During the memorial service of Dr. Prosper Chaki, colleagues, friends, partners, and family gathered to honour the life and legacy of a distinguished malaria researcher and public health leader whose work left a lasting impact in Tanzania and beyond.

Dr. Yeromin Mlacha, a colleague and close friend, reflected on Dr. Chaki’s early life and professional journey, tracing his career back to Ifakara in the early 2000s where he began as a research assistant. Through dedication and excellence, Dr. Chaki steadily rose through the ranks to become a Chief Research Scientist, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues along the way.

The Chief Executive Director of the Ifakara Health Institute, Dr Honorati Masanja described Dr. Chaki as a pillar of hope to all who worked with him, noting that the Institute greatly benefited from his presence and leadership. He called on staff to support one another during this difficult time and concluded by praying that Dr. Chaki’s soul rest in eternal peace.

On behalf of the Pan-African Mosquito Control Association (PAMCA), Ifakara scientist Dr. Samson Kiware conveyed condolences from colleagues and collaborators who wished to attend the service but were unable to do so. Speaking also on behalf of partners and collaborators, he emphasized that Dr. Chaki was deeply loved and admired, describing him as a valuable asset to every team and institution he served.

These sentiments were echoed by a representative from the Ministry of Health, Mr. Frank Chacky, who spoke of how fortunate the Ministry was to work with Dr. Chaki over several years. He highlighted Dr. Chaki’s involvement in multiple malaria programmes and his exceptional ability to translate research data into evidence that informed decision-making. Mr. Chacky noted that Dr. Chaki’s impact was felt both within and beyond Tanzania, and that his absence has left a significant gap in the public health community.

The memorial service concluded with remarks from Dr. Chaki’s family, who expressed their sincere appreciation for the outpouring of support, solidarity, and compassion shown during this time of loss.