Zeba Siaanoi is an Advocacy Specialist with Malaria No More in Kenya. She has over 15 years of experience working on advocacy, campaigns and communications with leading international agencies based in Nairobi. As an advocacy specialist, she secures political and financial goodwill to end malaria.
She works mostly with county governments in Kenya. Zeba’s passion for health and her view that fixing health will fix other overall issues, which she believes is theoretically easier said than done, led her to pursue a career in the health field. As an advocacy specialist, Zeba has also previously advocated for other health agendas, besides Malaria.
What are you most proud of?
Working and shaping the malaria agenda in the Mombasa County of Kenya and securing high-level commitment to end malaria on the island by 2021 is something that I am proud of. Additionally, working with other influencers to amplify the malaria agenda in Kenya is another achievement – in Kenya we have partnered with the County First Ladies Association and work actively with the Kwale County First Lady to create platforms to end malaria.
What do you wish you had done differently?
Securing buy-in internally. Winning over hearts and minds. Giving voice and space to other opinions and being gracious about it. Humility is key.
What are some of the biggest challenges you have faced? How did you overcome them? What are some of the lessons learnt?
Advocacy is both proactive and reactive. Sometimes opportunities present themselves, which you had not prepared for. I have learnt to budget proactively for reactive situations so that one does not lose that opportunity. Always be prepared. At a minimum, have your elevator pitch and key messages ready at hand.
What advice do you have for other women in health?
Believe in yourself and what you are bringing to the platform. Invest in younger women to be better versions of themselves. Unlock doors for younger women.
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