The Malawi‑Liverpool‑Wellcome Research Programme (MLW) has been awarded a significant new seven‑year core grant from Wellcome, dedicated to advancing health science grant opportunities and strengthening health research training Africa from 2025 to 2032. The funding will also unlock broader African research funding opportunities for institutions across the region.
A Landmark Award for African Research Leadership
Based in Blantyre, Malawi, MLW’s new funding package will underpin its scientific strategy, training programmes and research initiatives that span infectious diseases, maternal, neonatal and child health, health systems, climate‑related impacts and mental health. According to Programme Director Prof Henry Mwandumba, “This funding is a vote of confidence… It will allow us to scale high‑impact health research, accelerate clinical trials, invest in data science and innovation, and deepen our commitment to training and equitable partnerships that translate research into better health outcomes.”
Building the Next Generation of Female and Regional Leaders
A core aim is to expand MLW’s training pipeline for African researchers. With this investment, more early‑career scientists will access scholarships, fellowships and mentoring under the initiative’s expanded training ecosystem. The grant will help deliver a robust platform for health research training Africa, increasing access to world‑class research infrastructure and global collaboration.
Strengthening Partnerships and Infrastructure
MLW will deepen institutional partnerships with the University of Liverpool, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine and others to deliver on African research funding opportunities across disciplines. Enhanced platforms such as an Integrated Clinical Trials Unit, Data Science & Computational Modelling Unit and Innovation & Translation Hub will create an environment for researchers to engage in global science.
Why This Matters for Health Outcomes in Africa
Women and men involved in the health workforce often face the challenge of limited access to funding and advanced training—despite delivering from the front line. By tapping into expanded health science grant opportunities and bridging gaps in African research funding opportunities, MLW is positioned to elevate local leadership, strengthen health systems and drive lasting impact.
If you’re planning travel to Malawi or the region for health conferences, research collaboration visits or training workshops, you can explore travel logistics and booking via our AfrikEye travel booking site.
This story was first reported by MLW. Read the full article here.
