Dr. Patrick Omwanda Amoth, an esteemed alumnus of the University of Nairobi's Faculty of Health Sciences, has been at the forefront of Kenya's health sector, combining clinical expertise with visionary leadership.

Academic and professional journey

Dr. Amoth earned his Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) degree from the University of Nairobi. He further specialized by obtaining a Master of Medicine (MMed) in Obstetrics and Gynecology from the same institution. To enhance his administrative acumen, he pursued a Diploma in Health Systems Management from Galilee College in Israel.

Leadership and contributions

With over 27 years of experience in the health sector, Dr. Amoth has held various pivotal roles:

• Medical Superintendent: At Kiambu Level 5 Hospital, he revamped maternal and child health services, ensuring no woman died during childbirth due to lack of bloo.
• Director of Public Health: At the Ministry of Health, he spearheaded strategies for effective health service delivery across Kenya's 47 counties and was instrumental in the inception and alignment of Universal Health Coverage.
• Acting Director General for Health: Since 2019, Dr. Amoth has served as the acting Director General for Health, leading technical teams and advising the government on health matters. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he became a trusted face, providing expert guidance to the nation.

International recognition

In June 2021, Dr. Amoth was elected Chair of the World Health Organization (WHO) Executive Board, becoming the first Kenyan to hold this prestigious position. In this role, he has been instrumental in shaping global health policies and representing Kenya on the international stage.

Reflections

Dr. Amoth's journey from a medical student to a global health leader exemplifies the diverse career paths available to health sciences graduates. His dedication to public service and health policy has not only impacted Kenya's health sector but also serves as an inspiration to aspiring health professionals.