Hematology & Oncology Specialist
Prof. Jessie Githanga is an Adjunct Associate Professor at the University of Nairobi with over 30 years of experience in clinical practice, research, and medical education. She is a leading expert in hematology and pediatric oncology, dedicated to improving healthcare systems and clinical trial infrastructure in Kenya.
Academic & Clinical Leadership
- Teaching Excellence: Over 30 years of experience teaching undergraduate and postgraduate students in hematology.
- Research Mentorship: Supervised numerous PhD and master’s level theses and dissertations.
- Clinical Practice: Served as an honorary consultant in hematology at Kenyatta National Hospital for three decades, specializing in pediatric hemato-oncology.
Research & Innovation
- Clinical Trials: Principal Investigator for over 15 clinical trials (Phases I–IV) focused on sickle cell disease and oncology.
- Infrastructure Development: Instrumental in establishing the multidisciplinary research center for clinical trials at Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital.
- Collaborative Studies: Leads collaborative research initiatives specifically targeting childhood cancer in Kenya.
Policy & Advocacy
- Government Advisory: Member of multiple Ministry of Health technical working groups for cancer and sickle cell disease.
- Capacity Building: Involved in in-service training for healthcare workers across all professional cadres.
- Global Health Initiatives: Executive Committee member of the Nairobi City Cancer Challenge.
Professional Affiliations & Awards
- Founding Roles: Founder member of the College of Pathologists of ECSA and the Kenya Society for Haematology and Oncology.
- Board Leadership: Board member of the Kenya Network of Cancer Organizations and trustee of the Kenya Childhood Cancer Trust.
- Top Honors: Recipient of the 2025 National Cancer Institute of Kenya Excellence Award and the CEO Global Lifetime Achievement Award for Education and Training