Kenyan scientist Prof. Kenneth Ngure has been appointed to the World Health Organization (WHO) Technical Advisory Group on Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), handing the country another major role in shaping global health policies.
The appointment places the renowned HIV prevention researcher among experts tasked with advising WHO on the prevention, treatment and control of sexually transmitted infections across the world.
Prof. Ngure, who teaches at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), will serve a three-year term after being picked through a competitive global selection process.
Reacting to his appointment, the professor described the role as both an honour and a responsibility.
“I am deeply honoured by this appointment and grateful to the World Health Organization for the opportunity. I look forward to working with colleagues from around the world to ensure scientific evidence continues to shape policies that improve health outcomes,” he said.
He added that the appointment was not just a personal achievement but also a recognition of Kenya’s growing contribution to global health research.
Prof. Ngure is one of Africa’s leading HIV prevention researchers and has spent more than two decades conducting studies on HIV prevention, sexual and reproductive health and public health policy.
He currently serves as the President-elect of the International AIDS Society, becoming the first Kenyan to hold the position in the organisation’s history.
His latest appointment means he will now help WHO develop scientific guidance used by countries in tackling infections such as gonorrhoea, syphilis and chlamydia.
The advisory group also reviews emerging health threats and recommends policies aimed at reducing the spread of sexually transmitted infections, particularly among vulnerable populations.
The appointment is another boost for Kenya’s reputation in medical research, with local scientists increasingly taking up influential positions in global health organisations.
For Kenya, it is also a vote of confidence in the country’s growing role in advancing HIV prevention research and shaping international public health policy.
