I have heard it said a few times already: It’s not what is being said at panel discussions that necessarily make an impact; rather, it is the discussions taking place in the hallways that make a difference. Attending my first WHO-sponsored conference has been eye-opening, to say the least. I have been an avid observer of the dynamics dictating a conference of this nature. The panel discussions have had their engaging moments—especially with distinguished speakers such as Anarfi-Asamoa Baah, Deputy-Director General WHO, whose humor has drawn many a laugh during serious matters; Rajat Gupta, Chair of the Global Fund to fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria, and Bience Gawanas, the Commissioner for Social Affairs for the African Union and Task Force. However, the more fruitful conversations take place during our breaks and after planned sessions when we have a chance to approach such individuals and speak to them more about their projects. I’ve been amazed by the number of innovative projects and collaborations. Yesterday, I listened to a representative from Touch speak of collaboration with McKinsey and Co. and the Tanzanian government to scale up HRH training and capacity in schools across the country.
Being in this environment has been both tempering and invigorating. It has been tempering in the sense that in witnessing the dampening effects of bureaucracy and politics on effective policy change, I have started questioning my desire to be directly involved with organizations such as the WHO in my future career. Invigorating, given the innovation, research, and advocacy that is occurring globally among individuals and organizations
Just a few thoughts on the matter…this post hardly does justice to the past few days in Kampala. More to come soon.
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