Samwelis a Medical Entomologist with several years of experience studying Arthropod vectors of major Afro-tropical diseases in the frontline. In previous roles and for his doctorate, he investigated the transmission of Malaria, Rift Valley Fever, Dengue and other mosquito-borneviruses in semi-arid pastoral ecosystems.

Before joining the ATRC, Sam worked for the International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology, Kenya and the Kenya Medical Research Institute. He leads the development and evaluation of vector control products in our laboratories and semi-field/field station in lower Moshi, Tanzania. Sam finds fulfilment in constantly developing and improving technologies that save lives, not limited to Long-Lasting Insecticidal Nets, Indoor Residual Sprays and Spatial repellents.

“Imagine a world without vector-borne diseases. Through active innovation of locally adapted technologies, we can achieve that world.” Samwel Okello

Sam holds a PhDin Entomology from the University of Pretoria, South Africaand a Master of Science degree from Kenyatta University in Kenya.In addition, he has several certifications, including the prestigious Leadership and Development course in the Science of Eradication: Malaria, offered by Harvard University in collaboration with the Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute and Barcelona Institute for Global Health.