Dr. Lilian Otiso is the Executive Director of LVCT Health, a leading Kenyan NGO in HIV, sexual and reproductive health, gender-based violence, maternal and child health, and health systems strengthening. She is a global health researcher with over 20 years of experience and has been recognized internationally, including as an Obama Foundation Leader: Africa Fellow (2018).
Professional Background
Executive Director, LVCT Health (2019–present)
Leads Kenya’s largest PEPFAR partner, managing grants worth over US$30 million annually,
Oversees a workforce of 450 permanent staff and 2,500 temporary staff.
Expanded LVCT Health’s research portfolio and strengthened its role in national and global health policy.
Director of Programs (2010–2019)
Managed HIV, SRH, MNCH, GBV, and community health programs. Ensured accountability, monitoring, and evaluation across projects.
Education & Research
PhD Candidate in Global Health – Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, UK.
Research focus: accountability for universal health coverage (UHC) among pregnant adolescents.
Published extensively in peer-reviewed journals and contributed to WHO guidelines.
Contributions & Leadership
Principal Investigator on multi-country, multi-year projects funded by PEPFAR, CDC, USAID, UKRI, NIHR, UN agencies, Global Fund, EJAF, Grand Challenges Research Fund.
Health Systems Global: Co-chaired the Thematic Working Group on Community Health.
Influences policy translation** with Kenya’s Ministry of Health and international partners.
Awards & Recognition
Trocaire Oscar Romero Award – for outstanding contributions to health and social justice.
Obama Foundation Leader: Africa Fellow (2018) – recognized for leadership in health systems and community impact.