Lukoye Atwoli, distinguished Dean of the Aga Khan University’s Medical College and son of Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) Secretary General Francis Atwoli, has been elected as an international member of the National Academy of Medicine (NAM).
This prestigious recognition, announced during the NAM’s annual meeting on October 21, 2023, places him among an elite group of 10 international members and 90 regular members selected for their exceptional contributions to health and medicine. The National Academy of Medicine, based in Washington, D.C., operates as an integral component of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. This esteemed institution helps in addressing critical health challenges and providing expert guidance to policymakers.
Election to the NAM represents one of the highest accolades in the health and medical fields and celebrates individuals who demonstrate outstanding professional achievement and dedication to service. Lukoye holds a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery from Moi University, complemented by a Master’s in Psychiatry from Nairobi University and a doctorate from the University of Cape Town. His current appointments include positions as a Visiting Scientist at the Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health and an Honorary Associate Professor at the University of Cape Town.
The recognition garnered particular attention when Francis Atwoli took to social media to express his pride in his son’s accomplishment, emphasizing Lukoye’s ongoing contributions to Kenya’s and Africa’s academic and professional reputation. As a newly elected member of the NAM, Lukoye Atwoli brings considerable expertise in mental health care policy, education, and epidemiology. His work with the African and Global Medical and Psychiatric Association has been instrumental in shaping mental health care policies and practices.
NAM President Victor J. Dzau lauds the importance of such expertise in addressing urgent health challenges and promoting global health equity.
The appointment positions Lukoye to make even greater contributions to health policy and research on both national and international levels. His election to the NAM not only recognizes his past achievements but also empowers him to participate in shaping the future of healthcare.
