Acting Director-General of Health Dr. Patrick Amoth has been elected Chair of the World Health Organization (WHO) Executive Board.
He takes over from Dr. Harsh Vardhan, India’s Minister for Health and is expected to serve for a three-year term.
The announcement was made by his predecessor during the 149th session of the board.
The board comprises 34 technically qualified members who agree on the agenda for the World Health Assembly and the resolutions to be considered.
It is mandated with the implementation of decisions and policies of the Health Assembly, advising and facilitating its work.
Amoth was elected as the Deputy President of the WHO Executive Board on May 23, 2020, on a two-year term.
“I am overwhelmed and deeply grateful for your support and kind words on my election as Vice President of WHO Executive Board. I will endeavour to represent Kenya with dignity and honor,” he expressed in 2020.
Amoth is a medical doctor by profession holding a Masters of Medicine Degree (MMED) in Obstetrics and Gynecology from the University of Nairobi.
He also holds a diploma in Health Systems Management from Galilee College, Israel.
He previously headed the Directorate of Public Health in the Ministry where he spearheaded the development of effective delivery of health services across Kenya under the Universal Health Coverage.
Amoth received the Order of Service award in June 2020 from the President
The doctor served as a Chief Medical Specialist and Senior Deputy Director of Medical Services at Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital.
