New WAHO Director General Appointed to Boost Health Cooperation

The West African Health Organisation (WAHO) has appointed Professor Vincent Palokinam Pitché as its new Director General, succeeding Dr. Melchior Aïssi, who completed his tenure. This appointment comes at a crucial time as West African nations work to strengthen their health systems amidst recent epidemics and emerging health threats.

Professor Pitché, a renowned Togolese physician and public health expert, has extensive experience in clinical medicine and public health, previously serving as the Permanent Secretary of Togo’s National Council for the Fight Against HIV/AIDS and Sexually Transmitted Infections. His mandate includes enhancing health cooperation among ECOWAS member states, improving disease outbreak preparedness, and promoting equitable healthcare access.

Additionally, he will focus on local production of medicines and vaccines, health security, and universal health coverage. His leadership is expected to translate regional health commitments into tangible improvements in healthcare delivery, fostering collaboration among member states to address public health challenges effectively.