Faith Mandizha
TSITSI Masiyiwa has been appointed board chairperson of The End Fund, a philanthropic initiative dedicated to eradicating neglected tropical diseases (NTDs).
Masiyiwa, the wife of telecoms billionaire and Econet founder, Strive, is known for her work in philanthropy and social entrepreneurship.
She takes over from William Campbell, who had been in that role since 2012.
The appointment is a significant milestone for the fund, making Masiyiwa its first female board chair.
The fund has already achieved notable success, mobilising donations from more than 6 400 donors, issuing 1.5 billion treatments and developing programmes in 31 countries.
Campbell said Masiyiwa was a well respected philanthropist and social entrepreneur, known for her effective advocacy and exemplary leadership, particularly through her role as Chair and co-founder of Higherlife Foundation.
“The END Fund’s growth and impact has been one of my life’s biggest achievements and there is no one better placed to entrust this to than Tsitsi,” said Campbell.
With a track record of leadership in various sectors, including health, education and economic empowerment, Masiyiwa is poised to bring a fresh perspective and innovative approach to the fight against NTDs.
The END Fund’s chief executive, Ellen Agler, shared her perspective on how meaningful Masiyiwa’s appointment is.
“As a long-standing supporter and friend to the END Fund, Tsitsi has been an inspiring champion and activist ensuring that African governments, philanthropists and private sector leaders are in the driver’s seats of the disease elimination agenda.
“She knows how to effectively connect her work with communities to conversations on the global stage to accelerate progress to end the suffering caused by diseases.
“I couldn’t be more excited by the opportunity to serve with her in her new role as END Fund board chair,” said Agler.
Masiyiwa’s dedication to improving the lives of marginalised communities aligns perfectly with The END Fund’s mission to address NTDs, which affect over 1.7 billion people globally.
Under her leadership, the organisation aims to enhance its impact and reach even more individuals in need.