Tadataka “Tachi” Yamada, Venture Partner of Frazier Healthcare Partners and former President of Global Health at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, passed away on August 4th at his home in Seattle.

 “On behalf of the GHIT Board of Directors, we would like to extend our deepest condolences to Tachi’s family, and other friends. He was an extraordinary person and leader, who made an exceptional impact across all sectors, including academia, business, research and development, education, policy, and advocacy.” said Prof. Hiroki Nakatani, GHIT Board Chair and Representative Director.

“Dr. Yamada played a pivotal role in the conceptualization of GHIT. Together with Dr. BT Slingsby, GHIT Founding CEO, he created the GHIT’s concept: a matching fund designed to catalyze global health R&D from Japan through a unique partnership between industry, the Gates Foundation, and the Government of Japan. Since then, his strong passion and commitment to global health have inspired and motivated GHIT and stakeholders in Japan to accelerate product development for neglected patients across the globe. Dr. Yamada always reminded us of and emphasized a “sense of urgency” to save millions of lives in marginalized settings. GHIT board of directors and staff join with people around the world in mourning his loss.”

Dr. Yamada’s legacy has been recognized in Japan by a decoration of the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star in 2018 from Emperor Akihito, for his dedication and commitment to global health and the promotion and advancement of medical sciences and healthcare solutions both in Japan and in the US, and between Japan, the US, and developing countries. The loss of Dr. Yamada will be felt around the globe.