The Access Challenge, an organization dedicated to addressing global health disparities, has announced the resignation of its founder and Chief Executive Officer, Campana. Asad Lilani has been appointed as the new CEO, effective June 21, 2024. The announcement came alongside the news that Ambassador Togolani Mavura and Campana have become co-board chairs of The Access Challenge.
Mavura brings extensive experience from his role as Tanzanian Ambassador to South Korea and his background in Tanzanian and international diplomacy. Lilani, recognized for his impactful work in global health policy and advocacy, is set to lead the organization to new heights. During his tenure at The Access Challenge, Lilani advanced the Universal Health Coverage agenda at the African Union and UN levels, and led the organization’s COVID-19 response, reaching over 75 million people across Africa through vaccination campaigns in partnership with the Africa CDC and WHO. Over the past five years, he has led campaigns across seven countries focusing on Universal Health Coverage, COVID-19, polio, cholera, HIV, and pandemic preparedness.
The leadership transition is part of a strategic move to embed African voices at the center of global health decision-making processes. Campana emphasized the importance of African leadership in shaping global health priorities, aligning with the mission of The Access Challenge and the actions of leading global health actors like ONE, USAID, and the White Ribbon Alliance, which prioritize investments in local leadership and solutions.
Campana highlighted the significance of youth representation in leadership roles, noting that with approximately 75 percent of Africa’s population under the age of 35, empowering this demographic is essential for sustainable progress. The leadership change marks the beginning of a transformative phase for the organization, advocating for global health leadership that genuinely reflects the perspectives and experiences of its beneficiaries.
Mavura, expressing his long association with The Access Challenge, stated his belief in its mission and ambition, and his eagerness to contribute to its agenda. As co-chairs of the board of directors, Campana and Mavura will ensure the organization’s ongoing commitment to its mission and the successful transition towards a future with promising prospects for Africa and global health.
