The award was presented on July 16, 2026, during the Africa Clean Air Forum held at the CSIR International Convention Centre in Pretoria, South Africa.

MUBAS Associate Professor and project team leader, Dr. Chikumbusko Chiziwa Kaonga, said the recognition follows the successful implementation of a project funded by the University of Chicago's EPIC Air Quality Fund. Through the initiative, the university has installed 19 low-cost air quality monitoring stations across five districts in Malawi, significantly enhancing the country's capacity to monitor air pollution.

Dr. Kaonga said the project has also led to the publication of Malawi's first Air Quality Bulletins in collaboration with the Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services. In addition, a national air quality policy brief is being finalised in partnership with the Malawi Environment Protection Authority (MEPA) to support evidence-based policymaking.

"The positive changes that our project is bringing prompted the University of Chicago EPIC Air Quality Fund to honour us with this award. We were one of only seven groups worldwide to receive it and the only recipient from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) regions," said Dr. Kaonga.

He described the award as a major motivation for the research team to intensify efforts towards promoting clean air and improving environmental health.

"Air quality data is nothing if it does not translate into action," he said.

According to the University of Chicago, the seven award recipients were recognised for achieving national-level impact by expanding air

quality monitoring, making air quality data publicly accessible, and supporting evidence-based policy reforms to tackle air pollution.

Speaking on the impact of the research, Dr. Kaonga said many Malawians are exposed to poor air quality due to environmental degradation, climate change, and harmful human activities. He noted that the research will play a significant role in raising awareness and informing policies aimed at reducing practices that contribute to air pollution, including bush fires, open burning of waste, and the improper disposal of harmful substances and chemicals.

He further explained that improving air quality could help reduce the prevalence of respiratory illnesses and other non-communicable diseases, including certain types of cancer, by promoting healthier environments and encouraging cleaner practices.

The award highlights MUBAS's growing reputation as a centre of excellence in research and innovation. It also underscores the university's commitment to developing practical, science-based solutions that address national and global environmental challenges while contributing to sustainable development and improved public health.