Cynthia Mwase

Cynthia Mwase leads the foundation’s health strategy in Africa.

Over a career of more than 25 years, Cynthia has led initiatives to improve access to quality health services, strengthen health systems, and deliver sustainable, relevant solutions in 42 countries across Africa and the Middle East.

Before joining the foundation in 2023, Cynthia spent nearly 11 years at the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, most recently as the head of the Africa and Middle East Department. In that role, which required managing complex, multibillion-dollar grant portfolios, her ability to navigate diverse geopolitical landscapes and foster partnerships with governments, nongovernmental organizations, and the private sector resulted in measurable improvements in health outcomes for millions of people.

Cynthia is also deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of leaders, building communities of practice, and fostering collaboration across sectors to achieve meaningful change.

Cynthia is a graduate of the University of Zambia and earned an M.Sc. from the University of London and a master’s degree in international health from the University of Basel.