Lenson Kariuki

Lenson Kariuki is a seasoned medical entomologist and parasitologist with over 15 years of experience in the prevention and control of malaria, vector-borne, and neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). As an Assistant Director at the KNPHI-MoH, he provides strategic leadership in integrated vector management, policy development, and disease surveillance. His work focuses on integrating NTD interventions into Kenya’s healthcare and digital health systems while strengthening collaboration with development and implementing partners towards achievement of Kenya NTD master plan 2023-2027 agenda and WHO NTD roadmap 2030.

He holds a Master’s degree in Tropical and Infectious Diseases and is pursuing a PhD in the same field at the University of Nairobi. Lenson previously earned a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology (First Class Honours) from Moi University. Over his career, he has led the development of national malaria and NTD control policies, established Kenya’s entomological surveillance system, and contributed to the detection of Anopheles stephensi in the country. He is also a fellow at the Center for Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis (CEMA), where he is undertaking a research project on the characterization of malaria vectors in Kenya. His study aims to determine the species composition, spatio-temporal occurrence, and infectivity of malaria vectors; quantify host-feeding patterns; and model the climatic drivers of vector occurrence and infectivity to produce validated predictive maps under current and future climate scenarios. This work integrates infectious disease modelling with field entomology to guide data-driven vector control strategies.

Recognized for his leadership, Lenson received the national award for guiding Kenya’s certification as Free of Guinea Worm Disease. He has also served as a mentor with the WHO’s Structured Operational Research Training (SORT IT). He has been a keynote speaker and delegate at several international forums on malaria, vector-borne diseases, and NTDs and public health research.

Outside of work, Lenson enjoys mentoring young scientists, reading about public health innovations, and exploring different cultures through travel.