- Infectious disease epidemiology, particularly HIV and TB
- Adolescent health
- Impact evaluation and economic evaluation methods, including cost-effectiveness analysis
- Evidence-based policy and programming for vulnerable populations
Biography
Mary Kaakyo is a Research Associate in the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics at the Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH). She holds a Master of Science in Health Services Research and a Bachelor’s degree in Development Economics, both from Makerere University.
She is currently pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) at the University of Antwerp and the Institute of Tropical Medicine (ITM) in Belgium. Her doctoral research focuses on evaluating the impact of Differentiated Service Delivery (DSD) approaches on viral suppression and retention in care among adolescents aged 10–19 years living with HIV in Uganda’s Masaka Region. Using a mixed-methods design that integrates impact evaluation, cost-effectiveness analysis, and qualitative inquiry, her work aims to generate evidence to inform policy and strengthen adolescent HIV care in Uganda and beyond. Mary’s research reflects her commitment to improving health outcomes for vulnerable groups through rigorous scientific inquiry and actionable insights that bridge research and public health practice.