Uganda bids farewell to WHO representative

The health community and the nation at large has bid farewell to Dr. Yonas Tegegn, who has served as the World Health Organization (WHO) Country Representative in Uganda for the past six and a half years.

Dr. Yonas, who arrived in the country in 2018, has been widely recognized for his invaluable contributions to Uganda’s health sector.

At his official send off dinner by the ministry of health top management, it was an atmosphere of both celebration and reflection as the health community gathered to honor Dr. Yonas Tegegn’s remarkable contributions since his arrival in 2018.

Known for his knowledgeable leadership, Dr. Yonas has significantly influenced the country's health sector.

Among his many achievements, Dr. Yonas spearheaded the nationwide measles-rubella vaccination campaign, which reached over 130,000 people, providing protection against the disease for the country’s population.

Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, Uganda's Minister for Health, praised Dr. Yonas's leadership and impact.

"Dr. Yonas's dedication and commitment have greatly enhanced our healthcare system. His work in spearheading vaccination campaigns and improving emergency response capabilities has been instrumental," she stated.

According to health officials, Dr. Yonas's efforts have been key in enhancing the country’s emergency response capabilities.

His leadership during health crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the Ebola outbreak in Mubende, was particularly noted.

Dr. Aceng highlighted that "Dr. Yonas's ability to mobilize resources and forge partnerships has been a key factor in improving the country’s health outcomes."

Dr. Yonas leaves behind a legacy of strengthened health systems and collaborative partnerships. His work has laid a solid foundation for the next phase of health initiatives in Uganda.

In his farewell remarks, Dr. Yonas expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve and collaborate with Uganda's health community.

"It has been an honor to work alongside such dedicated professionals and to contribute to the health and well-being of the people of Uganda," Dr. Yonas said.

As Dr. Yonas departs, there is a sense of uncertainty about who will succeed him and how they will continue the momentum of progress.

Dr. Aceng noted, "The new representative will have big shoes to fill, but we are confident that with continued collaboration, we can build on Dr. Yonas's achievements and address the ongoing health challenges."

Dr. Yonas's farewell marks the end his active chapter, now heading for retirement.

He has over 30 years of experience in general medicine, disaster management, project development, donor relations at different technical and managerial levels.

His international experience includes working with Africa Humanitarian Action (AHA) in Rwanda from 1994-1995, WHO Geneva from 1999-2005, WHO South East Asia Regional office from 2005-2009, WHO India from 2009-2011, as WHO Representative to D.P.R Korea from 2011-2013, and as WHO Representative to Thailand from 2013-2015.

Before his reassignment to Uganda, he served as Planning Officer at the WHO Regional Office for South-East Asia, in New Delhi, India from 2016-2018. Dr. Yonas Tegegn Woldemariam holds a Doctorate degree in Medicine.