Dr. David Wata, BPharm, MPharm
Senior Pharmacist Specialist – Kenyatta National Hospital
Treasurer – Oncology Pharmacists Society of Kenya (OPSOK)
Quick Facts
- Experience: 20+ years in clinical pharmacy practice
- Education: MPharm in Clinical Pharmacy - University of Nairobi
- Specialization: Pediatric Oncology & Palliative Care
- Research: 6+ publications in peer-reviewed journals
- Academic: Honorary Lecturer - University of Nairobi & Kabarak University
Dedicated to Pediatric Oncology & Pharmaceutical Excellence
Dr. Wata's career spans two decades of specialized pharmaceutical care for pediatric cancer patients, research contributions, and mentorship of future pharmacy leaders in Kenya.
Professional Overview
Dr. David Wata is a highly experienced clinical pharmacist with over two decades of dedicated service at Kenyatta National Hospital, Kenya's premier referral hospital. His career has been marked by specialized expertise in pediatric oncology pharmacy and significant contributions to palliative care programs.
As Treasurer of OPSOK, Dr. Wata brings financial stewardship and strategic planning to the organization, ensuring sustainable growth and impactful initiatives. His dual role as a practitioner and academic positions him uniquely to bridge clinical practice with education and research.
Areas of Expertise
Pediatric Oncology Pharmacy
Specialized pharmaceutical care for children with cancer, addressing unique dosing and supportive care needs
Palliative Care
Medication management for pain and symptom control in advanced cancer patients
Pharmaceutical Production
Supervision of IV medicine preparation and total parenteral nutrition (TPN) for neonatal care
Clinical Research
Design and implementation of research studies with publications in peer-reviewed journals
Leadership at Kenyatta National Hospital
Head of Pharmaceutical Production Unit
CurrentLeads the preparation of specialized IV medications and total parenteral nutrition (TPNs) for critically ill neonates and pediatric patients, ensuring the highest standards of quality and safety.
Pediatric Oncology Specialist
Long-term RoleProvides comprehensive pharmaceutical care to children with cancer, addressing complex medication regimens and managing treatment-related side effects.
Palliative Care Program Contributor
Key RolePlays an integral role in the hospital's palliative care initiatives, optimizing medication therapy for pain and symptom management in patients with advanced cancer.
Research Contributions & Publications
Dr. Wata has established himself as a contributor to the evidence base in oncology pharmacy through his research activities:
Peer-Reviewed Publications
6+ PublicationsAuthored or co-authored more than six research papers in reputable journals, contributing to the advancement of oncology pharmacy practice.
Clinical Research
OngoingConducts operational and clinical research focused on optimizing medication therapy outcomes in cancer patients, particularly in resource-limited settings.
Knowledge Dissemination
National & InternationalPresents research findings at professional conferences, sharing insights and best practices with the broader pharmacy community.
Academic Contributions & Mentorship
Beyond his clinical responsibilities, Dr. Wata is deeply committed to education and professional development:
- Honorary Lecturer: Teaches and mentors undergraduate and postgraduate pharmacy students at both the University of Nairobi and Kabarak University
- Clinical Supervision: Guides students during clinical rotations at Kenyatta National Hospital, providing hands-on training in oncology pharmacy
- Research Mentorship: Supervises student research projects and dissertations, fostering the next generation of pharmacy researchers
- Curriculum Development: Contributes to the evolution of pharmacy education to meet emerging needs in cancer care
- Professional Development: Participates in continuing education programs for practicing pharmacists across Kenya
Role in OPSOK & Professional Community
As Treasurer of the Oncology Pharmacists Society of Kenya, Dr. Wata provides crucial financial leadership:
- Financial Stewardship: Manages the society's resources to support its mission and strategic objectives
- Strategic Planning: Contributes to long-term planning for sustainable growth and impact
- Program Funding: Helps secure resources for educational programs, conferences, and member initiatives
- Collaborative Leadership: Works with other OPSOK leaders to advance the profession of oncology pharmacy in Kenya
- Membership Support: Ensures financial systems support member services and engagement
Excellence in Patient Care, Research, and Education
"Through dedicated patient care, rigorous research, and committed mentorship, we are building a future where every cancer patient in Kenya receives pharmaceutical care of the highest standard."
