After an inspiring and impactful career spanning 25 years, Dodoli Wilfred, a long-serving and highly respected WHO professional, has officially retired from the World Health Organization. On 29th April 2025, Dodoli marked his final day with the organization, closing a remarkable chapter defined by dedication, innovation, and unwavering commitment to public health. At the time of his retirement, he was based at the WHO Country Office in Botswana, where he served in a key Programme Management role.

Dodoli’s journey with WHO began in the early 2000s, when he joined the fight against malaria, an area he would become deeply immersed in for over two decades. From his early years as a national officer in malaria control to later roles in programme management, his passion and purpose remained steadfast: to save lives and improve health outcomes for communities most in need. Reflecting on his time with WHO, Dodoli shared: “It has been an extraordinary privilege to work alongside some of the most passionate, dedicated, and brilliant professionals from across the globe. Together, we have strived to improve health outcomes, tackled complex challenges, and celebrated remarkable milestones.” 

His contributions in Malawi were particularly notable, where his leadership and technical input strengthened malaria control efforts at both national and community levels. The experience, as he noted, shaped him both professionally and personally and left an enduring mark on his career. In more recent years, Dodoli brought his wealth of experience to WHO country offices in Botswana and Lesotho, playing a critical role in programme management. His final posting in Botswana proved especially fulfilling, not only for the professional accomplishments achieved but also for the spirit of collaboration that defined the team. “Your expertise, resilience, and collaborative spirit have been truly remarkable, and I am deeply grateful for the friendships, mentorship, and support I have received throughout my tenure,” he shared.

Dodoli also extended special thanks to the leadership of the Malawi WHO country office for their trust and support in shaping his journey. He acknowledged the pivotal role they played in nurturing his growth and enabling him to make meaningful contributions to public health. To his fellow Programme Management Officers (PMOs) and colleagues across all offices, Dodoli expressed deep gratitude: “While I cannot name each of you individually, please know that I deeply value and appreciate every single one of you. Your trust, teamwork, and encouragement have meant the world to me, and I will treasure these memories for years to come.”

Though he is stepping away from his official duties, Dodoli remains a committed advocate for WHO’s mission and the broader cause of global health. With pride in past achievements and optimism for the future, he departs with a sense of fulfillment and enduring solidarity with his former colleagues. “I wish you all continued success in serving our member states and advancing global health. The work we do is of immense importance, and I am confident that this network will continue to grow from strength to strength.”

As WHO bids farewell to Dodoli Wilfred, it also celebrates the legacy of a true public health champion whose service, leadership, and humanity have left an indelible imprint on the organization and the communities it serves.