News

We are delighted to announce that our esteemed colleague, Prof. Nyovani Madise, has been appointed as the President of the Union for African Population Studies (UAPS). This momentous occasion was marked during the 9th African Population Conference, and we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Prof. Madise on this prestigious recognition.

Prof. Madise, the Director of Development Policy and Head of Malawi Office of the African Institute for Development Policy (AFIDEP), has been instrumental in advancing evidence-informed decision-making (EIDM) among policymakers and the broad research community. Her dedication to research leadership and capacity building is pivotal in accelerating the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) across Africa.

Her research portfolio is extensive and impactful, focusing on maternal and child health, nutrition, sexual and reproductive health and rights, food security, and population dynamics. Prof. Madise has over 120 peer-reviewed publications that have significantly advanced our understanding of the relationships between poverty and health.

Before her role at AFIDEP, Prof. Madise served as Professor of Demography and Social Statistics at the University of Southampton, where she also held several leadership positions, including Associate Dean (Research) and Deputy Head of the School of Social Sciences. Her previous roles include Senior Research Scientist at the African Population and Health Research Center in Kenya and Lecturer of Statistics at the University of Malawi.

Prof. Madise’s expertise extends beyond academia. She sits on numerous scientific advisory committees, including those for the UK Department for International Development, UK Department of Health and Social Care, and the WHO Strategic Advisory Group on Malaria Eradication. She has also advised many governments, including those of Botswana, Kenya, Malawi, Mauritius, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, and the UK. She was a member of the Independent Group of Scientists who authored the Global Sustainable Development Report 2023, and was winner of the Fayzah M. Al-Kharafi Award by The World Academy of Sciences in 2023.

At AFIDEP, we have witnessed firsthand Prof. Madise’s dedication, expertise, and vision. As the new President of the UAPS, her leadership will undoubtedly inspire and guide the organisation towards new milestones. Her presence at the helm will foster collaboration and drive impactful research that addresses Africa’s critical population challenges.

We are confident that under Prof. Madise’s leadership, the UAPS will continue to thrive and significantly contribute to the development of effective population policies across Africa. Her commitment to sustainable development and empowering communities aligns perfectly with AFIDEP’s mission and values.

Congratulations, Prof. Madise! We are proud to have you as part of the AFIDEP family and look forward to witnessing the positive impact of your leadership on UAPS and the broader community.