Dr Akili Kalinga is a senior public health Research Officer employed Tanzanian National Institute for Medical Research (NIMR) for 24 years now. He trained at various institutions as public health parasitologist and Entomologist. Akili who is a holder of PhD degree in Medical Sciences has vast experience in epidemiology research and control of Neglected Tropical diseases (NTDs) particularly Lymphatic Filariasis and Onchocerciasis. He has also research experiences in malaria, digital health and quality diagnostics. He has published over 40 scientific papers in peer reviewed journals, 5 policy briefs and prepared & presented a number of technical reports. Akili is a charismatic leader in his undertakings; previously has held a number of positions and currently is heading public health and promotion department at NIMR.

Dr Kalinga is also the Tanzanian principal investigator of TAKeOFF (Tackling Obstacles to Fight Filarial infections) consortium and other stand-alone research projects aimed at establishing seroprevalence threshold for stopping mass drug administration for Onchocerciasis.  He is a member of various expert committees including Tanzanian Onchocerciasis elimination expert Advisory committee, technical working groups for Lymphatic Filariasis and Onchocerciasis elimination efforts in Tanzania and member of WHO entomological Group, to mention just few. Due to his experiences in NTDs, he has been working closely and consulted by Tanzanian NTD Control Programme and other international partners in the implementation of research and/or intervention projects related to control / elimination of NTDs globally.