Who Are We
Evidence for Better Health (EBH) is a Tanzania-based organization committed to strengthening the connection between research, policy and practice. We work to ensure that locally relevant evidence is not only generated, but also communicated, understood and used to inform decisions that improve health and wellbeing.
Why We Exist
Valuable health research is generated every day, yet important findings do not always reach the policymakers, practitioners and communities who can use them. Evidence for Better Health was established to help bridge this gap by supporting evidence generation, strengthening research capacity, translating research into accessible formats and creating platforms for evidence exchange.
Our Vision
A future where relevant, reliable and locally grounded evidence informs decisions and contributes to better health for all.
Our Mission
To strengthen the generation, translation and use of health evidence by connecting researchers, decision-makers, practitioners and communities.
Our Values
Evidence – We promote rigorous, relevant and responsible use of evidence.
Integrity – We uphold transparency, accountability and ethical practice.
Equity – We recognize that evidence and its benefits should respond to diverse populations and contexts.
Collaboration – We work across disciplines, institutions and communities
Impact – We focus on translating knowledge into meaningful improvements in health.
Our Team
Evidence for Better Health brings together professionals with expertise across health research, epidemiology, data science, evidence translation and public health. Our multidisciplinary approach enables us to connect rigorous research with policy, practice and community needs.
Dr. Miriam Gerd Puschel
Founder & Executive Director
Dr. Miriam Gerd Puschel is a medical doctor and epidemiologist with a Master’s degree in Epidemiology and Applied Biostatistics and training in Implementation Science. Her interests include implementation research, antimicrobial resistance, global surgery, and using data to generate actionable evidence for health.
She has experience coordinating multidisciplinary and international research, including serving as Research Coordinator for InciSioN Tanzania and leading a finalist team in the Vivli AMR Data Challenge. Her work focuses on translating data and research into evidence that can inform real-world health decisions.
Brian L. Matemba
Head of Research & Consultancy
Brian L. Matemba is a clinical researcher and applied data analyst with a Master’s degree in Clinical Research and a background in Medical Laboratory Sciences. His expertise spans epidemiology, machine learning and the analysis of complex clinical and population health data, with particular experience in antimicrobial resistance, infectious diseases and national health surveys.
He has contributed to multidisciplinary research and national health evaluations and was Lead Data Analyst in the Vivli AMR Surveillance Data Challenge, where his team was selected as a finalist. At Evidence for Better Health, he leads research and consultancy activities, applying rigorous analytical methods to generate evidence that can inform health programmes, policy and practice.
Jesca B. Mwakabumbila
Head of Programs & Outreach
Jesca B. Mwakabumbila is an epidemiologist and public health researcher with a Master’s degree in Epidemiology and Applied Biostatistics and a background in Medical Laboratory Sciences. Her interests span epidemiological research, implementation science, data analysis and the translation of evidence into practical health programmes.
She currently works in research and academia, contributing to teaching, research development and student mentorship in epidemiology and biostatistics. At Evidence for Better Health, she leads the planning, implementation and monitoring of programmes and coordinates stakeholder engagement and community outreach, helping connect evidence with the communities and stakeholders it is intended to serve.
Dr. Happiness D. Kajoka
Head of Administration & Operations
Happiness D. Kajoka is a medical doctor and epidemiologist with a Master’s degree in Epidemiology and Applied Biostatistics. Her experience spans clinical research, cancer research, epidemiology, research coordination and the management of multidisciplinary and international research collaborations.
She has coordinated research within the KCMC–Duke collaboration and currently coordinates the Tanzania component of the Network for Oncology Research in Africa, supporting study implementation, stakeholder coordination, regulatory compliance and research operations. At Evidence for Better Health, she oversees administration and operations, helping ensure effective organizational systems, coordination and day-to-day implementation of EBH activities.
Dr. Frijenia G. Sumbai
Head of Public Relations
Dr. Frijenia G. Sumbai is a medical doctor and epidemiologist with a Master’s degree in Epidemiology and Applied Biostatistics and is currently pursuing a PhD in Epidemiology. Her research interests span maternal and child health, antimicrobial resistance, global health, implementation science and the use of evidence to improve health systems and decision-making.
She has experience coordinating multidisciplinary and international research and has contributed to research spanning antimicrobial resistance, injury and maternal and child health. At Evidence for Better Health, she leads public relations, organizational communication and public engagement, working to strengthen how research and evidence are communicated to stakeholders, partners, communities and the wider public.
Ajolisia Mnoni
Head of Accounts & Finance
Ajolisia Mnoni is an actuarial and insurance professional with a Bachelor’s degree in Actuarial Science and experience in financial management, risk assessment, claims management and data-informed decision-making. Her professional background combines analytical expertise with financial oversight, regulatory compliance and organizational accountability.
She has extensive experience in the insurance sector, including claims analysis, risk assessment, reserving and reinsurance, alongside leadership experience in professional settings. At Evidence for Better Health, she oversees financial planning, budgeting, accounting and financial reporting, helping to strengthen financial accountability, compliance and the sustainable management of organizational resources.
