Dr. Waqo Dulacha Ejersa appointed new KEMSA boss

Dr. Waqo Dulacha Ejersa has been named the new Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA) CEO, replacing Dr. Andrew Mulwa who had been serving in an acting capacity since March 2023.

Prior to his appointment, Dr. Ejersa, a medical doctor by profession, served as the head of the National Tuberculosis, Leprosy and Lung Diseases, a division under the Department of National Strategic Public Health Programs, Directorate of Preventive and Promotive Health in the Ministry of Health.

He brings more than 25 years of experience in health policy formulation and implementation, both at national and international levels, to the role.

Dr. Ejersa, a Malaria specialist who unsuccessfully vied for the Saku Parliamentary seat during the August 2022 polls, holds Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery degrees from the University of Nairobi, and a Master of Public Health from the University of Melbourne.

He is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Strategic Planning from Edinburgh Business School.

Notably, he served as the Head of the Department of Non-Communicable Diseases Programmes, where he chaired the interagency coordinating committee and oversaw policy development and strategic planning aimed at mitigating the effects of non-communicable diseases.

As the Head of the National Malaria Control Programme, Dr. Ejersa developed and executed national malaria strategies, successfully mobilizing hundreds of millions of Kenyan Shillings in funding and achieving universal coverage of malaria control interventions.

His expertise in financial management, strategic planning, and governance has significantly enhanced accountability, transparency, and efficiency in health programs implementation.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions to public health, Dr. Ejersa was previously awarded the Order of Grand Warrior of Kenya.

He is also known for his contributions to community health systems strengthening and capacity building.

He has trained and mentored numerous health professionals, enhancing their skills and knowledge to improve public health outcomes. His work in policy development has influenced public administration practices, contributing to the formulation of effective health policies and programs.

“Regarding my contribution to Malaria elimination; I have been recognized both locally and internationally for contributing to Malaria elimination programs through policy formulation and enactment as well as developing national health strategic plans and health policy frameworks,” Dr. Ejersa's CV reads in part.

He also highlighted his strong mobilization and convening skills, demonstrating an ability to unite diverse stakeholders such as development partners, researchers, governments, and medical experts.