Makerere University | Uganda
AUTHOR PROFILE
Orcid ID
EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS
Mwaka Erisa Sabakaki's academic journey began at Mwiri Primary School, where he earned his Primary Leaving Examination Certificate in 1986. He continued his education at Busoga College Mwiri, obtaining the Uganda Certificate of Education in 1990 and the Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education in 1992. He pursued a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery at Makerere University, Kampala, from 1992 to 1997. Following this, he achieved a Master of Medicine in Orthopaedic Surgery from Makerere University between 2000 and 2003, where his thesis focused on the clinical and radiological presentation of osteonecrosis of the femoral head among sickle cell patients. He furthered his academic credentials with a Doctor of Philosophy in Medical Science from Fukui University School of Medicine in Japan, concentrating on histo-pathological and immuno-histological findings related to calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate crystal deposition in the ligamentum flavum of the cervical spine.
PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS
Mwaka's professional career is multifaceted, combining academic responsibilities, clinical practice, and extensive involvement in research ethics. Since December 2020, he has been an Associate Professor at Makerere University College of Health Sciences, School of Biomedical Sciences, Department of Anatomy. His clinical practice includes serving as an orthopaedic and spine surgeon at Mulago National Referral and Teaching Hospital. Additionally, he has held significant roles, such as the Chair of the Makerere University School of Biomedical Sciences Higher Degrees Research Ethics Committee (SBSHREC), where he oversees the regulation of research involving human participants and study animals.
Mwaka's contributions to the medical field are substantial, particularly in the areas of anatomy, orthopaedics, bioethics, and health research ethics. He has a notable interest in spine conditions, occupational health, bone health in HIV, and the ethics of medical care, biobanking, and genomics. His research includes supervising graduate studies and conducting his own investigations, with a significant focus on ethical standards and the responsible conduct of research. He is a key member and co-investigator in various training programs, including the Fogarty-funded International Health Ethics Training (IHRET) master's program.
IMPACT AND INFLUENCE
Mwaka has been recognized for his significant contributions to medical education, clinical care, and research. He is a member of multiple professional organizations, including the Uganda Medical Association, Association of Surgeons of Uganda, Uganda Orthopaedic Association, and International Society of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology (SICOT). His involvement in these organizations has enhanced his professional skills and fostered teamwork and communication within the medical community.
AWARDS AND HONORS
Mwaka's excellence in his field has been acknowledged through numerous awards and honors. Notably, he received the Prof. Medi Kawuma Excellence in Medical Ethics Award in 2023 from the Uganda Medical Association, recognizing his outstanding contributions to research, clinical care, and medical education. He has also been honored by the Uganda Orthopaedic Association and the South African Research Ethics Training Initiative (SARETI) for his academic and professional achievements.
ACADEMIC SITES
Mwaka has actively contributed to multiple technical advisory committees and data and safety management boards. His roles include overseeing studies on severe acute malnutrition, HIV outcomes improvement using mobile phone-based support, growth and development in stunted children, clinical trials on natural therapeutics, and respiratory interventions. His work in these areas underscores his dedication to improving health outcomes through research and ethical oversight.
LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS
Mwaka's legacy is marked by his dedication to education, clinical excellence, and ethical research practices. His contributions have significantly advanced the fields of orthopaedics, bioethics, and health research ethics. Moving forward, his continued involvement in mentoring and training future medical professionals and researchers will further solidify his impact on the medical community. His role in developing and implementing ethical guidelines for clinical research will ensure the responsible conduct of research and the protection of participants' rights and welfare.
NOTBLE PUBLICATIONS