Research Scientist | Evidence Synthesis Lead
Sherry Rita Ahirirwe
A skilled epidemiologist and evidence synthesis expert, Sherry Rita Ahirirwe, MPH, combines advanced research methodologies with real-world policy engagement to drive measurable improvements in population health. At ACRES, she leads the translation of complex data into actionable recommendations for government entities, NGOs, and global health partners.
Core Expertise:
Epidemiological Intelligence
- Designs high-impact studies on disease patterns/determinants
- Leads data collection, analysis, and interpretation for national health programs
Digital Data Solutions:
- Advanced proficiency in R programming (data wrangling, visualization)
- GIS mapping (QGIS) for spatial epidemiology and resource targeting
- Kobo Toolbox deployments for real-time field data capture
Evidence-to-Action:
- Develops monitoring frameworks for public health initiatives
- Builds capacity in evidence use among policymakers
- Champions participatory approaches for community-led health solutions
Selected Publications
- Amodan, B. O., Kisakye, A., Okumu, P. T., Ahirirwe, S. R., Kadobera, D., Driwale, A., & Ario, A. R. (2022). Trends of key surveillance performance indicators of acute flaccid paralysis: a descriptive analysis, Uganda, 2015–2020. BMC Public Health, 22(1), 1694.
- Ahirirwe, S. R., Kwiringira, A., Kwesiga, B., Bulage, L., Kadobera, D., & Ario, A. R. Increasing trend in all–cause mortality at Regional Referral Hospitals in Uganda during the COVID–19 pandemic.
- Ahirirwe, S. R., Migisha, R., Mwine, P., Bulage, L., Kwesiga, B., Kadobera, D., & Ario, A. R. (2023). Investigation of human tungiasis cases, Sheema District, Uganda, November 2021-February 2022. Pan African Medical Journal, 46(1).
- Kwiringira, Andrew, Carol Nanziri, Edirisa Juniour Nsubuga, Stella Martha Migamba, Vivian Ntono, Immaculate Atuhaire, Sherry Rita Ahirirwe et al. “Ownership and use of long-lasting insecticidal nets three months after a mass distribution campaign in Uganda, 2021.” Malaria Journal21, no. 1 (2022): 367.
- Ahirirwe, S. R., Kwiringira, A., Kwesiga, B., Bulage, L., Kadobera, D., & Ario, A. R. (2022). Increasing trend in all–cause mortality at Regional Referral Hospitals in Uganda during the COVID–19 pandemic (2020–2021).
- Wanyana, M.W., Akunzirwe, R., King, P., Atuhaire, I., Zavuga, R., Lubwama, B., Kabami, Z., Ahirirwe, S.R., Ninsiima, M., Naiga, H.N. and Zalwango, J.F., 2024. Performance and impact of contact tracing in the Sudan virus outbreak in Uganda, September 2022-January 2023. International Journal of Infectious Diseases, 141, p.106959.
- Kabami, Z., Riolexus Ario, A., Harris, J., Ninsiima, M., Ahirirwe, S. R., Aceng, J. R., … & Kiggundu, T. Epidemiology of Cases of Sudan Virus Disease in Uganda, August-November, 2022.
- Kwiringira, A., Nanziri, C., Migamba, S. M., Ahirirwe, S. R., Kadobera, D., & Ario, A. R. (2021). Ownership and Use of Long-lasting Insecticidal Nets and Factors Associated, Immediately after a Mass Distribution Campaign in Uganda: A Cross-sectional Survey of Fourteen districts.
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