The African Academy of Sciences (AAS) congratulates Professor Agnes Binagwaho, one of Africa’s foremost public health leaders and a Fellow of the African Academy of Sciences (FAAS), on being named a 2025 recipient of the Distinguished Fellowship of the Academy of Public Health (APH). This prestigious recognition celebrates her outstanding contributions to global health, leadership in health system strengthening, and lifelong dedication to improving health outcomes across Africa.

Professor Binagwaho, who was elected as an AAS Fellow in 2017, exemplifies the Academy’s vision of recognizing and promoting excellence in science. Her election to the AAS was a recognition of her extraordinary impact in advancing equitable healthcare and evidence-based policymaking—values that continue to shape her remarkable career. This new honour from the Academy of Public Health further affirms her standing as a leading figure in global health and a tireless advocate for social justice through health.

The Distinguished Fellowship of the Academy of Public Health is conferred upon individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and impact in public health practice, research, and education. Professor Binagwaho’s inclusion among the 2025 recipients reflects her far-reaching influence in shaping health policy, driving health system reforms, and inspiring a new generation of African health leaders.

A paediatrician by training, Prof Binagwaho has dedicated her life to transforming health systems and ensuring access to quality care for all. She served as Minister of Health of Rwanda from 2011 to 2016, during which she led landmark reforms that significantly reduced child and maternal mortality, expanded vaccination coverage, and strengthened Rwanda’s community-based healthcare system. Her leadership helped position Rwanda as a global model for health equity and innovation in post-conflict recovery.

Prof Binagwaho is also the Co-Founder and former Vice Chancellor of the University of Global Health Equity (UGHE) in Rwanda—an institution established to revolutionize health education by training health professionals who are deeply committed to equity, social justice, and community-centered care. Under her leadership, UGHE has become a beacon of transformative learning and African-led excellence in global health education.

Beyond her national achievements, Prof Binagwaho has been a vocal global advocate for decolonizing global health, promoting fairness in knowledge exchange, and ensuring African voices are at the forefront of setting global health agendas. Her academic and policy influence extends through her numerous publications, advisory roles with international health organizations, and her mentorship of young African professionals.

The African Academy of Sciences celebrates Professor Binagwaho’s remarkable achievement, which reflects the Academy’s mission to recognize, support, and amplify scientific excellence on the continent. Her recognition by the Academy of Public Health not only honours her individual accomplishments but also showcases the growing global impact of African-led science and leadership.