Stella Muthoni Gachoki

  • Country of Origin: Kenya
  • Home University: Dedan Kimathi university of technology
  • Host University & Country: University of Twente - Netherlands
  • PhD Title: Modelling the spatial and temporal distribution of tsetse flies for targeted control
  • Year of Completion: 2024
Stella Muthoni Gachoki

PhD Overview

I developed satellite-based frameworks to predict tsetse fly habitat suitability and density in Kenya. Tsetse flies are the sole biological vectors of human and animal trypanosomiasis, a neglected tropical disease of Subsahara. Developed models also transferred successfully to data limited areas in Kenya & Rwanda. The FAO/COMBAT programme later adopted the framework for operational tsetse control across sub-Saharan Africa.

Sustainability Goals

  • Climate Action
  • Life on Land
  • Zero Hunger

About Me

I am a spatial ecological modeller who uses satellite data and machine learning to show where risks to health and food security are emerging. During my PhD I built tsetse flu habitats and density models that continue to be adopted through FAO for targeted control of tsetse across Africa. Now as part of EU-Horizon funded MOSAIC project? I study how pollinators support smallholder systems in Amboseli Kenya and my goal is to connect Environmental change to One Health outcomes for the communities most affected.