The Sub-Saharan Africa Advanced Consortium for Biostatistics (SSACAB) has emphasized the need to bridge the gap between researchers and policymakers, calling for stronger relationships between the two to promote the development of evidence-based policies.

The call was made by SSACAB Programmes Director, Professor Tobias Chirwa, on Monday in Salima during the opening of a Health Policy and Biostatistics Research Engagement Conference.

He noted that the persistent disconnect between research institutions and policymakers continues to hinder the country from fully harnessing the benefits of critical research findings. 

“There is a wealth of data and valuable insights coming from our research institutions, but without proper engagement with policymakers, this knowledge often fails to translate into impactful policy decisions,” said Chirwa.

He further stressed the importance of structured platforms for dialogue, saying, “Creating regular opportunities for interaction and knowledge exchange can significantly enhance the uptake of research in policy circles.”

Echoing the call for stronger collaboration, University of Malawi (UNIMA) Vice Chancellor, Professor Samson Sajidu, emphasized that closer ties between researchers and decision-makers are crucial for the accurate interpretation and practical application of research recommendations.

“Policymakers need to be part of the research process from the onset — from designing studies to interpreting results,” Sajidu said. “This collaboration ensures that the evidence generated is both relevant and actionable.”

The three-day conference has brought together key stakeholders in health policy, research, and biostatistics to explore strategies for bridging the gap between evidence generation and policy formulation. 

It aims to foster partnerships that ensure research findings are not only published but also translated into effective public health interventions.