Wellcome grant supports Malawi-Liverpool global health programme

The Malawi-Liverpool-Welcomed (MLW) Research Programme has secured a seven-year core grant from Wellcome, underpinning its mission to deliver world-class health research and train the next generation of African scientists.

A flagship partnership for over 30 years between the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, the University of Liverpool, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences in Malawi, and Wellcome, MLW has led high-impact studies on malaria, HIV, tuberculosis, pneumonia, maternal and child health, and vaccine policy - shaping health strategies across Africa and beyond.

The new funding will expand Malawi-led, internationally connected research across infectious diseases, maternal, neonatal, and child health, health systems, social determinants, and climate-related health challenges. It will also strengthen training programmes, ensuring emerging researchers gain the skills to drive future breakthroughs.

Professor Henry Mwandumba, MLW Programme Director, said: “This grant is a vote of confidence in our teams and in Malawi’s role at the forefront of global health research. It allows us to scale high-impact studies, accelerate clinical trials, and invest in innovation while strengthening equitable partnerships that translate research into better health outcomes.”

Professor Bertie Squire, Pro-Vice Chancellor for Research Partnerships at LSTM, added: “For three decades, MLW has shown how equitable, collaborative research can save lives. This continued support ensures we can train the next generation of scientists and deliver research that makes a tangible difference.”

Jimmy Volmink, Executive Director of Equity at Wellcome, said: “MLW has consistently advanced global health and nurtured new research talent. We are delighted to continue our partnership, helping the programme address urgent health challenges across the region.”

The 2025–2032 grant will strengthen MLW’s infrastructure, culture, and public engagement, expanding its impact as a centre of excellence in interdisciplinary health research and training.

More information online