Tanzanite Haematology/Oncology Pharmacy Elites

Zimbwe Kauke Bakari is a distinguished clinical pharmacist whose expertise spans Haematology, Oncology, Bone Marrow Transplantation (BMT), and Infectious Diseases. He currently holds the position of Clinical Trials Control and Pharmacovigilance Officer at the Tanzania Medicines and Medical Devices Authority (TMDA). His remarkable career includes a previous role as the Chief Clinical Pharmacist and Assistant Director of the Pharmacy and Compounding Section at Benjamin Mkapa Hospital in Dodoma, Tanzania. During his time there, he made considerable advancements in clinical pharmacy, successfully initiating specialised oncology pharmacy services in 2020 and launching a Bone Marrow Transplant program in 2022.

Zimbwe’s clinical pharmacy background involves significant experience at the Ocean Road Cancer Institute (ORCI) as an oncology clinical pharmacist. Alongside this, he served as an Assistant Lecturer at three esteemed universities in Tanzania, where he imparts knowledge in pharmacology and clinical pharmacy to future pharmacists. He holds a Master’s degree in Hospital and Clinical Pharmacy and a Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy, positioning him as a well-qualified professional in his field.

As a recipient of the Fleming Funds Fellowship Scheme, Zimbwe addresses the pressing issue of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR). His advanced training from the St. Jude Global Academy’s Program on Global Infectious Diseases and Infection Control highlights his commitment to enhancing public health standards. In 2024, he embarked on a PhD fellowship focused on Antimicrobial Stewardship Programs in Tanzanian Paediatric Oncology Units, collaborating with the University of Antwerp in Belgium. His research is aimed at improving antibiotic use in pediatric cancer patients, thereby refining their treatment protocols and outcomes significantly.

In addition to his clinical efforts, Zimbwe plays a critical role in reviewing research protocols through Institutional Review Boards (IRBs) at various institutions, including Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS) and the National Institute of Medical Research (NIMR). His contributions as an international peer reviewer span over seven journals, including notable publications such as BMC and BMJ. His work includes significant peer-reviewed publications and the development of vital protocols and guidelines, particularly with initiatives like the International Vaccine Institute’s "RADAAR Project: Advocacy to Drive AMR Policy: A Country Guide" published in 2023.

Zimbwe’s leadership extends to formulary development for both Benjamin Mkapa Hospital and Mirembe National Mental Health Hospital, signaling his unwavering dedication to quality healthcare delivery. His involvement in the sixth edition of the standard treatment guidelines, the Tanzania National Formulary templates, and the essential medicine policies illustrates his commitment to enhancing healthcare practices in Tanzania.

Internationally, Zimbwe actively contributes to the WHO Technical Advisory Group for AWaRe Antibiotics Categorisation and collaborates with the Commonwealth Pharmacists Association (CPA) AMR Curriculum Working Group. His dedication to pediatric oncology shines through his active participation with the International Society of Pediatric Oncology (SIOP), where he serves as Co-Chair of the SIOP Africa Oncology Pharmacy Working Group. His engagement extends to being the liaison for the European Society of Oncology Pharmacy Practitioners, highlighting his collaborative spirit in advancing pharmacy practices across borders.

Recognised for his contributions to paediatric oncology in Africa, Zimbwe received the Outstanding Leader accolade from the Young SIOP Network Leadership Assembly during the SIOP Global Congress in Honolulu, Hawaii, in 2024. He was further awarded the prestigious Pediatric Oncology Rising Star Award from the SIOP Africa Branch in Lagos, Nigeria, in 2026, which underscores his impact in mentoring oncology practitioners and strengthening pediatric pharmacy practices.

As the founder and lead mentor of The Tanzanite Haematology/Oncology Pharmacy Elites (THOPE), Zimbwe has guided over 200 professionals in oncology pharmacy and antimicrobial stewardship. His passion for advancing clinical pharmacy services goes hand-in-hand with his commitment to promoting health equity and universal health coverage, continually striving to enhance pediatric oncology in Africa through innovative education and specialised care.

Mentors supporting basic and advanced programmes in antimicrobial stewardship and clinical pharmacy practices.

Clinical ICU Pharmacist | Commonwealth Pharmacists Association (CPA) Certified Mentor | Antimicrobial Stewardship (AMR) Advocate | Critical Care, Oncology & Internal Medicine| Superintendent Pharmacist – Hankil Medical Services Polyclinic.