Dr. Ekua Agyemang appointed chief public health officer

Press Release

February 17, 2026

Iqaluit, Nunavut  – The Department of Health is pleased to announce the formal appointment of Dr. Ekua Agyemang as Nunavut’s chief public health officer (CPHO), effective immediately. Dr. Agyemang has served in the role in an acting capacity for the past 21 months, providing steady leadership and expert guidance.

“Dr. Agyemang has demonstrated exceptional professionalism, deep commitment to community well‑being and strong public health expertise,” said Minister of Health Janet Pitsiulaaq Brewster. “Her leadership is invaluable, and I am confident she will continue to advance public health protection and promotion across Nunavut.”

“Serving as Nunavut’s acting CPHO has shown me that true public health leadership is rooted in listening, partnership and cultural respect,” said Dr. Agyemang. “The progress we made from ending prolonged tuberculosis outbreaks to launching the territory’s first colorectal cancer screening program was made possible through trust, community engagement and the strength and resilience of Inuit communities.”

As CPHO, Dr. Agyemang is responsible for providing independent public health advice, overseeing disease prevention and health protection measures, and exercising statutory authorities under the Public Health Act. She is also the vice-president of the Canadian Society for Circumpolar Health.

Dr. Agyemang has gained experience working within Inuit knowledge frameworks. Her areas of expertise include environmental health and the prevention of infectious and chronic diseases with particular focus on climate‑driven health issues such as tuberculosis, zoonotic diseases and food and water security.

Contact

Charmaine Deogracias
Manager of Communications
Department of Health
867-975-5712
cdeogracias@gov.nu.ca

IHT4