Advancing Research.
Improving Lives.
Macha Research Trust is a community-based research institute working to generate evidence that improves health outcomes in Zambia and beyond.
Research rooted in the community
Macha Research Trust (MRT) is a community-based research institute situated in Macha in Choma District, Southern Province of Zambia. We conduct health research that responds to the needs of communities while contributing to national, regional and global health priorities.
Our work brings together scientific research, clinical programmes, communities and research partners to develop evidence that can improve prevention, diagnosis, treatment and health systems.
Work with us →From mission work to a research institution
Macha Research Trust (MRT) is a community-based research institute situated in the area of Macha in Choma District of the Southern Province of Zambia.
In the early 1900s, two women were given land by the colonial government of what was then Northern Rhodesia to begin mission work for the Brethren in Christ Church of North America. The mission became known as Macha Mission, taking its name from the local chief.
In addition to spiritual ministry, the mission work included education and medical aid to the local population. In 1957, Macha Mission Hospital was opened and continues to be well known throughout Zambia for providing good medical care.
Malaria research began at the hospital in 1988. In 2005, a separate entity known as the Malaria Institute at Macha (MIAM) was officially opened. The name was later changed to Macha Research Trust and established as an independent not-for-profit research institute registered as a Zambian legal entity.
Since its inception, MRT has been an example of a home-grown institute working together with the community and hospital programme. Its research findings, particularly early work on better drugs for malaria, have contributed to improvements in health across Zambia and the region.
Decades of research and community impact
Our history is closely connected to the development of health services and research in Macha.
Macha Mission
Mission work began in the Macha area, including education and medical support for the local community.
Macha Mission Hospital
Macha Mission Hospital opened and became an important provider of healthcare services in the region.
Malaria Research Begins
Malaria research began at Macha Mission Hospital, establishing the foundation for decades of scientific work.
Malaria Institute at Macha
The Malaria Institute at Macha was officially opened as a dedicated research entity.
Macha Research Trust
MRT continues to conduct multidisciplinary research addressing major health challenges in Zambia and the region.
A trusted environment for health research
Today, Macha Research Trust provides an environment where researchers, clinicians, laboratory scientists, data specialists and communities work together to address important health challenges.
Our research portfolio continues to evolve while maintaining a strong focus on diseases and health priorities that affect communities in Zambia and across sub-Saharan Africa.
We combine scientific expertise with local knowledge and partnerships to ensure that research findings can contribute to practical health improvements.
Generating evidence for better health
To conduct high-quality research that addresses important health challenges and contributes to improved health outcomes for communities in Zambia and beyond.
Research that makes a difference
To be a leading African research institution known for scientific excellence, meaningful community engagement and research that contributes to better health.
Research across health priorities
Our multidisciplinary teams conduct research across a range of health and scientific areas.
Malaria Research
Research focused on malaria prevention, diagnosis, treatment and control.
HIV Research
Research supporting improved HIV prevention, diagnosis and treatment outcomes.
Clinical Research
Clinical studies designed to generate evidence for better healthcare interventions.
Laboratory Research
Laboratory science supporting disease surveillance, diagnostics and research programmes.
Data & Epidemiology
Data-driven research and analysis to understand disease patterns and health outcomes.
Community Research
Research developed with communities to ensure local needs remain central to our work.
Science connected to people
We believe research has the greatest value when scientific excellence is combined with meaningful collaboration and community engagement.
Maintaining high standards across research design, implementation and analysis.
Working with communities as partners throughout the research process.
Building partnerships with researchers, institutions and health programmes.
Supporting the use of evidence to inform health practice and policy.
Research with real-world relevance
Our work aims to contribute to measurable improvements in health and strengthen the evidence base for decision-making.
Better Evidence
Generating reliable evidence to support health decisions.
Better Health
Supporting interventions that can improve health outcomes.
Local Capacity
Strengthening research and scientific capacity in Zambia.
Global Contribution
Contributing African evidence to global health research.
Working together to improve health
MRT works with national and international partners across research, healthcare, academia and public health.
Explore collaboration →Responsible and ethical research
We are committed to conducting research responsibly and in accordance with applicable ethical, scientific and regulatory standards.
Partner with us in advancing health research.
We welcome opportunities to collaborate with researchers, institutions, health programmes and communities.
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