As 2020 approaches, senior figures from across government reflect on their highlights and challenges of 2019, look ahead to the next 12 months and share their favourite festive memories
What was your highlight of 2019?
My highlight was how the brilliant, dedicated, expert staff in DfID rose to the challenge of helping to end poverty, including through greater contributions to tackling climate change.
What has been the most significant change in your organisation this year?
2019 has been a year of significant change in DfID with three secretaries of state, two aid reviews, and a partridge in a pear tree.
What will be the biggest challenge of 2020 – and how are you preparing to meet it?
"2019 has been a year of significant change in DfID with three secretaries of state, two aid reviews, and a partridge in a pear tree"
The biggest challenge in 2020 will be to kick off the “decade of delivery” to achieve the Global Goals by 2030. We have some exciting set pieces to look forward to: the UK-Africa Investment Summit, the replenishment of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, and COP26.
Tell us a favourite festive memory from your youth.
As a child, Christmas was a time for family games. In particular, I remember the excitement of treasure hunts, looking for pieces of wrapping paper hidden round the house that spelt out a clue to find a present!