The WHO Foundation has appointed Anil Soni, an Indian origin health expert, as its first Chief Executive Officer (CEO). He will assume office from January 1, 2021.
WHO Foundation is an independent grant-making entity, that supports WHO’s (World Health Assembly’s) efforts to address the most pressing global health challenges.
Soni joins the Foundation from Viatris, a global healthcare company, where he served as Head of Global Infectious Diseases.
Founder and Chairman of the Board of the WHO Foundation Professor Thomas Zeltner called Soni a “dynamic leader”. He added, “From his work at Viatris where he has led the development and introduction of medicines to treat HIV/AIDS and Tuberculosis, to his leadership of the Clinton Health Access Initiative, and his time at the Global Fund (to fight AIDS, TB and Malaria), he has demonstrated his ability to work across public, private, and non profit sectors and build successful new organizations from the ground up”.
On his appointment, Soni said, “We are at a critical juncture for global public health. After months of combatting the Covid-19 pandemic, there is hope for several successful vaccine candidates. Beyond this crucial step, the path to recovery necessitates expanded investment in the many health priorities that have been compromised in recent months — from drops in vaccine coverage and HIV treatment to delays in cancer treatment”.
The Foundation will aim to strengthen efforts of WHO to address pressing health concerns. It will also try to create new opportunities for donors, corporate partners and general public to engage with WHO. The Covid-19 Solidarity Response Fund for WHO which was launched earlier this year could raise $238 million in corporate and individual pledges.
WHO Foundation will act as a platform for more public-private engagement while also maintaining autonomy and neutrality of WHO.
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