New Assistant director PAHO/WHO

Rashaed Esson

Staff Writer

October 13, 2023 – A new Assistant Director for the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) has been appointed from one of the smallest Caribbean nations, Antigua and Barbuda.

Dr. Rhona Sealey- Thomas was sworn in on October 12th as the new Assistant Director for PAHO/WHO, Regional Office for the Americas of the WHO. This was announced in a press release by the Organization.

Sealey is now part of PAHO’s Executive Management team, along with Dr. Jarbas Barbosa, PAHO Director; Deputy Director, Ms. Mary-Lou Valdez and Mrs. Kristan Beck,

Director of Administration.

Now, she has under her responsibility three PAHO/WHO technical centers: the Pan American Center for Foot-and-Mouth Disease and Veterinary Public Health (PANAFTOSA); the Latin American Center for Perinatology, Women and Reproductive Health (CLAP/WR); and the Latin American and Caribbean Center on Health Sciences Information (BIREME).

Also, “she oversees the departments of Communicable Diseases, Prevention, Control and Elimination; Social and Environmental Determinants for Health Equity; Evidence and Intelligence for Action in Health; Health Systems and Services; Innovation, Access to Medicines and Health Technologies; and Noncommunicable Diseases Prevention and Mental Health; as well as the Special Programs on Comprehensive Immunization and the Regional Revolving Funds,” the release says.

Barbosa, speaking at the swearing in, on Sealey’s appointment, expressed that the organization is fortunate to have her, as he highlighted her life’s work and her values.

He said, “Dr. Sealey-Thomas knows, understands and shares the values and the mission of this great organization. Indeed, the work of her whole life reflects these values of equity, excellence, solidarity, respect and integrity.” 

Honorable. Sir Molwyn Joseph, Minister of Health, Wellness & the Environment of Antigua and Barbuda, also speaking at the ceremony, spoke of Sealy’s capacity to successfully carry out the news talks she’s been given.

Moreover, Sealey gave a few words on her appointment, highlighting her dedication to do what is required.

“Please be assured that I embark on this journey with humility, determination and compassion. Let us all remember that our collective efforts are the driving force behind building healthier, more resilient, and more equitable societies throughout the Americas,” she maintained.

For over 25 years Sealey has worked in heath with the Ministry of Health in Antigua and Barbuda and she carries a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery degree, as well as a Master of Public Health and a Doctorate in Public Health from the University of the West Indies, Mona, Jamaica.