About us

WHO WE ARE

A National Society for Anatomical Sciences

The Society of Human Anatomy Kenya (SHAK) is a professional and scientific society created to give Kenya’s anatomy community a shared national platform.

SHAK connects professionals, learners and institutions involved in the teaching, study, research and application of human anatomy. Through this community, the Society supports stronger education, responsible research, ethical practice, professional exchange and a clearer collective voice for the discipline.

Its work recognises that anatomical science is foundational to medical education, clinical practice, surgical innovation, public health and scientific discovery.

WHO WE ARE

How SHAK Came Together

SHAK’s story begins with a shared recognition: Kenya’s anatomy community needed a unified platform through which to organise, collaborate and advance the discipline.

01 — A shared need

Anatomists, educators, researchers and practitioners recognised the value of a stronger national professional community.

02 — A society takes shape

Founding members came together around a common purpose: advancing anatomy education, research, collaboration and ethical practice in Kenya.

03 — A governance framework

A constitution, bylaws, membership structure and committees were developed to guide the Society’s work and accountability.

04 — The next chapter

SHAK is building the platform through which members can connect, publish, convene and contribute to the future of anatomical sciences.

25+ Years Experience

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governance

Meet the SHAK Leadership

SHAK’s leadership provides strategic direction, supports effective governance and advances the Society’s commitment to anatomy education, research, ethical practice and professional collaboration in Kenya.

Dr. James Mwangi Kanyoni

Dr. James Mwangi Kanyoni

chairperson

A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT/CHAIRPERSON

It is my distinct honor and privilege to serve as the President and Chairperson of the Society of Human Anatomists Kenya (SHAK). I extend a warm and heartfelt welcome to all our members, partners, and visitors to our digital platform.

SHAK stands as the premier professional body dedicated to the advancement of human anatomical sciences in Kenya. Our society serves as a unifying forum for anatomists, educators, researchers, and students who share a common passion for understanding the structural foundation of life and health — a discipline that remains the cornerstone of medical and health sciences education.

Under my leadership, SHAK is committed to championing excellence in anatomical teaching, research, and professional practice across all Kenyan institutions. We strive to foster meaningful collaboration between academia and clinical practice, ensuring that our contributions directly enhance healthcare delivery, medical training, and scientific discovery in our nation.

Our strategic priorities include:

  1. Advancing Anatomical Education: Promoting modern, innovative, and technology-driven teaching methodologies that prepare competent and compassionate health professionals.
  2. Stimulating Research and Innovation: Encouraging high-impact research in gross anatomy, histology, embryology, neuroanatomy, and related disciplines, while facilitating dissemination of findings through conferences, workshops, and publications.
  3. Professional Development and Mentorship: Creating robust opportunities for capacity building, continuous learning, networking, and career growth for anatomists at all career stages.
  4. Strengthening Partnerships and Advocacy: Building strong local, regional, and international networks with anatomical societies, universities, and health institutions to elevate Kenya’s standing in the global anatomical community and advocate for the profession.

I invite every member to actively engage with SHAK’s programs and initiatives. Together, we shall nurture a vibrant community of anatomical scientists who are not only educators and researchers but also catalysts for transformative change in Kenya’s health sector and beyond.

Let us unite in our shared vision to make SHAK a beacon of excellence in anatomical sciences, contributing meaningfully to the health, well-being, and scientific progress of our society.

In unity and service,

Dr. James Mwangi Kanyoni (PhD)
President/Chairperson, Society of Human Anatomists Kenya (SHAK)
Department of Human Anatomy, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT)

Professor. Domnic Marera (PhD)

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

A MESSAGE FROM THE CEO/SECRETARY

On behalf of the Anatomical Society of Human Anatomy of Kenya, I extend my warm greetings to all our members, partners, and colleagues in the medical and academic community. 

Our Society remains committed to advancing anatomical research, fostering excellence in teaching, and strengthening collaboration across institutions in Kenya and beyond. Together, we aim to build a strong foundation for evidence-based medical education that reflects both global standards and regional relevance.

Our vision is to generate and exchange knowledge on molecular, genetic, gross and developmental anatomy, using modern; state of the art equipment and technological advances.  

We invite continued engagement, dialogue, and innovation as we work to shape the future of anatomy in Kenya for the benefit of students, practitioners, and the wider society.

Professor. Domnic Marera (PhD)
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)/ Secretary, Society of Human Anatomists Kenya (SHAK)
Department of Human Anatomy, Maseno University

Dr. Ann Wairimu Mwangi

tReasurer

A MESSAGE FROM THE TREASURER

It is my honor to serve as the Treasurer of the Society of Human Anatomists Kenya (SHAK). I warmly welcome all members, colleagues, and visitors to our society’s platform.

As a Lecturer in Human Anatomy, I have dedicated my career to advancing anatomical sciences through teaching and research, with a special focus on developmental anatomy and teratology; investigating how prenatal exposure to pharmacological agents affects fetal brain development.

  • Prudent financial stewardship and accountability
  • Transparent financial reporting to the membership
  • Strategic budget planning aligned with our society’s priorities
  • Resource mobilization to support educational and research initiatives

Sound financial management is the foundation upon which we can build meaningful programs and lasting impact. I am dedicated to working with the executive committee and all members to harness our resources effectively for the advancement of anatomical sciences in Kenya.
In service to the profession,

 Dr. Ann Wairimu Mwangi
Treasurer, Society of Human Anatomists Kenya (SHAK)

KEY ACCOMPLISHMENTS

The Foundation SHAK Has Put in Place

The documents supplied confirm important organisational foundations. Public-facing milestones such as conferences, partnerships, publications, awards and advocacy initiatives can be showcased here as the Society continues to document and verify its achievements.

01 - A National Professional Framework

Established a clear national platform dedicated to advancing anatomy education, scientific research, ethical practice, professional collaboration and advocacy across Kenya.

02 - A Member-Led Governance Structure

Created a transparent governance system comprising the General Assembly, Executive Committee and specialist committees to provide leadership, accountability and strategic direction.

03 - An Inclusive Membership Model

Developed a membership structure that welcomes professionals, students, institutions, associates and distinguished contributors, strengthening collaboration across the anatomy community.

04 - A Platform for Scientific Exchange

Built the foundation for conferences, publications, collaborative research, professional development, knowledge sharing and meaningful engagement among anatomy professionals.