MASERU, LESOTHO – Dr. Innocent Bright Nuwagira, the newly appointed World Health Organization (WHO) Representative in Lesotho, today presented his credentials to Honourable Lejone Mpotjoane, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations, during a productive meeting held at the Ministry. The meeting marked the official commencement of Dr. Nuwagira’s tour of duty in Lesotho, highlighting the beginning of a new chapter in the ongoing collaboration between the WHO and the Mountain Kingdom. The discussions focused on strengthening areas of collaboration, including improving Primary Health Care, which is a critical priority in advancing the health agenda. 

Minister Mpotjoane extended a warm welcome to Dr. Nuwagira, expressing gratitude for WHO’s ongoing significant contributions to advancing health in Lesotho. “As Government, we appreciate WHO as a trusted partner in promoting health through various initiatives including maternal and child health, vaccination, HIV/TB and strengthening Primary Health Care”. The Minister also assured Dr. Nuwagira of the Government’s full support in fulfilling his role as the WHO’s Head of Mission and Representative.

Dr. Nuwagira thanked the Honourable Minister for according him a very warm welcome, and conveyed the appreciation of the WHO Director General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus  and the WHO Africa Regional Director, Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, for the excellent relationship and collaboration between WHO and the Government of the Kingdom of Lesotho. He emphasized WHO's commitment to Lesotho’s health goals, particularly the renewed focus on Primary Health Care. "Prevention remains the best approach to ensuring good health of the people," he stated. "This aligns with the key focus areas of the WHO’s 14th General Programme of Work (GPW14) which are to Promote Health, Provide Health, and Protect Health."

Dr. Nuwagira brings over two decades of public health and development experience to his role. Prior to his appointment in Lesotho, Dr. Nuwagira served as the Acting WHO Representative in Sierra Leone. A Ugandan medical doctor by profession with a global health mindset, Dr. Nuwagira has served in various public health capacities including more than 18 years with WHO, starting with Uganda Country Office, Intercountry Support Team for Eastern and Southern Africa, Intercountry Support Team for Western Africa, and was an integral part of the Multi-Country Assignment Team (MCAT) for the African Region, among other roles.

WHO remains dedicated to working closely with the Government of Lesotho, development partners, civil society, and communities, and as part of a United Nations Country Team, towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and ensuring that the people of Lesotho attain the highest level of health possible.