Krystal Mwesiga Birungi
2025-2026 Obama Foundation Africa Leader

Field Entomology Coordinator, Uganda Virus Research Institute
Uganda
Krystal Mwesiga Birungi is the Field Entomology Coordinator at the Uganda Virus Research Institute for the Target Malaria project, where her work centers on the development of genetically modified mosquitoes to mitigate malaria transmission. Malaria is a primary cause of mortality among young children in Uganda. Additionally, Krystal acts as a Global Fund advocate, dedicated to securing resources for the control of malaria, HIV, and tuberculosis. Driven by a strong commitment to health equity, she strives to eradicate malaria and alleviate the cycle of poverty and mortality affecting vulnerable communities.
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