Hi Sokoine! First, before we begin, can you tell us a little bit about yourself and your current role and responsibilities within the META Trial?

Thank you for this opportunity. My name is Sokoine Kivuyo, and I’m the coordinator for the META Trial. In this role, I oversee the operational management of the trial, guiding each phase with a focus on efficiency and adherence to high standards of research integrity.

I bring over 17 years of experience in coordinating internationally-funded clinical trials, particularly in HIV, cryptococcal meningitis, and non-communicable diseases. My responsibilities include:

  • Ensuring compliance with research protocols;
  • Managing cross-functional teams;
  • And, liaising with key stakeholders, from community representatives to policy-makers, to align our work with the needs and aspirations of the Tanzanian community. 

Working on the META Trial lets me contribute directly to research that has great potential for health impact, particularly in preventive healthcare for vulnerable populations.

As you may already know, the META Trial has used the Uhuru Torch as an inspiration for its visual identity and logo, especially given its cultural and societal importance in Tanzania.

We’d love to hear what the Uhuru Torch symbolises to you as a Tanzanian, and how do you think its values (hope, love, respect) resonate within the META project? 

The Uhuru Torch is a powerful and beloved symbol in Tanzania, representing unity, progress, and the enduring spirit of hope and resilience. For me, it embodies our shared commitment to uplifting one another and driving positive change within our communities.

In the META Trial, we see a parallel to these values; our work is about lighting the way forward for people facing health challenges like HIV and pre-diabetes. This research, centred around hope, love, and respect, aims to empower individuals by providing pathways to better health. Much like the Uhuru Torch, META seeks to guide those in need toward improved health and well-being. I am proud to coordinate a trial that draws inspiration from such an iconic symbol, as it reinforces our dedication to meaningful change for our communities.

“For me, it [the Uhuru torch] embodies our shared commitment to uplifting one another and driving positive change within our communities…This research aims to empower individuals by providing pathways to better health.”

It’s interesting that you mentioned “lighting the way forward”, especially given that the META trial is the first-of-its-kind in Africa to test a low-cost intervention like metformin in preventing and delaying progression to diabetes in individuals living with HIV and pre-diabetes, who are on antiretroviral therapy (ART). With a trial of this magnitude, META could impact how other regions with similar characteristics further develop their health and care systems.

We’re curious. What or who  “lit your way forward” so that you are now involved in a project like the META Trial?

My journey has been greatly shaped by mentors and a longstanding commitment to public health. Early in my career, I was deeply moved by the challenges faced by individuals with limited access to healthcare and chronic disease management. The chance to contribute solutions through research has always been a driving force for me. As I progressed in my career, my mentors inspired me to focus on projects that would generate knowledge and address urgent, practical needs in healthcare. 

Joining the META Trial was a natural fit: it aligns with my commitment to advancing preventive health strategies and addressing the unique intersection of HIV and diabetes. Knowing that our work in META can influence health practices across Tanzania, Africa, and beyond is a source of profound motivation and fulfilment.

Building off of your last response a bit and to close the interview, could you share a moment or experience that reinforced your belief in the path META Trial is helping pave for HIV and diabetes care in communities?

I remember one significant experience, which happened during an engagement session. Several participants were sharing their struggles of managing HIV while facing the added risk of pre-diabetes. The courage and openness they showed were inspiring, and their words reinforced how deeply this trial resonates with their hopes for better health.

This moment really highlighted the impact of our work beyond clinical data–we are offering hope and trust to individuals in their journey toward a healthier life. It strengthened my belief in META’s mission, which includes not only advancing scientific understanding but also making a tangible difference in people’s lives. 

Moments like this remind me why we must continue to push forward with firm dedication.