Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) alumna Dr Jennifer Njenga has been recognised internationally for her leadership in primary healthcare innovation and health systems transformation across four continents, reinforcing the university’s legacy of producing globally impactful health professionals.
Dr Njenga, who graduated with an MBChB from MEDUNSA, now Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University in 2002, before obtaining an MPH from the University of Auckland, a DrPH from Flinders University and a Certificate in Global Healthcare Leaders programme from Harvard Medical School, has built a 24-year career spanning Uganda, South Africa, Namibia, New Zealand, Australia, USA and Canada. Her work has consistently focused on strengthening primary healthcare systems, advancing maternal and child health, and improving equity in underserved communities.
Her previous appointment as Co-Chair of the International Expert Panel for Modernising Alberta’s Primary Care System marked a significant milestone in her career. The panel, convened by Alberta’s Ministry of Health, was tasked with developing strategic recommendations to improve access, integration, and sustainability within primary care.
Speaking on her approach to health systems transformation, Dr Njenga said: “Primary healthcare is the foundation of equitable societies. When we invest in integrated, community-centred systems, we are not only treating illness—we are building resilience for generations.”
She added that her work is driven by a commitment to vulnerable populations. “Whether in rural Uganda, rural Canada, or Indigenous migrant communities in New Zealand, the principles remain the same: dignity, access, and continuity of care must guide every health system decision.”
Dr Njenga is the Founder and CEO of Engage Global Health Ltd and BriJen, through which she leads global digital health equity initiatives, interdisciplinary collaboration, and leadership development programmes. Her work includes strategic partnerships with governments, academic institutions, and community organisations aimed at strengthening health systems and workforce capacity.
Senior Officer: Alumni Coordination at SMU, Benedict Masenamela, praised her achievements, stating: “Dr Njenga exemplifies the university’s vision of transforming health services through excellence and innovation. Her global leadership reflects the calibre of SMU alumni and their ability to influence health policy and practice internationally.”
In previous roles, she served as Manager of Clinical Services at Edmonton West Primary Care Network, Clinical Lead for eReferrals at Alberta Health Services, and Family Physician Liaison for Women and Children’s Health in New Zealand. She also served as the Physician Representative for Refugee Health within Alberta Health Services and was a member of the Alberta Coalition for Refugee Health. She remains actively involved in refugee and Indigenous health initiatives and continues to provide leadership through advisory and governance roles on several health boards, including HIV Edmonton, where she currently serves as Board Chair, and the Canadian Public Health Association, where she is a current Board Director.
Her contributions have earned her several accolades, including the Rosalind Smith Professional Award and the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal in 2022.
Beyond clinical leadership, Dr Njenga is also a published author and researcher, with work focusing on maternal obesity and healthcare policy. Her leadership continues to influence global conversations on health equity, systems redesign, and community-centred care.
Reflecting on her journey, she said: “My training at SMU laid the foundation for a lifelong commitment to service. I remain deeply connected to the values of equity, respect, and Ubuntu that shaped my early professional identity.”
SMU continues to celebrate its alumni who are shaping global health systems, with Dr Njenga standing as a testament to the university’s enduring impact on healthcare leadership and innovation worldwide.
By Tumelo Moila
