Introduction
In this edition, we reflect on a month of deep partnerships, international collaborations, and the inspiring success of AfyaFest 2025. From thought leadership and innovation showcases to moments of grief and solidarity, August reminded us of the resilience and vision shaping the future of African health.
Featured News
Honouring Our Fallen Heroes – AMIU and Amref family mourned the tragic AMREF Flying Doctors aircraft crash, leading to a seven-day social media blackout in solidarity with the fallen colleagues and community members.
AfyaFest 2025 – From August 26–28, AMIU co-hosted Africa’s largest youth-led health innovation festival with Amref Health Africa under the Africa Health Collaborative in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation. The event highlighted climate and health resilience, maternal health innovations, NCDs, mental health, and investor readiness for African startups.
Partnerships and Collaborations
Canadian Exchange – Dr. Marc-David Munk (Canada) visited AMIU, engaging students and faculty in an insightful dialogue on health systems.
UNC Wilmington & KMDC – Dr. Alice Lakati, Director of Research and Community Extension at AMIU, and Mr. Patrick Okwarah hosted a delegation from the University of North Carolina led by Dr. Michelle Cathorall and Dr. Shaila Strayhorn-Carter, alongside Ms. Venna Odhiambo, a representative from the Kenya Minnesota Development Centre (KMDC). The meeting explored exciting opportunities for collaborative research and student/faculty exchange programmes. Discussions with Dr. Michelle Cathorall, Dr. Shaila Strayhorn-Carter, and Ms. Venna Odhiambo opened doors for a 2026 Study Abroad Program focused on public health in Kenya.
University of Hargeisa (Somaliland) – AMIU leadership led by Professor Tammary Rotich met with senior officials; Mr. Abdiqathar Rashid, Head of Partnerships and International Collaborations, and Dr. Jonah Kiragu ,Deputy Director, Research and Grants from the University of Hargeisa to explore collaborative research, joint programs, and knowledge exchange initiatives.
Community & Regional Impact
AfyaFest 2025 Highlights
Day 1: Universities urged to nurture adaptable, globally connected graduates; mental health stigma addressed head-on.
Day 2: Youth-led maternal health innovations across Africa and insights from regional networks for scaling startups.
Day 3: Final pitching sessions revealed Africa’s young innovators building the future of primary healthcare through bold solutions.
Achievements & Milestones
AfyaFest 2025 cemented AMIU’s position as a continental hub for health innovation and education, fostering global connections and showcasing the power of youth-led solutions.
Closing Remarks
📌 Save the Date: The 2nd Primary Health Care Congress (PHC Congress 2026) will be held on March 4–6, 2026 at AMIU’s Northlands Campus. Together with our partners, we will redefine and reinforce the goals of PHC in advancing UHC for all.
Amref International University – Developing fit-for-purpose leaders for Africa’s primary health care.
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