- Dr Joy Mugambi from the Kenya Medical Association was elected as the new Secretary General of the Commonwealth Medical Association
- Dr Mugambi won the position with a landslide vote and aims to improve health and wellbeing globally
- Dr Mugambi's predecessor, Prof J.A. Jayalal, assumes the role of CMA President
The Kenya Medical Association (KMA) has achieved a remarkable milestone at the 27th Biennial Conference of the Commonwealth Medical Association (CMA), held from November 8th to 10th, 2024, in Chennai, India.
The event, hosted by the India Medical Association, saw Dr Joy Mugambi elected as the new Secretary General of the CMA, a role she assumes following the tenure of Prof J.A. Jayalal.
This election marks a significant achievement for KMA, with Dr Mugambi's leadership of the CMA set to further strengthen ties within the Commonwealth.
A new era of leadership for CMA
Dr Joy Mugambi’s election to the position of Secretary General was nothing short of historic, as she won with a landslide vote.
“It is an honour to represent the interests of our member nations, and I am committed to strengthening the capacities of National Medical Associations within the Commonwealth to improve health and wellbeing globally,” Dr Mugambi said following her election.
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Her two-term service as Vice President for the East, Central and South African region has paved the way for this new chapter in her career.
Dr Mugambi’s predecessor, Prof Jayalal, now assumes the role of CMA President, following the term of Dr Muruga Raj of the Malaysia Medical Association.
The election results also marked a new leadership structure, with Dr Colin Abel of Jamaica taking over as Treasurer.
Strengthening Africa’s presence in global health leadership
The representation of African nations within the CMA has also been bolstered, with Dr Kauma Roy Tolopu, President of the Zambia Medical Association, elected as Vice President for the East, Central, and South African Region.
“I am excited to continue the work of Dr Joy Mugambi and ensure that our region’s health priorities are effectively addressed,” Dr Tolopu remarked.
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He takes over the role from Dr Mugambi, who now moves to the Secretary General position.
Additionally, Dr Mary Coleman of Ghana was elected Vice President for the West African region, further reinforcing Africa’s presence within the CMA’s leadership.