Bridging the gap between research and policy

Bridging the gap between research and policy: a first of its own for Malawi

This week, we were part of a momentous moment in Malawi’s health history: the country’s first-ever Health Policy and Biostatistics Research Engagement Workshop. Traditionally, policymakers and researchers have missed critical opportunities to collaborate on implementing policies that address the country’s persistent health challenges; however, they have now come together to strengthen their relationships for meaningful collaboration.

SSACAB cofounded the event which brought together biostatisticians, researchers and policymakers with the aim of creating a platform to collaborate on health policy formation and implementation.

The workshop was attended by Professor Tobias Chirwa, Director of SSACAB; Caroline Vika, Programme Manager; Dr Halima Twabi and Dr Fiskani Konowe, both SSACAB alumni; Dr Tsirizani Kaombe, a SSACAB collaborator; and Geoffrey Singini, a SSACAB PhD Fellow. In attendance were key academics from University of Malawi, the National Planning Commission representatives, Malawi Ministry of Health representatives and key Malawian researchers. This event truly marked the first structured effort to bring together these diverse actors in dialogue.

On Day 1, Professor Chirwa delivered the keynote address on the discipline of biostatistics and its relevance to the field of health.

Prof Chirwa’s message underscored that the discipline is not only technical but also strategic—central to how societies plan, prioritise, and protect public health.

Across the discussions, a clear message emerged. Policymakers noted that research findings are often produced but not translated into actionable insights that can guide programmes or legislation. Researchers, on the other hand, observed that governments tend to work in silos, pursuing distinct objectives without shared mechanisms for collaboration. This disconnect, they agreed, limits the national impact of critical evidence being used in policy making and ultimately, in health settings.

Yet there was a broad consensus that this could change. Biostatistics provides a crucial bridge between evidence and policy. When properly interpreted and communicated, data can illuminate where systems are working effectively, where gaps persist, and how interventions can be adapted to maximise public benefit.

This inaugural workshop marks a significant milestone, which SSACAB is proud to have been a part of. It signals a growing recognition that partnerships between universities, policymakers, and technical experts are essential for developing responsive and equitable health systems.

Science for Africa Foundation,

UKAID,

Wellcome Trust,

University of the Witwatersrand,

CRAFS

University of Malawi