WHO Names Dr Neema Kimambo as Acting Representative to Kenya
The World Health Organization (WHO) has appointed Dr. Neema Rusibamayila Kimambo as its Acting Representative to Kenya, a move expected to strengthen collaboration between the UN health agency and the Kenyan government.
Dr. Kimambo officially began her assignment with a courtesy visit to Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale on February 4, where discussions centred on WHO’s priorities for Kenya in 2026. The talks highlighted key focus areas including the expansion of universal health coverage, improvements in disease surveillance, and efforts to build a more resilient health system.
Her appointment comes at a sensitive moment in regional relations, following tensions between Kenya and Tanzania linked to the recent general elections, as well as at a time when Kenya is fast-tracking health sector reforms while facing new and evolving public health concerns.
A seasoned public health professional, Dr. Kimambo previously served as an advisor to former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete, where she played a role in shaping national health policy, advancing international health cooperation, and coordinating donor-supported health programmes.
During her initial engagement with Kenyan officials, Dr. Kimambo underscored the importance of the long-standing relationship between WHO and Kenya, noting that the partnership remains central to improving population health and reinforcing national health security.
With more than 25 years of experience, Dr. Kimambo brings extensive expertise in public health leadership, health systems strengthening, and policy execution across the African continent.
Before assuming her current role, she served as WHO Country Representative to Malawi from 2022 to 2025, overseeing major health system reforms and public health initiatives. She has also worked at the WHO Regional Office for Africa as a Medical Officer specialising in child and adolescent health, where she provided technical guidance on maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent health programmes across multiple countries.
Between 2019 and 2021, Dr. Kimambo held the position of Acting WHO Representative to Ghana, further deepening her experience in regional health diplomacy and programme leadership.
Earlier in her career, she occupied senior positions within Tanzania’s Ministry of Health, including Director of Preventive Services, where she spearheaded national preventive and promotive health strategies. As a presidential advisor, she also represented Tanzania in global accountability frameworks focused on women’s and children’s health.
Dr. Kimambo holds medical and public health qualifications from the University of Dar es Salaam and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. She has committed to working closely with Kenya’s Ministry of Health to advance universal health coverage and enhance healthcare delivery across the country.