Research Scientist | Evidence Synthesis Lead
Sherry Rita Ahirirwe
Sherry Rita Ahirirwe is an epidemiologist and evidence synthesis expert who specializes in turning complex data into a clear roadmap for action. At ACRES, she serves as a link between the science of patterns and the reality of policy implementation. Sherry analyses data and the systems that allow government entities, NGOs, and partners to visualize their impact and target their resources where they are needed most.
In a world of information overload, Sherry, who heads our Evidence synthesis unit, provides the technical clarity required for effective governance. She is a master of advanced data wrangling and visualization through R programming, transforming abstract numbers into high-impact evidence.
By utilizing GIS mapping (QGIS) for spatial epidemiology, she allows policymakers to see where health gaps exist in real-time. Her expertise in deploying Kobo Toolbox for field data capture ensures that the evidence ACRES provides is rooted in the most current, accurate field data available.
Beyond the screen, Sherry is a champion of participatory approaches, working to ensure that evidence isn’t just delivered to communities, but is used to empower 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.
- 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.
Contact:
