Mombasa Governor Abdullswamad Sherrif Nassir has appointed former Belgian Senator Marleen Temmerman as the Chairperson of the Board for Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital (CGTRH).
The announcement, made via gazette notice on September 27, 2024, marks the beginning of Temmerman’s three-year tenure, set to conclude on September 20, 2027. This decision places a highly qualified individual at the helm of one of Kenya’s largest public hospitals. Temmerman brings an impressive array of credentials to her new role. As a Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at the Aga Khan University in Nairobi, she has established herself as a leader in reproductive health. Her previous position as Director of the Department of Reproductive Health and Research at the World Health Organisation stresses her expertise in global health initiatives.
Furthermore, her role as the UNESCO Chair on Youth Leadership in Science, Health, Gender, and Education demonstrates her commitment to advancing health education and empowering future generations. With a capacity of 700 beds, Coast General Hospital faces numerous challenges as highlighted in a report by the US Agency for International Development. These issues range from subpar service quality to extended waiting times, both of which have negatively impacted patient care. Temmerman’s extensive experience and knowledge are expected to be instrumental in addressing these concerns and improving overall operational efficiency.
Governor Nassir’s decision to appoint Temmerman is part of a broader strategy to revitalize health services in Mombasa. This approach is further evidenced by the concurrent appointment of Selina Maitha, a former deputy governor aspirant, to the Board of Mombasa Water and Sewerage Company (MOWASCO) for a three-year term. Temmerman’s background, which includes over 500 publications on women’s health, equips her with the necessary expertise to navigate the complexities of healthcare governance. Her international connections and extensive experience in policy advocacy are likely to influence the hospital’s direction and service delivery positively.
Since taking office in August 2022, Governor Nassir has been actively working on various initiatives to improve the county’s infrastructure and public services. His administration has placed a particular focus on enhancing healthcare, water supply, and sanitation services, with the aim of providing better living conditions for Mombasa residents. In addition to her role at the hospital, Temmerman is anticipated to collaborate with other healthcare institutions and organizations to promote health education and awareness in the region. Her extensive network and experience in global health will be invaluable in attracting international support and funding for various health initiatives in Mombasa.
Hahaha, these African idyets…
Hahaha, these African idyets never seem to amaze me. Why have universities and you can’t find locals to run these crappy hospitals? Are there no qualified Kenyans to do this?