Acting Health Director-General Patrick Amoth elected chairperson of the World Health Organisation (WHO) executive board in Geneva.

The announcement of his appointment was made on Wednesday during the 149th session of the WHO Executive board by the union’s health minister, Dr. Harsh Vardhan.

Amoth will replace Harsh Vardhan who has been holding the position since May 2020.

The executive board followed the principle of geographical rotation among the WHO regions to choose the chair of the executive board from among the delegates of members from the African region.

Amoth is also the Vice President of the Executive Board of the WHO representing the African region.

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He is a consultant obstetrician and gynecologist of great renown who graduated from the University of Nairobi’s Medical School and has a Masters in Obstetrics and Gynecology from the same university.

Dr Amoth has thanked WHO members, especially Member States of the African Region for nominating Kenya through him to serve in the prestigious position.

"On behalf of the Government of the Republic of Kenya, I wish to convey our deep appreciation and gratitude to the entire WHO Membership for the faith and trust they have demonstrated in electing Kenya to serve as Chairperson of the Executive Board.

He added, "I wish to congratulate the outgoing Chair of the Board, Dr Harsh Vadhan, for his unparalleled leadership and steadfast dedication, which we can all attest to."

The Health DG vowed to give top priority to the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic across the globe.

"During my term, I hope that we can purpose as Member States to spare no effort in striving to end to the ongoing pandemic and secure a healthier and sustainable future," Dr Amoth added.