#National News

Celebrating Excellence: Gambian-born named ‘Outstanding Country Rep of the Year’

Oct 8, 2025, 11:47 AM

In a testament to unwavering commitment to Africa's health security, Mr. Bakary Sonko, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) Country Representative to Liberia, has been named the recipient of the prestigious Outstanding Country Representative of the Year Award for 2025/26 by the West Africa Media Network (WAMN)

The award spotlights Sonko's exemplary leadership and tireless efforts to fortify regional public health systems. Under his guidance, Sonko has spearheaded initiatives to enhance disease prevention and response mechanisms, forging vital partnerships that bolster collective resilience against health threats.

Sonko’s contribution aligned seamlessly with Africa CDC's mission to empower nations against outbreaks. He draws from his frontline experience in Liberia, where the organisation has been instrumental in post-Ebola recovery and COVID-19 vaccination drives that elevated coverage from 70% to 80% in 2023.

His work has been particularly vital in West Africa, a region scarred by past epidemics, including the 2014-2016 Ebola crisis that claimed over 4,800 lives in Liberia alone.

Before joining Africa CDC, Sonko served as Program Manager for The Gambia's National Mental Health Program at the Ministry of Health, where his innovative approaches to mental health care earned him international acclaim. His accolades include the Excellent Leadership Award for Healthcare Services in Africa from the Nigeria Nurses and Midwives Association in 2023; the African Nurses Honorary Fellowship Award for contributions to nursing development in 2007; certification as a Master Trainer in WHO mental health treatment guidelines; and the esteemed WHO Fellowship in Mental Health in 1996.

The formal award presentation will take place at the WAMN Annual Excellence Gala 2025 later this year in West Africa. This event celebrates trailblazers in development, governance, health, and social progress. Distinguished leaders from across the region will gather to honour institutions and individuals like Sonko, whose dedication fosters sustainable health advancements.

As Africa grapples with emerging threats like Mpox—where Sonko recently represented Liberia at an Africa CDC vaccine strategy workshop in Addis Ababa—such recognitions underscore the need for continued investment in public health infrastructure.

"It's a profound honour that motivates me to push further for equitable health access," Sonko remarked, reflecting on his journey from Gambian nurse to continental health advocate.

Join us in congratulating Mr. Bakary Sonko on this well-deserved milestone—proof that visionary leadership can safeguard millions.

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