Paying tribute to David Nabarro
The World Health Organization announced the death of Dr David Nabarro, a leading global health figure and former COVID-19 envoy, at age 75. WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed deep sorrow over his passing.
Dr David Nabarro, a prominent figure in global health and a former WHO Special Envoy on COVID-19, died at his home on 25 July at the age of 75. WHO described him as a champion of health equity and a respected mentor whose work spanned malaria control, humanitarian crises, and pandemic response. His leadership touched numerous lives across health, nutrition, and climate change sectors worldwide.
WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus issued a statement mourning Nabarro’s death, calling him a ‘great champion of global health’ and a ‘wise, generous mentor.’ The statement extended condolences to Nabarro’s family, friends, and colleagues, acknowledging his expertise, wisdom, and kindness. Nabarro held multiple leadership roles at WHO and the United Nations, including directing the Roll Back Malaria Project and serving as UN Senior Coordinator for Avian and Pandemic Influenza.
Nabarro’s career included senior positions at the UN, where he coordinated responses to food security, nutrition, and health crises such as the West Africa Ebola outbreak. In 2018, he received the World Food Prize for his leadership on nutrition. He also chaired WHO’s expert group on reforming outbreak and emergency work and co-chaired forums on climate change and health, contributing to global policy discussions.
Nabarro was knighted by King Charles III in 2023 for his contributions to global health. The 4SD Foundation, which he co-founded, announced his passing and shared a family statement expressing gratitude for the tributes received. A private funeral will be held on 4 August, followed by memorial services to honor his legacy across public health, food systems, and crisis response.