INCLUSIVITY

Nairobi hosts PATH’s first global leadership meeting in Africa

Kenya emerged as the leader in representation

In Summary

•PATH which operates in over 70 countries including Kenya, works to improve global health through innovative solutions and partnerships.

• As part of this transformation, the workplace is adopting flexible work arrangements and hybrid models, recognizing these as key drivers of success.

International Women's day is celebrated every March 8.
International Women's day is celebrated every March 8.
Image: SCREENGRAB

A new global report released in Nairobi shows that women now hold a majority of executive roles and there has been a 25 per cent increase in Black staff in the US since 2021.

The 2023 report from the Program for Appropriate Technology in Health (PATH), underscores the organization’s commitment to advancing DEI principles across all levels, highlighting its vital role in enhancing global health outcomes.

PATH which operates in over 70 countries including Kenya, works to improve global health through innovative solutions and partnerships.

This year Kenya, became the focal point for PATH’s 2023 Global Leadership Meeting, marking the first time the event was held in Africa.

 The meeting took stock of PATH’s presence on the continent, with its Africa division spread across the East Africa, West Africa, South Africa, and Central Africa Hubs, employing a total of 395 staff.

Kenya emerged as the leader in representation, with 222 staff members engaged in projects across more than 40 of the country’s 47 counties.

The PATH Nairobi office is pioneering efforts to reshape organisational culture, collaboration, inclusion and innovation.

 As part of this transformation, the workplace is adopting flexible work arrangements and hybrid models, recognizing these as key drivers of success.

President and CEO of PATH Nikolaj Gilbert, said that 2024 is the first time that gender parity has been achieved across all organizational levels since 2020.

“It showcases our genuine commitment to a workplace where diversity thrives, equity is paramount, and inclusion is ingrained. These aren’t just ideals—they’re the driving force behind our mission to advance health equity,” said Nikolaj.

One of the office’s notable initiatives is the Women Inspired, Resilient, Engaged, and Disrupting (W.I.R.E.D) program, launched by the East Africa Hub to enhance women’s leadership skills.

Additionally, the report says the introduction of monthly Knowledge Cafés has strengthened connections, fostered cross-team collaboration, and created a sense of inclusion, driving progress and innovation within PATH’s global teams.

PATH’s efforts to center equity in its global health programming were further highlighted in the report, with over 50 percent of projects reporting changes to ensure equity is a core focus.

“While we’ve made significant strides, we recognize that leveling the playing field so that everyone can thrive is an ongoing journey. We remain committed to continuous improvement and accountability in creating a more inclusive and equitable organization,” said Global Head of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at PATH, Levis Nderitu.

The report also features insights from PATH leaders, spotlights on various countries and divisions, and details on industry partnerships that further DEI goals.

WATCH: The latest videos from the Star