Phenomena Leading with Perspective – with Githinji Gitahi
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Feb 17, 2025 
In this discussion, Dr. Githinji Gitahi, Group CEO of Amref Health Africa, shares insights from his transformative leadership journey at Africa's largest health NGO. He talks about shifting from a disease-focused approach to a holistic health systems strategy, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and embracing vulnerability in leadership. Dr. Gitahi also highlights the critical connection between adolescent health and socioeconomic development, stressing the need for innovative solutions to meet the challenges posed by climate change and urban migration in Africa.
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AMREF's Origins and Growth
- AMREF's origins trace back to 1957 as the African Medical Research Foundation, founded by surgeons after World War II.
- Initially providing reconstructive surgery, they expanded into addressing community health needs, utilizing air transport to reach remote areas.
Corporate Insight, NGO Outside
- Dr. Gitahi joined AMREF in 2015 during a period of rapid growth and needed to update internal processes and systems.
- He adopted a "Corporate Insight, NGO Outside" philosophy, balancing financial efficiency with community health needs.
Shifting to Systems-Led Approach
- Shifting from a vertical to a systems-led approach requires a mindset shift and patience.
- Acknowledge that it's not an either/or situation, but a diagonal approach integrating both.