Silvestre Ngwa Suh is an accomplished organisational management and health systems strengthening executive, currently serving as the Country Director for the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI) in Sierra Leone.
Silvestre's academic journey began at the University of Dschang in Cameroon, where he earned a bachelor's degree and a Post Graduate Certificate in Economics and Management. Driven by a strong desire to contribute to the health sector, he pursued a Masters in Global Health at Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), graduating in 2021.
With a keen interest in public health and organisational development, Silvestre embarked on a diverse career path. He started as a finance and administrative officer for a local NGO in Cameroon, demonstrating his commitment to learning and growth. Transitioning to programs and fieldwork, he supported community initiatives focused on improving access to affordable HIV testing, care, and treatment in the Northwest Region of Cameroon.
Silvestre's dedication led him to roles with international NGOs, including Voluntary Service Overseas (VSO), where he worked as a Program Development Officer. In this capacity, he collaborated with community-based organizations and civil society groups to develop and implement HIV care and treatment programs. His work extended to addressing broader issues, such as gender inclusion, reproductive, maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent health (RMNCAH), and community development.
In 2014, Silvestre joined the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), initially working in the Center Region of Cameroon. He played a pivotal role in scaling up HIV testing and treatment for pregnant and lactating mothers and infants. Later, he relocated to Sierra Leone, where he led teams focused on developing and implementing government -led Human Resources for Health (HRH) policies and strategies. Silvestre provided technical assistance to the Ministry of Health and Sanitation, contributing to increased access to family planning services and the optimization of its health workforce.
Recognising Silvestre's exceptional contributions and leadership, CHAI appointed him as the Country Director, a position he has held since January 2021. In this role, Silvestre oversees CHAI's comprehensive portfolio in Sierra Leone, managing financial resources, material assets, and a diverse team of professionals. His responsibilities cover a range of health programs, including vaccines delivery, sexual and reproductive health, HRH, supply chain systems strengthening, assistive technology, geospatial data use, and medical oxygen expansion.
Silvestre's journey exemplifies the impact of his LSTM education. His Master's program equipped him with the skills and knowledge to navigate complex health challenges globally. Silvestre emphasises the importance of commitment, organisation, and staying motivated for prospective students, urging them to make the most of their time at LSTM.
Today, Silvestre is a senior leader within a global health organisation, providing evidence-based responses to critical public health issues. His role as Country Director allows him to contribute significantly to Sierra Leone's health sector, supporting initiatives that strengthen health systems and improve overall health outcomes.
Looking to the future, Silvestre aims to pursue a higher qualification, possibly a Ph.D., building on the foundation of his LSTM education and extensive professional experience.