The anxiety that had gripped the National HIV/AIDS/STI/TB Council and its partners after the abrupt departure of Dr Jabbin Mulwanda as Director General is over following the appointment of Dr Reuben Kamoto Mbewe as the new Chief Executive Officer of the national HIV response coordinating institution.
Dr Mbewe, a seasoned medical practitioner, was unveiled to staff at the national secretariat today, Thursday 23rd February 2017 by the NAC Chairperson Dr George Tembo. Dr Tembo observed that the appointee was bringing to NAC vast competencies and skills gained over years of practice in senior positions at the Ministry of Health where he once served as spokesperson.
He said Dr Mbewe discharged his duties well in enhancing the visibility of the Ministry of Health and hoped that he would use those skills in raising the profile of NAC.
Dr Tembo told staff that he appreciated the anxiety that gripped donors after Dr Mulwanda left the institution but emphasised that institutions did not depend on individuals but systems.
“I am aware that some of our cooperating partners were unsettled and anxious following Dr Mulwanda’s departure but we should in fact be happy for him as he has moved up the ladder for the benefit of NAC. Institutions don’t’ depend on individuals but on systems,” said Dr Tembo.
Dr Tembo described the process of recruiting the new CEO as rigorous, transparent and superintend by a diverse and neutral panel. He paid tribute to Mr John Mwale who acted as Director General for managing the affairs of the organisation in an exemplary manner.
He appealed to staff to accord Dr Mbewe the necessary support to enable him steer the organisation in the right direction.
And Dr Mbewe thanked NAC for entrusting him with the responsibilities of providing leadership to the institution describing himself as a person who believes in the worth of every worker.
“I am very flexible, open to suggestions and I pledge that I will give NAC the necessary guidance while at the same time I am looking for maximum cooperation from all of you,” he said.
Dr Mbewe is an Obstetrician, Gynecologist and Public Health Specialist.
And Mr Mwale said he cherished the honour bestowed upon him by NAC to act as CEO, saying a lot had been achieved during the period he was at the helm.
Report prepared by the NAC Communications Unit
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