug Resistance Network at the World Health Organisation’s Tropical Disease Research, TDR-WHO; and Chair of the Programme Management Committee of the African Regional Cooperative Agreement for Research, Development and Training Related to Nuclear Science and Technology, abbreviated as AFRA-IAEA in Vienna. 

He is also the Founding Executive Secretary of the Multilateral Initiative on Malaria Society, MIM Society. Professor Mbacham has a unique blend of expertise encompassing public health biotechnology, implementation research, host and pathogen genomics, socio-economics and health systems, and strategic planning and curriculum development.

As Chair, Prof Mbacham will work closely with the members of the Board of Trustees and the Chief Executive, in providing strategic stewardship and fostering collaboration and assurance. Their expertise is also said to be instrumental in supporting the organisation's growth and ensuring it remains aligned to its core values and vision.