Meet Our Expert Team
Passionate scientists and innovators dedicated to advancing biotechnology in Africa
Mr. Deogratius Mark
Chief Executive Officer
Deogratius Mark is a visionary leader, scientist, and biotechnology entrepreneur committed to transforming Africa’s molecular research and diagnostic landscape. He is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of DABA Biotech Limited. Mark has authored numerous scientific papers in reputable peer-reviewed journals, contributing valuable insights to the fields of plant pathology, molecular diagnostics, and biotechnology innovation. His research and innovations are rooted in addressing local challenges with global scientific standards. He has developed and optimized several laboratory protocols tailored to the needs of under-resourced labs. These protocols aim to significantly cut operational costs while maintaining accuracy and reliability in molecular testing-making diagnostics and research more accessible and sustainable across Tanzania and similar contexts. Under his leadership, DABA Biotech launched projects for local molecular biology reagents and affordable DNA extraction kits.
Damian Dagbert Kalekayo
Finance manager
Dagbert Damian Kalekayo is a finance professional and business leader with experience in financial planning, analysis, reporting, budgeting, and strategic decision-making. He currently serves as Finance Manager at DABA Biotech Limited. With expertise across multiple sectors, Dagbert focuses on financial discipline, resource management, risk assessment, investment, and sustainable business growth. He is passionate about entrepreneurship, industrial development, and business expansion that create employment and economic value. His professional philosophy is grounded in integrity, accountability, strategic thinking, and sustainable growth.
Tusajigwe O. Mwakalinga
Biochemist
Tusajigwe O. Mwakalinga, M.Sc., is a Biochemist and Molecular Biologist and Head of Biochemistry, Research and Scientific Partnerships at DABA Biotech. She has research experience spanning biochemistry and molecular biology, with a focus on developmental biology, genetics, molecular diagnostics, and disease mechanisms. Her research includes pedigree analysis of hypertension and Master's research investigating calcium signaling in cerebral cavernous malformations in vivo using zebrafish models. She has also contributed to projects involving molecular diagnostics, bioanalytical research, plant epigenetics, and genomic sequencing. She brings a strong research perspective, scientific curiosity, and a commitment to translating laboratory science into meaningful applications. At DABA, she supports research collaborations, scientific capacity building, and biotechnology initiatives addressing local challenges in Tanzania.
Fraziana Gerald Issa
Quality Assurance Officer
Fraziana Gerald Issa is a Quality Assurance Officer at Daba Biotech, responsible for supporting quality control, compliance, documentation, and continuous improvement across laboratory and technical operations. With a background in biotechnology and an interest in genetic engineering, she contributes to maintaining high standards of accuracy, consistency, and reliability in Daba Biotech’s services.
Stephen Massawe
Lab Manager
Stephen Masawe is a Biotechnology and Bioinformatics professional with practical expertise in molecular biology, DNA analysis, laboratory operations, and scientific data management. At DABA Biotech Limited, he serves as Laboratory Manager, overseeing laboratory activities, sample and equipment management, quality control, documentation, procurement, and logistics. He is also experienced in sourcing laboratory equipment, reagents, and consumables and coordinating with suppliers to support efficient laboratory operations.
Hamad Mpame
Lab Analyst and Bioinformatician
Hamadi Abdallah Mpame is a Biotechnologist and Bioinformatician specializing in molecular laboratory analysis, molecular diagnostics, and biological data analysis. At Daba Biotech Limited, he supports molecular testing, pathogen detection, DNA analysis, and bioinformatics research, applying laboratory and computational approaches to deliver reliable biotechnology solutions.
Emeliana Said Juma
Lab Analyst
A skilled laboratory professional with strong expertise in molecular laboratory techniques and protocol optimization. She specializes in improving laboratory procedures, troubleshooting experimental challenges, and optimizing protocols to achieve reliable, consistent, and high-quality results.
Evance M. Tarimo
Lab Analyst
Evance Tarimo is a Molecular Biology and Biotechnology professional with experience spanning laboratory science, bioinformatics, technology, and scientific communication. At Daba Biotech Limited he supports laboratory operations, bioinformatics activities, research projects, and the development and maintenance of digital systems and applications. His interests include molecular diagnostics, genomics, biotechnology, data analysis, and applying technology to solve scientific and local challenges. Evance has practical experience in molecular biology techniques, scientific data analysis, laboratory processes, and digital problem-solving. He is passionate about connecting biology and technology to strengthen research, innovation, and biotechnology capacity in Tanzania.