Dr. Uche Ralph-Opara Named Chief Health Officer

Washington, DC (5 February 2024) – Project HOPE – the global health and humanitarian aid organization – proudly announces the appointment of Dr. Uche Ralph-Opara as Chief Health Officer. Dr Ralph-Opara, a medical doctor and global health expert, brings an impressive track record of nearly two decades of experience leading and implementing health and development programs on a global scale.  

In expressing her enthusiasm for this pivotal role, Dr. Ralph-Opara conveyed, “I am deeply honored to take on the responsibility of Project HOPE’s Chief Health Officer, particularly during this exciting phase of organizational growth and transformation. Having personally addressed and tackled global health challenges in Africa, Project HOPE’s unwavering commitment to expanding health access, promoting equity, and enhancing the quality of care resonates profoundly with me. I am eager to contribute to shaping and guiding our strategies for addressing health challenges across the globe.” 

Dr. Ralph-Opara commenced her journey with Project HOPE in January 2021 as the Country Director for Nigeria and Senior Advisor for health systems strengthening for a USAID-funded program aimed at supporting orphans and vulnerable children impacted by HIV/AIDS. In that capacity, she expanded Project HOPE’s initiatives in Nigeria, resulting in the successful implementation of three additional donor-funded projects addressing HIV/AIDS, maternal, newborn and child health, and non-communicable diseases (NCDs).  

In recognition of her exceptional contributions, Dr. Ralph-Opara was promoted to the role Deputy Regional Director for West Africa. In this position, she played a crucial role in spearheading technical and program development initiatives in Ghana, Sierra Leone, and Nigeria. Relocating from Nigeria to Washington, D.C., in 2022, Dr. Ralph-Opara assumed the position of Deputy Chief Health Officer in June 2023, showcasing her commitment to advancing Project HOPE’s global health initiatives. 

Rabih Torbay, Project HOPE’s CEO & President, commended Dr. Ralph-Opara’s impactful career, stating, “Throughout her career, Dr. Ralph-Opara has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to locally led development, expanding health equity, and implementing lifesaving health programs. Project HOPE considers itself profoundly fortunate to have her as our new Chief Health Officer where she is already hard at work elevating our program implementation and expanding our panel of technical experts.” 

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To schedule an interview, please contact media@projecthope.org