Who We Are

We're an evidence-informed organization translating health research into sustainable impact.

From evidence to action

Utafiti Wellness Research Association (UWRA) was founded in 2025 to address the persistent gap between academic | professional research and tangible community health outcomes. We believe that rigorous evidence should inform every health decision, policy, and intervention.

Our name "Utafiti" — Swahili for research — reflects our commitment to generating, translating, and applying knowledge where it matters most: in communities, clinics, and policy rooms across Kenya and beyond.

We work at the intersection of health research, community engagement, innovation, and capacity building. Our approach combines scientific rigor with grassroots relevance, ensuring that evidence translates into measurable improvements in health and wellness.

With a growing network of fellows, partners, and health practitioners, we are building a movement that places evidence at the heart of community health. Our work is guided by local realities and global best practices.

Our Core Purpose

UWRA exists to ensure that no research finding remains on a shelf. We transform data, studies, and evidence into:

  • Community health programs
  • Policy briefs and recommendations
  • Training curricula for health workers
  • Scalable health innovations
  • Data-driven advocacy campaigns

Our Approach

Evidence-first
Community-centered
Impact-driven
Partnership-oriented
Innovation-focused
Locally-rooted

How we make a difference

Capacity Building

We train researchers and health professionals to translate evidence into practice, fostering a new generation of change-makers.

Community Engagement

We work directly with communities to identify health priorities and co-create solutions that are culturally appropriate and sustainable.

Policy Influence

We translate research findings into policy briefs and actionable recommendations that inform health policy at local and national levels.

Organizational milestones

2025
Founded & established

Utafiti Wellness Research Association officially founded in Nairobi, Kenya with a mission to bridge health research and community impact. Core team assembled and initial strategic plan developed.

2025
First research translation pilots

Launched pilot community health programs focusing on maternal health, disease prevention, and knowledge dissemination, reaching over 3,000 individuals within six months.

2025-2026
Fellowship program inception

Inaugurated the Research Translation Fellowship with a rigorous curriculum; first cohort (inaugural) produced 17 trained fellows contributing to local evidence-based interventions.

2026
Expansion & strategic growth

Established six core departments, launched advanced masterclasses in research methodology, and formalized partnerships with 8+ health organizations across East Africa.

2026
Impact scaling & Cohort 2 preparation

Reached 50+ fellows trained cumulatively, 5,000+ community members through outreach, and 22+ ready-to-publish docs. Preparing for second cohort and cross-border health initiatives.

50+

Fellows trained

28+

Community engagements

5K+

People reached

22+

Ready-to-publish

8+

Partners

Join us in translating evidence to action

Whether as a fellow, partner, or supporter — your contribution advances health and wellness across communities.

Partner with us Apply for fellowship