The African Constituency Bureau (ACB) has recently hosted an inaugural and transformative two-day meeting for its newly appointed board members, pivotal in renewing its mission to address Africa’s health needs robustly. This historic induction session, led by ACB Executive Director Mrs. Susan Mochache, signifies a strategic effort to equip the incoming board members with an in-depth understanding of their significant roles and mandates. Held with key partners and stakeholders, the session underscores the Bureau’s commitment to enhancing its governance and effectiveness.
Dr. Jean Jacques Mbungani, outgoing Board member for Western Central Africa (WCA), highlighted the multifaceted objectives of this initiative. The induction aimed not only to orient the new members on the governance structures of the Global Fund but also to facilitate crucial discussions on investments in HIV, TB, malaria, and health systems aligned with Africa’s priorities. Furthermore, the session provided an essential platform to review the evolving global health landscape and its implications for Africa’s strategic position in global health forums.
Welcome New Board Members from WCA and ESA Regions
The ACB is delighted to announce the appointment of distinguished new board members from the WCA and Eastern Southern Africa (ESA) regions to the Global Fund Board. These leaders are not just holding positions but are the pillars of change and progress in the global health landscape, ensuring that African voices are heard and prioritized.
Meet Our New Board Members:
Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, WCA Board member: A venerable public health leader, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, is Nigeria’s Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare. With an illustrious career spanning national and global arenas, including roles as a professor at Harvard University and CEO of Gavi, he has been pivotal in addressing health crises such as COVID-19. His efforts in polio eradication and primary healthcare have garnered national and international acclaim. Prof. Pate’s extensive educational background, encompassing medicine, public health, and health sector renewal, underpins his significant contributions to public health in Nigeria.
Dr. Pierre Somse, WCA Alternate Board member: Dr. Pierre Somse, a public health specialist, holds a Doctorate in Medicine and a Master’s in Public Health. His tenure at UNAIDS and his role as Minister of Public Health and Population in the Central African Republic have been marked by notable initiatives, including the support of inclusive health programs. Dr. Somse’s focus remains on optimizing the impact of Global Fund programs and fostering collaborations with key health donors.
Dr. Joseph Phaahla, ESA Board member: Dr. Joseph Phaahla, with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, has had a distinguished career in medical practice and public service. As South Africa’s Minister of Health and a longstanding Member of Parliament, he brings a wealth of experience and a steadfast commitment to advancing healthcare and governance in South Africa.
Dr. John Jingu, ESA Alternate Board member: Dr. John A.K. Jingu, Permanent Secretary at Tanzania’s Ministry of Health, holds a robust Political Science and Public Administration background. With significant contributions to public service reforms and governance, and as an Adjunct Lecturer at the University of Limerick, his academic and professional journey underscores his dedication to strategic health leadership.
Objectives and Expectations for the New Board Members:
- Strengthen Representation: Enhance African voices in the Global Fund’s decision-making processes, ensuring regional challenges and perspectives are thoroughly addressed.
- Advocate for Enhanced Resources: Push for increased funding to combat AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria, particularly in underserved and high-burden regions.
- Share Expertise and Insights: Leverage their extensive regional expertise to influence health policies and strategic directions, leading to improved health outcomes across Africa.
- Raise the African Voice: Elevate Africa’s role in global health discussions, shaping effective strategies to tackle health disparities.
“Including esteemed members from the WCA and ESA regions into the Global Fund’s board is a testament to these regions’ significant roles in the global health landscape. They come with a lot of experience at global, regional, and national levels, and we are eager to take advantage of and benefit from their influence,” stated Susan Mochache, Executive Director at the ACB. “Africa bears the highest burden of Malaria, Tuberculosis, and HIV, with almost 72% of the Global Fund investments; we need to change the narrative and posture,” she concluded.
Armelle Nyobe
