Dr Joy Mugambi
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Dr. Mugambi has been elected as the Commonwealth Medical Association new Secretary-General during the 27th Biennial Conference in Chennai.
The conference, which concluded on November 10, saw the Kenya Medical Association's nominee secure a commanding victory during the proceedings hosted by the India Medical Association. The leadership transition extends beyond Dr. Mugambi's appointment, as Prof. J. A. Jayalal of the India Medical Association steps into the role of CMA President, succeeding Dr. Muruga Raj from Malaysia. Dr. Mugambi brings substantial experience to her new position, having previously served two consecutive terms as Vice President for the East, Central, and South African Region at CMA.
Her distinguished career is marked by notable achievements in family medicine and exemplary leadership across various medical organizations. Dr. Mugambi's professional acclaim is evidenced by several prestigious recognitions, including the Kenya Medical Association Distinguished Service Award (2021), the Kenya Association of Family Physicians 5 Star Doctor Award (2022), and the Fellow of Commonwealth Medical Association Award (2023). The CMA, established in 1962 and headquartered in London, has evolved into a robust organization encompassing 54 member nations across six global regions.
As a non-governmental entity, it focuses on enhancing the capabilities of National Medical Associations throughout the Commonwealth to advance community health and wellness. The recent elections also ushered in several other leadership changes, strengthening the Coalition of African National Medical Associations' (CANMA) presence within the CMA. Zambian Kaumba Roy Tolopu has assumed Dr. Mugambi's former position as Vice President for the ECSA Region, while Colin Abel of Jamaica and Mary Coleman of Ghana have been appointed as Treasurer and Vice President of the West Africa Region, respectively.
The organization's governance structure centers on the CMA Council, which serves as its supreme decision-making body. This council comprises executive officers and representatives from each member association, including the President, Immediate Past President, Regional Vice Presidents, Secretary-General, and Treasurer, thus ensuring comprehensive representation across the Commonwealth.
Dr. Mugambi's appointment is expected to advance the CMA's mission of enhancing medical standards and policies across member nations, with particular emphasis on sustainable healthcare practices and equitable access to medical services.