By Ernest Nutsugah
Accra, Oct. 3, GNA – Dr. Bernard Okoe Boye, Minister of Health, has been appointed as the “Alternate Board Member” of the Gavi Alliance Board, representing the Anglophone Africa constituency.
According to a statement by the Gavi Alliance Board shared with the Ghana News Agency, Dr. Okoe Boye would serve in that role until December 31, 2026.
The statement noted that Dr. Okoe Boye’s appointment followed a letter dated September 11, 2024, which proposed his nomination.
It indicated that the nomination was to fill the seat currently held by the immediate past health minister, Kwaku Agyeman-Manu, for the remainder of the term.
The Anglophone Africa constituency was given until 18:00 CET on Friday, September 20, 2024, to raise any objections to the nomination.
The statement said Dr. Okoe Boye would bring “a wealth of experience and expertise” to the Gavi Alliance Board.
“As Ghana’s Minister for Health in Ghana, he has been instrumental in leading health initiatives and reforms aimed at improving the healthcare system in the country.
“His appointment is expected to strengthen the representation of Anglophone Africa within the Gavi Alliance, a global health partnership committed to increasing access to immunization in poor countries,” it noted.
The statement said Dr. Okoe Boye’s participation on the board would provide valuable insights and perspectives from the Anglophone Africa region and ensure that “the unique health challenges and opportunities within this constituency are adequately addressed.”
It said his appointment reflected Ghana’s “continued commitment to playing an active role in global health governance.”
The statement highlighted Dr. Okoe Boye key role in Ghana’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“He played a critical role in the nationwide vaccination campaign, which significantly increased the vaccination rate and helped control the spread of the virus.
“His efforts in promoting public health education and preventive care have also been widely recognized, culminating in the publication of book titled; “Fellow Ghanaians, Telling Ghana’s Covid-19 Story, A journey of fear, facts, faith and fortune,” the statement added.
The statement said Dr Okoe Boye’s contribution on the Board was expected to “further the organisation’s mission, especially in the context of the ongoing efforts to enhance immunisation coverage and health system resilience in Anglophone Africa.”
The Gavi Alliance Board plays a vital role in shaping the organization’s strategic direction and policies.
Through its diverse representation, the Board aims to “save lives and protect people’s health by increasing equitable access to vaccines in lower-income countries.
“His efforts in promoting public health education and preventive care have also been widely recognized, culminating in the publication of book titled; “Fellow Ghanaians, Telling Ghana’s Covid-19 Story, A journey of fear, facts, faith and fortune,” the statement added.
Dr Okoe Boye’s contribution on the Board is expected to “further the organisation’s mission, especially in the context of the ongoing efforts to enhance immunisation coverage and health system resilience in Anglophone Africa.”
GNA