Key skills and expertise

Bringing over 19 years of experience in public health, the expert is skilled in health systems management, epidemiology, and disease prevention and control. Career highlights include leading national and international malaria strategic planning and program evaluations, significantly reducing malaria burden in Zimbabwe. Previously held roles such as National Professional Officer at WHO involved facilitating cross-border health collaborations and resource mobilization. Responsibilities have included developing health policies and guidelines, enhancing the Ministry of Health's capacity to address both communicable and non-communicable diseases.

Project experience and donor exposure

Worked across diverse projects involving collaboration with international donors like the Global Fund, USAID, ZAPIM, PSI, and Plan International in the health sector. The expert's involvement includes project implementation, strategic planning, and resource mobilization for malaria control and elimination at the national level in Zimbabwe. Additionally, provided technical assistance and capacity building in non-communicable diseases and neglected tropical diseases, enhancing the Ministry of Health and Child Care's ability to address health challenges. The scope of work spans national and regional levels, with significant contributions to cross-border health initiatives between Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Sectors and geographic focus

With a background in the health sector, the expert focuses on public health, disease prevention, and control. Background includes positions at the World Health Organization, managing national malaria programs and contributing to non-communicable and neglected tropical disease strategies. The expert's interdisciplinary expertise encompasses policy development, strategic planning, and resource mobilization. The geographic scope of work is predominantly country-specific to Zimbabwe but includes regional initiatives in Southern Africa, fostering cross-border health collaborations and enhancing sectoral health systems management. Extensive geographic experience in Zimbabwe, The Gambia, Tanzania, and Eritrea has provided a deep understanding of regional health dynamics and cultural considerations, facilitating effective health interventions across different countries.

Languages and education

The expert is fluent in English, a UN official language, and Shona, with basic knowledge of Ndebele. Utilized language skills in diverse multicultural and gender-sensitive organizations, contributing to effective communication and collaboration in international health initiatives. Proficiency in English has been essential for roles in strategic planning, policy development, and cross-border health collaborations. The expert holds a Master in Public Health from the Institute of Tropical Medicine in Antwerp, Belgium, obtained in July 2004. Additionally, earned Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery degrees (MBChB) from the University of Zimbabwe in April 1995. This academic background is firmly rooted in public health and medicine, providing a strong foundation for an extensive career in health systems management and disease prevention.