Dr. Muhammad Ahmad Kazi , Director-General (Health)
Dr. Muhammad Ahmad Kazi exemplifies a paragon of leadership and dedication in public health, having carved a significant impact through his roles within Pakistan and on the international stage.
His present position as Director-General of the Federal Directorate of Immunization since August 19th, 2022, and the additional charge as Director General (Health) at the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations & Coordination since November 24th, 2023, underscores his pivotal role in steering Pakistan's health policy and immunization efforts amidst challenging times.
Dr. Kazi's journey in public health began after graduating with a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery from Liaquat University of Medical & Health Sciences, Jamshoro, in 1990, followed by a Master of Community and Public Health from Griffith University, Brisbane, in 1997.
His academic portfolio is as impressive as his professional one, with several training certifications from esteemed institutions worldwide such as Johns Hopkins University, National University of Singapore, and Mahidol University. This educational background has equipped him with a broad perspective on health issues, enabling him to author numerous research publications and present at various national and international forums.
His career trajectory is marked by significant contributions across various capacities within the Health Department of the Government of Sindh, including roles such as District Health Officer in Karachi where he rolled out successfully the Covid-19 vaccination and Medical Superintendent at Sindh Government Hospital Liaquatabad to manage Covid-19 ICU. These positions laid the groundwork for his expertise in health administration and direct patient care.
Before ascending to his current roles, Dr. Kazi's dedication to public health saw him tackle global health challenges with the World Health Organization as a Provincial Polio Emergency Response Officer among other critical positions, where he contributed to the Global Polio Eradication Initiative in Sindh, Pakistan from 2015 to 2020.
His tenure at the WHO was preceded by pivotal roles within the Government of Sindh, managing key programs such as the Sindh AIDS Control Program, the World Bank funded Family Health Project, the Asian Bank funded Reproductive Health project, and the Institute of Skin Diseases, and he worked in the Ministry of Health to lead the National Programme for PHC and Family Planning, National Malaria Control Program, and Federal Emergency Medical Services Committee on Defence Planning where he made substantial contributions which further highlighting his versatile skill set in managing health agenda. He started his career as Medical Officer appointed through Public Services Commission in 1991.
Dr. Kazi's international acclaim is further evidenced by his representation of Pakistan in the Technical Secretariat for the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons in The Hague, from 2005 to 2012 showcasing his expertise beyond traditional public health realms and into areas of global security and safety.
Recognition of Dr. Kazi's contributions to public health is widespread, as seen in the accolades awarded to him, including a recognition for his services in the fight against Covid-19 by the National Command and Operation Centre, Islamabad, and a certificate of recognition from the OPCW during its Nobel Peace Prize awarding in 2013.
Dr. Muhammad Ahmad Kazi's career is a testament to his profound impact on public health, characterized by his dedication, leadership, and the vast array of roles he has undertaken to improve health outcomes in Pakistan and beyond.