Dr Kimambo begins role as acting WHO Representative to Kenya

Dr Neema Rusibamayila Kimambo met Kenya's Cabinet Secretary for Health on 4 February 2026 to set WHO–Kenya priorities for 2026, and Kenya noted two upcoming global health events in March and April 2026.

Dr Neema Rusibamayila Kimambo has begun duties as the acting WHO Representative to Kenya and held her first official meeting with Cabinet Secretary for Health Aden Duale on 4 February 2026. The meeting set the agenda for 2026 and reaffirmed WHO's commitment to support the Ministry of Health. CS Duale outlined ongoing health sector reforms and priorities for collaboration. Kenya is scheduled to host two global health events in early 2026. Key points: - Dr Kimambo met Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale on 4 February 2026 to set the 2026 agenda and reaffirm WHO support for the Ministry of Health. - CS Duale described ongoing health sector reforms and strategic priorities for collaboration with WHO. - Kenya will host the International Maternal Newborn Health Conference in March 2026 and the World Health Summit Regional Meeting in April 2026. - Dr Kimambo has over 25 years of experience in public health and paediatrics and previously served as WHO Representative to Malawi (2022–2025) and as Medical Officer for Child and Adolescent Health at the WHO Regional Office for Africa (2018–2022). - Her prior roles include acting WHO Representative to Ghana (2019–2021) and senior positions in Tanzania's Ministry of Health. Summary: The meeting reaffirmed WHO's partnership with the Government of Kenya and set priorities for collaboration in 2026. Kenya noted two upcoming international health events in March and April 2026 that were raised during the meeting. Undetermined at this time.