The World Health Organisation (WHO) has appointed seasoned public health expert Dr Neema Rusibamayila Kimambo as its Acting Representative to Kenya, signalling renewed engagement between the UN health agency and the Kenyan government at a critical moment for the country’s health sector.
Dr Kimambo formally began her role with a courtesy visit to Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale on Wednesday, where discussions centred on WHO’s priorities for Kenya in 2026.
Key areas highlighted included advancing universal health coverage, strengthening disease surveillance and building a more resilient health system.
Her appointment comes as Kenya accelerates health sector reforms while responding to emerging public health challenges, against the backdrop of recent diplomatic tensions between Kenya and Tanzania following the latest general elections.
During the meeting, Dr Kimambo underscored the importance of the long-standing relationship between WHO and Kenya, describing it as central to improving health outcomes and protecting national health security.
“This partnership remains pivotal to advancing Kenya’s health agenda and safeguarding the health of the people of Kenya,” she said.
Dr Kimambo brings more than 25 years of experience in public health leadership, policy development and health systems strengthening across Africa.
Before her Kenya posting, she served as WHO Representative to Malawi from 2022 to 2025, where she oversaw major health system reforms and public health programmes.
She has also worked at the WHO Regional Office for Africa as a Medical Officer for Child and Adolescent Health, providing technical leadership on maternal, newborn, child and adolescent health initiatives across member states.
