Amref Health Africa has launched a new office in Switzerland to strengthen African representation in global health discussions and expand partnerships supporting healthcare across the continent.
The announcement was made as global leaders gathered in Geneva for the 79th World Health Assembly, where governments, health organisations and development partners are addressing some of the world’s most pressing healthcare challenges.
The new Amref Health Africa Switzerland office will serve as a strategic hub for engaging policymakers, philanthropic organisations, research institutions and global health partners based in Switzerland and across Europe.
The launch comes as the global health sector faces growing pressure from declining development funding, climate-related health risks, geopolitical uncertainty and increasing demands on healthcare systems.
By establishing a presence in one of the world’s leading centres for global health diplomacy, Amref aims to strengthen African participation in international health policy while promoting African-led solutions to challenges affecting the continent.
“As the global health landscape continues to shift, Africa must not remain on the margins of decisions that shape the future of its people and health systems,” said Dr Githinji Gitahi, Group Chief Executive Officer of Amref Health Africa.
“African countries, communities and institutions are already leading innovative solutions to some of the world’s most pressing health challenges. The launch of Amref Health Africa Switzerland strengthens our ability to engage global partners on more equal terms while ensuring that partnerships are informed by African priorities, led by African expertise and accountable to the communities they serve.”
Headquartered in Kenya, Amref Health Africa is the continent’s largest Africa-based international health organisation, working with governments and communities in more than 30 African countries while providing health services and training to over 20 million people every year.
The Switzerland office will focus on strengthening collaboration around primary healthcare, health financing, women’s health, climate and health, digital innovation, community health systems and broader global health reform.
According to Guglielmo Micucci, Chief Fundraising Development and Communication Officer at Amref Health Africa, the new office will create stronger links between African health priorities and Switzerland’s global health community.
“We look forward to building partnerships that support sustainable, African-led solutions and contribute to lasting health impact across the continent,” he said.
Amref said the Geneva office reflects its long-term commitment to ensuring African expertise, research and innovation play a greater role in shaping international health policy while building stronger, more resilient and equitable health systems across Africa.
