The global health community is mourning the loss of Sir David Nunes Nabarro – a visionary leader, mentor, and advocate for health equity—who passed away at the age of 75. His legacy endures in the countless individuals and organizations he touched, inspired, and empowered across the world.
A Giant in Global Health and Sustainable Development
Sir David’s career was marked by extraordinary service. From leading the international response to pandemics such as Ebola and COVID-19 as the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Special Envoy, to championing nutrition and sustainable food systems at the United Nations, his passionate advocacy shaped public health policy for decades. He helped orchestrate worldwide responses to major health crises, including the bird flu and cholera, and played key roles in advancing food security and nutrition, most notably through the Scale Up Nutrition (SUN) Movement.
Knighted at Buckingham Palace in 2023 for his lifelong dedication to global health, Sir David’s impact stretched far beyond emergency response. He was a World Food Prize laureate, recognized for his tireless commitment to child nutrition and the fight to end hunger.
A Mentor to GCSAYN Executive Director Divine Ntiokam and a Champion for Youth
Among those profoundly influenced by Sir David was Divine Ntiokam, Founder and Executive Director of the Climate Smart Agriculture Youth Network Global (GCSAYN). Divine credits mentors like Sir David for helping him understand the critical importance of engaging youth in building sustainable and resilient food systems. Through his leadership, networks like GCSAYN have mobilized young people in over 100 countries to champion climate-smart agriculture, inclusivity, and the realization of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
As a member of the CSAYN Supporter, Sir David’s encouragement was pivotal—his example inspired Divine and his team to make youth voices central in global food system debates. Sir David’s unwavering belief in the potential of young leaders resonated in Divine’s work, from translating the Sustainable Development Goals into more than 60 languages to actively moderating high-level discussions at the World Food Prize Foundation’s Global Youth Initiative.
Sir David’s mentorship was not just professional, but deeply personal; he was known for his wisdom, kindness, and generous support for the next generation of leaders. His relationship with Divine stood as a testament to the power of compassionate guidance and shared vision.
A Partnership Rooted in Service and Shared Purpose
Together, Divine and Sir David championed greater inclusivity in agriculture and health. Their collaborative efforts advanced project incubation and support networks in Africa, empowering youth-led enterprises to reduce poverty and improve food security. In speeches and public forums, both have stressed the importance of putting young people, people with disabilities, indigenous peoples, and women at the centre of the movement to achieve the SDGs by 2030.
Carrying the Legacy Forward:
Reflecting on Sir David’s passing, Divine Ntiokam offers these words:
“Sir David’s belief in our ability to change the world will continue to inspire us. His mentorship was a guiding light—reminding us always to place people first, work for equity, and never tire of striving for the wellbeing of all. The seeds he planted, especially among youth leaders, will grow and flourish, fulfilling his lifelong mission to leave no one behind.”
Sir David Nabarro’s legacy will live on through all those he uplifted, especially young changemakers like Divine Ntiokam, who are now leading efforts for a healthier, more sustainable, and just world.
Divine Ntiokam warmly invites you to share any memories, stories, or photos on this tribute page, to celebrate and remember David: https://www.online-tribute.com/DrDavidNabarro