— Mercy Mwangangi joins GCC’s board and Dr. Joseo Rono joins the Investment Committee —
September 25, 2023 (Toronto, Canada) – Grand Challenges Canada (GCC) is thrilled to announce the appointment of two distinguished global health leaders, Dr. Mercy Mwangangi and Dr. Josea Rono. They both bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the organization’s mission of tackling some of the world’s most pressing global challenges.
Dr. Mercy Mwangangi, former Chief Administrative Secretary in Kenya’s Ministry of Health Kenya, joins GCC’s Board of Directors. She holds a medical degree from the University of Nairobi and a master’s degree in health economics and policy from the University of Adelaide. Dr. Mwangangi brings a deep understanding of health systems and policy, which will prove invaluable in advancing GCC’s efforts to catalyze innovation in global health.
Dr. Josea Rono, Co-Founder and Managing Director at E&K Consulting Firm, a pan-African advisory and investment firm, will be joining GCC’s Investment Committee (IC). Dr. Rono, also the Co-Founder and Convenor of the Health Exchange (HealthX), holds a Ph.D. in Global Health from the Karolinska Institute. Through the Firm, he has advised on transactions worth over US$ 20 Billion in the global healthcare, innovation, and climate/ energy sectors. He has led advisory and investment engagements on behalf of over 130 organizations in over 30 countries in Africa, Europe and the Americas. His thought leadership has seen him work on some of the world’s most intractable challenges across the public, private, development and philanthropic sectors. His extensive expertise in health economics and financing make him a valuable addition to the committee, which plays a crucial role in identifying and funding groundbreaking health innovations.
Commenting on the appointments, Guylaine Saucier, Chair of GCC’s Board of Directors, expressed her excitement, saying, “We are delighted to welcome Dr. Mwangangi to GCC’s board and Dr. Rono to our Investment Committee. Their extensive experience and profound dedication to improving global health will be significant assets to the organization. We believe their insights will contribute greatly to our mission.”
Dr. Mwangangi shared her enthusiasm for joining GCC’s board, stating, “I am honored to be part of Grand Challenges Canada and contribute to its transformative work. As a former public health official, I have seen firsthand the impact of innovative solutions in healthcare delivery. I look forward to leveraging my experience to advance the organization’s goal of improving health outcomes for all.”
Dr. Rono shared his perspective on his new role, stating, “I am excited to join the Investment Committee at Grand Challenges Canada. The IC’s mission aligns perfectly with my passion for driving health innovation in Africa and beyond. I look forward to collaborating with the committee to identify and support transformative initiatives that can have a lasting impact on global health.”
Grand Challenges Canada is dedicated to supporting Bold Ideas with Big Impact® that improve the health and well-being of people low- and middle-income countries. Through its programs and partnerships, GCC seeks to accelerate the development and deployment of innovations that address some of the world’s most urgent health challenges.
For more information about Grand Challenges Canada and its initiatives, please visit www.grandchallenges.ca.
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About Grand Challenges Canada
Grand Challenges Canada is dedicated to supporting bold ideas that integrate scientific, technological, and business innovations to address critical global health challenges. One of the largest impact-first investors in Canada, Grand Challenges Canada has supported a pipeline of over 1,400 innovations in 102 countries. Grand Challenges Canada estimates that these innovations have the potential to save up to 1.78 million lives and improve up to 64 million lives by 2030. By providing funding, resources, and expertise, Grand Challenges Canada empowers innovators in low- and middle-income countries and Canada to create scalable and sustainable solutions that improve outcomes for underserved populations. Grand Challenges Canada is funded by the Government of Canada, and other partners. For more information, please visit www.grandchallenges.ca .
Media contact:
Maryam Mirza
Associate Communications Officer
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