Access Challenge Names New CEO

The Access Challenge, a renowned organization dedicated to tackling global health disparities, has announced a significant leadership shift.

The founder and CEO, Kate Campana, has stepped down, and Asad Lilani has been appointed as her successor.

This move marks a new chapter for The Access Challenge, placing an African leader at the helm to champion the organization’s mission.

Effective June 21, 2024, a revamped leadership structure was implemented.

Campana transitioned to the role of co-chair of the board alongside Ambassador Togolani Mavura.

Ambassador Mavura brings a wealth of experience to the table, drawing from his current position as Tanzania’s Ambassador to South Korea and his extensive background in international diplomacy.

Lilani Poised to Lead The Access Challenge’s Future

Asad Lilani’s appointment as the Access Challenge new CEO signifies a strategic decision to elevate African leadership in global health.

Lilani is a seasoned advocate with a proven track record of success in the field.

Throughout his tenure with Access Challenge, he spearheaded critical initiatives, including advancing Universal Health Coverage agendas at both the African Union and UN levels.

He was also instrumental in leading the organization’s impactful COVID-19 response, which delivered vaccinations to over 75 million people across Africa through the “One by One” campaign, a collaborative effort with the Africa CDC and WHO.

Lilani’s experience extends beyond this singular achievement.

He has spearheaded impactful campaigns across seven African countries, tackling critical health issues like Universal Health Coverage, COVID-19, polio, cholera, HIV, and pandemic preparedness.

Elevating African Voices in Global Health

The Access Challenge new CEO appointment reflects a deliberate move to center African voices within global health decision-making.

Campana, in her departing remarks as CEO, emphasized the importance of this shift. “There is no substitute for African voices and leadership in shaping global health priorities,” she stated.

This aligns perfectly with the Access Challenge’s mission and mirrors the approach of leading global health organizations like ONE, USAID, and the White Ribbon Alliance, all of which prioritize investment in local leadership and solutions.

Empowering Youth for a Sustainable Future

The Access Challenge also recognizes the critical role of youth leadership.

Campana highlighted the importance of empowering this demographic, noting that nearly 75% of Africa’s population falls under the age of 35.

She underscored that “empowering this demographic is not just pertinent but essential for sustainable progress.”

A Transformative Phase for The Access Challenge

Expressing her gratitude to The Access Challenge’s supporters and collaborators, Campana acknowledged that this leadership change marks a transformative phase for the organization.

She emphasized the need for global health leadership that genuinely reflects the perspectives and experiences of those it aims to serve.

Ambassador Mavura, the new co-chair, echoed this sentiment.

Having long admired the Access Challenge’s mission and ambition, he expressed his enthusiasm to contribute to their agenda moving forward.

Ensuring a Smooth Transition and Continued Success

As co-chairs, Campana and Ambassador Mavura will provide strategic guidance and ensure a smooth transition for the Access Challenge new CEO.

Their combined expertise will be instrumental in upholding the organization’s mission and steering it towards a future brimming with promise for Africa and global health.

The Access Challenge new CEO appointment signifies a new era for the organization, one where African leadership takes center stage in the fight for a healthier world.

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