The World Bank has appointed Dr. Francisca Ayodeji Akala, a Nigerian health and development expert, as its new Country Manager for Uganda, effective August 1, 2025. She succeeds Ms. Mukami Kariuki, who completed her four-year term.
Dr. Akala, known as "Ayo," will manage the World Bank's $4.5 billion portfolio in Uganda, overseeing 18 active projects across sectors like energy access, education, healthcare, and refugee livelihood support. She will also lead the Bank's engagement with the Ugandan government and civil society, ensuring alignment with national priorities under Vision 2040 and the Third National Development Plan (NDP III).
The World Bank noted that, as Country Manager, Dr. Akala will guide the design and implementation of the Bank’s evolving support program, with a focus on fostering faster, more resilient, and inclusive growth. The Bank aims to create better jobs through its support for Uganda's development.
With over 25 years of experience in health systems and public service delivery, Dr. Akala has worked across Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, and the Middle East. Her expertise includes immunisation, HIV/AIDS, malaria, and malnutrition, particularly in fragile and conflict-affected regions. She has also been a core member of the World Bank’s Human Capital Project.
Before her appointment in Uganda, Dr. Akala served as Practice Manager for Health, Nutrition, and Population in 13 countries in Eastern and Southern Africa. She has held senior roles across the Western and Central Africa and South Asia regions, as well as in the Middle East and North Africa.
Dr. Akala holds a medical degree from the University of Ibadan, a Master of Public Health from the University of Lagos, and a Master of Health Services Management from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.
Her appointment comes at a critical time for Uganda, which is facing challenges such as youth unemployment, poverty disparities, and rising healthcare demands. The World Bank is confident that her leadership will strengthen its partnership with Uganda and drive impactful economic transformation and social inclusion. Dr. Akala will be based in Kampala.