^{By Charles M. Njagi}

The Science for Africa Foundation (SFA Foundation) is pleased to announce the appointment of two prolific global thought leaders, Dr Victoria Simpkin and Martin Eigbike as non-executive directors of the SFA Foundation Board of Directors. Their appointments demonstrate a continued commitment to ensure diversity in background, perspectives and expertise, that is required for a robust governance structure. 

 “The two board members bring vast experience and understanding of the science landscape, their expertise and unique insights in the world of science, policy and R&D are an essential addition to the team. We are committed to the continued building and sustenance of a diverse and inclusive board that meets both the existing and evolving needs within the science landscape across Africa,” said Prof Alinah Segobye, Board Chair for the SFA Foundation. 

Victoria Simpkin is a cardiologist with vast experience in health policy research, R&D strategy, clinical development, medical affairs and commercial operations in large and mid-sized companies. She is currently the Chief Business Officer at Weatherden, a global integrated clinical consultancy and experts in scientific strategy and clinical development pioneering drug development route-to-market design, strategy and execution.  

Martin Eigbike is an experienced strategy and policy advisor and certified program/project manager. He has worked extensively across Africa, advising public institutions, bilateral and multilateral development agencies, international foundations, and private corporations on strategy and execution, public policy reform, and organizational effectiveness. He is currently the founder and Managing Partner at Gawani Advisors Africa Inc, a strategy and policy advisory start-up working to accelerate development in Africa, with a specific focus on addressing global inequality in R&D capacity, including global health R&D.  

“Our board is highly experienced, diverse and globally recruited and provides best class accountability and corporate governance that assures our African and global partners and stakeholders that indeed SFA Foundation is a trusted Africa centred, African led institution,” said Prof Tom Kariuki, CEO for the SFA Foundation. 

The addition of the two brings to 10 the number of independent, non-executive Directors of the SFA Foundation Board.