Living with Sickle Cell Disease: A Story of Resilience and Hope

As she sits in her small apartment, surrounded by the vibrant colors of her artwork, 25-year-old Chikondi Mwamba exudes a sense of calm and determination. But behind her bright smile and infectious laugh lies a story of struggle and resilience.

Mukoka was diagnosed with sickle cell disease (SCD) at the age of six. Since then, she has faced countless hospitalizations, painful crises, and the stigma that often accompanies this genetic disorder.

"I remember feeling so alone and scared," Mukoka recalls. "People would say, 'Oh, you're sick, you can't do this or that.' But my parents were always there to encourage me, to tell me that I was capable of achieving anything I set my mind to."

Despite the challenges, Mukoka refused to let SCD define her. She pursued her passion for art, using her creativity as a way to cope with the pain and frustration. Today, her artwork is a testament to her strength and resilience.

"My art is my escape," Mukoka explains. "When I'm painting, I forget about the pain and the struggles. I'm free."

Mukoka's story is not unique. Thousands of people in Zambia live with SCD, facing similar challenges and stigma. 

But Mukoka s determination and refusal to give up have inspired countless others to do the same.

"She's a true warrior," says Dr. Bwalya ( name withheld), a hematologist at the University Teaching Hospital.

 "Mukoka's story is a reminder that SCD is not a death sentence. With proper care and management, people with SCD can lead active and fulfilling lives."

As Mukoka looks to the future, she remains committed to raising awareness about SCD and promoting education and understanding. She knows that by sharing her story, she can help break the stigma surrounding this disease and inspire others to do the same.

"I want people to know that SCD is not something to be ashamed of," Mukoka said 

"It's a part of who I am, but it doesn't define me. I am strong, I am resilient, and I am capable of achieving anything I set my mind to."

Facts About Sickle Cell Disease:

1. SCD is a genetic disorder that affects the production of hemoglobin.

2. the proper management and care, people with SCD can lead active and fulfilling lives.

1. Sickle Cell Disease Association of Zambia

2. Ministry of Health, Zambia

3. World Health Organization (WHO)

Photo caption: Given Mukoka a 25-year-old artist living with sickle cell disease, sits in her apartment surrounded by her vibrant artwork.

 BESTLIFE INSURANCE AND YANGO TO IMPROVE DRIVER'S SAFETY 

By Daily News Reporter 

Bestlife insurance and Yango has partnered to support and protect the drivers through their transportation yango clients.

Recently yango's drivers have passed set backs interms of drivers being kidnapped, accidents or killed during their transportation operation.

This lack of support has been closed through Bestlife insurance limited in partnership with Yango Zambia.

Speaking during the Memorandum of Understanding signing with YANGO, Bestlife insurance limited Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Christabel Michel stated that this is the shared commitment with Yango to protect safety of Yango drivers during operation as long as they are insured with bestlife insurance limited.

Michel also said that this to bridge the gaps which drivers face so that they can have a peace of mind in their operation activities.

And Yango Zambia Chief Executive Officer Kabanda Chewe added that this will ensure that all Yango drivers to be protected and safe so that Yango clients can fee safe as they are enjoying their ride.

She further urged Yango drivers to come and being covered by bestlife insurance limited through Yango initiative of insurance.

 Did you know that…

⚠️ Over 200 diseases are caused by eating contaminated food.

🥘 1 in 10 people worldwide fall ill from contaminated food each year.

👶🏽 40% of the foodborne disease burden is carried by children under 5.

💵 US$ 110 billion is lost each year in productivity and medical expenses resulting from unsafe food in low- and middle-income countries.

Foodborne illnesses are usually infectious or toxic in nature and caused by bacteria, viruses, parasites, or chemical substances entering the body through contaminated food.

💡 Access to sufficient amounts of safe and nutritious food is key to sustaining life and good health.

 

🍎 Safe food supplies also contribute to food and nutrition security, support national economies, trade and tourism, and underpin sustainable development.

Food safety is everyone’s business, here’s what you can do:

*Practice* safe food handling at home: keep it clean, separate raw and cooked food, cook food thoroughly, keep food at safe temperatures and use safe water and raw materials.

*Learn* how to keep food safe before, during, and after emergencies, such as floods, fires, natural disasters or the loss of power.  

*Know* how to report poor hygiene standards and misleading food labeling.

(WHO)

Harmonizing Veterinary Medicine Regulation in Southern Africa

By Daily News Reporter 

In a significant step towards harmonizing the regulation of veterinary medicinal products in Southern Africa, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) recently conducted its first physical joint assessment. 

This groundbreaking initiative, held in collaboration with the UK's Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD), aims to enhance the availability and accessibility of quality veterinary medicinal products across the region.

The joint assessment, as part of the Zambia , Zimbabwe, Botswana, Nambia, South Africa , Malawi and Tanzania ( ZAZIBONA) project, brought together regulatory experts from SADC Member States and the UK-VMD. Over  five (5) days, the team evaluated the regulatory framework, procedures, and capacity of participating countries in regulating veterinary medicinal products.

Speaking during the meeting Zambia Medicine Regulatory Authority ( ZAMRA) representing Director General, Director Finance Mr Mathews Banda stated that this initiative of collaboration among SADC counties will improve the access quality of veterinary medicine products in the region.

"This joint assessment marks a crucial milestone in our efforts to harmonize veterinary medicine regulation in Southern Africa," said Mr Banda said.

"By working together, we can ensure that our region has access to safe, effective, and quality veterinary medicinal products." Mr. Banda said.

The assessment team also evaluating compliance with regional and international standards. The team further shared best practices and experiences from the UK-VMD and other regions, discussing how to adapt and implement these in the SADC region.

"This collaboration with the UK-VMD has been invaluable," said mr Banda 

 "We have gained valuable insights into international best practices and are committed to implementing these in our own regulatory frameworks." He added.

And the joint assessment culminated in the development of an action plan and recommendations for improving the regulation of veterinary medicinal products in SADC Member States. 

This plan will guide future efforts to enhance regional cooperation, capacity building, and the sharing of best practices.

As the SADC region continues to work towards harmonizing veterinary medicine regulation, this joint assessment marks a significant step forward. 

By collaborating with international partners and sharing expertise, Southern Africa can ensure the availability of quality veterinary medicinal products, ultimately enhancing animal health, public health, and regional economic development.

The ZAZIBONA project aims to harmonize the registration of veterinary medicinal products across the SADC region. By streamlining regulatory processes and enhancing cooperation, ZAZIBONA seeks to improve the availability and accessibility of quality veterinary medicinal products.

 

ZATEX TO BOOST REVENUE FOR LOCAL TOURISM AND GLOBAL PARTNERSHIPS 

By Daily News Reporter 

The Zambia Travel EXPO ( ZATEX ) which is set to become the leading tourism event in Zambia, it's aim is to evolve into a globally recognized platform over the next five years.

This year's ZATEX is under the theme " Sustainable Tourism: Driving Inclusive Growth".

Speaking during the launch of ZATEX in Lusaka Ministry of Tourism Permanent Secretary Mr. Evans Muhanga stated that this will give opportunity to local tourism sector especially Small Business in the tourism sector and engaging the Ministry of Tourism.

He also stated that private sectors and public to start working together and ensure that the industry improve and grow.

He further added this Will boost revenue for local operators and enabling global partnerships.

And Minister of Tourism Rodney Sikumba said, this is a call to action and ensure that the sector explore to international and local tourists.

He add that it will attract to key buyers from international markets by improving the country's position in the global tourism industry and strengthen domestic tourism also by promoting sustainable growth in the sector.

Mr Rodney urged the private sectors in the sector to bring out those tourism attention such as lodges, Hotels and other facilities to attract investors.

 PMC TRANSFORMING LIVES THROUGH MEDIA REVOLUTION 

By Daily News Reporter 

Misinformation and sensationalism have dominated the media landscape through digital age,  and Population Media Center ( PMC ) has harnessed the power of storytelling using the media platforms such as radio, Social media, and entertainment education to challenge deep rooted cultural norms and tackle some of the country's most pressing health and social issues such as Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (  SGBV ) Family Planning and HIV/AIDS Treatment.

Speaking during at the stakeholders meeting under the theme "Innovative Communication For Impact" Population Media Center Country Director Charles Kalonga stated that PMC is empowering individuals to make decisions that improve their lives through creative and engaging storytelling programs under Population Media Center which has taken advantage of social media platforms to educate the communities.

Mr. Kalonga also added that this initiative has helped reduce teenage pregnancies, early marriages, increase update of long-term reversible contraceptive methods, and improve adherence to HIV treatment and prevention strategies.

He further stated that they is need to engage all stakeholders to fight this challenge affecting the communities among women and girls.

And Minister of Health Permanent Secretary Technical Services Dr. Kennedy Lishimpi stated that this initiative need to be used to demonstrate the power of mass media to shape public health outcomes.

Dr. Lishimpi added that health services are essential in the communities to reduce teenage pregnancies and health challenges by the community.

Meanwhile Population Media Center (PMC) President and CEO Margot Fahnestock added that PMC it's mission is to have a media which can inspire people to make choices that lead to healthier families and communities to be stronger through entertainment education content and addressing critical issues like population growth, gender equality and sustainable development and ensuring survivors receive the support they need.

She further urged all organisations to support the movement for social change through media driven advocacy and action.

And one of the beneficiaries of PMC's programs by the name of Kathrine Phiri a Grade 12 of Zamba Day School in Chadiza district of Zambia thanked the PMC program for supporting interms of education skills and knowledge.

Phiri who got pregnant when she was in grade 10 highlighted how PMC helped achieve her goal to equare quality education.

Through PMC Katherine released that education is key life despite financial status free education uplifted her life.

"People started laughing at me coz of my childhood pregnancy and stopped going to school but PMC program helped me to go back to school and acquire quality education so that I can support my child." Kathrine said.

Kathrine also urged other girls who have left out school to use these programs by PMC so that it can empower them.

And according to Ministry of Health's report shows that approximately 11% of adults aged 15 - 49 are living with HIV, with women affected at 14% compared to 7.5% of men. This prevalence is significantly higher in the urban areas at 15.9% than rural areas at 7.1% .

Meanwhile nearly 18% of women and 27% of men have been exposed to family planning messages through PMC media platforms demonstrating the power of mass media to shape public health outcomes.

 I NEED JUSTICE TO PRIVAIL......

HANGWEMU 

By Daily News Reporter 

Ruling United Party for National Development- UPND National Youth Chairperson for Finance and Mobilization Jonathan Hangwemu has urged Police in Monze District to  bring to book people that attacked him for immediately effect.

In December 2024 while parked at Choppies Shop in Monze around 19:00 to 20:00 hours, Mr. Hangwemu was brutally attacked by unknown criminals in Monze District  who made off with an undisclosed amount of money.

Mr. Hangwemu suffered severe injuries on the right eye and have been undergoing medical treatment in South Africa for the past one month now.

Speaking to Daily News Reporter after presenting  his medical report to Monze Police Station, Mr. Hangwemu stated that he wants justice to prevail in his case and that suspected attackers should be brought to book.

Mr. Hangwemu is hopeful that police officers handling his case will exercise high level of professionaliziam and diligently investigate the matter.

Mr. Hangwemu who is also a businessman explained that his business has suffered as he has been spending a lot of time traveling to South Africa for medical treatment adding that upto now he is not able to see following the same attack.

 Smart Zambia Institute and ZAMREN to Transform education sector into digital innovation 

By Daily News Reporter 

SMART Zambia and the Zambia Research and Education Network (ZAMREN) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at revolutionizing the education sector through digital innovation.

The partnership which seeks to bridge the digital divide in Zambia's education system, by ensuring that students across the country have equal access to quality educational content and resources. 

Through this partnership SMART Zambia and ZAMREN aim to create a vibrant ecosystem that fosters the growth of digital technologies, promotes e-government, and enhances the overall quality of life for students.

Speaking at the signing ceremony,  Smart Zambia Institute National Coordinator Mr. Percy Chinyama stated that this MoU agreement has come at a very correct and critical moment when when the institute is about to catapult in terms of digitization of the schools, generally the education sector.

Mr Chinyama also said that the areas of collaboration, including research and development, digital infrastructure development, capacity building and training, education sector support, and digital literacy and awareness.

He further stated that the partnership is critical and intentional, and that SMART Zambia sees it as part of the transformation of academia into practical industrial functionality. 

He noted that the agreement is significant, as it is in line with the dream of President HAKAINDE HICHILEMA to bring equality in the education sector adding that children in urban and rural areas can now be able to access similar lessons via digital means adding that this will enable the digitization of the education sector, starting from primary to university level, and promote equality in education.

And through working together and harnessing the power of technology,  this partnership will create a more equitable and quality education system for all Zambians.

Meanwhile Chairperson of the ZAMREN Board, Professor Mundia Muya, added that, the significant partnership between the Zambia Research and Education Network and SMART Zambia, through the signing of this MoU, marks a significant milestone in it's collective pursuit of harnessing the power of technology to drive socio-economic development and prosperity in Zambia.

Professor Muya also stressed that the partnership aims to create a vibrant ecosystem that fosters the growth of digital technologies, promotes e-government, and enhances the overall quality of life for students. 

He noted that the MoU outlines key areas of collaboration, including research and development, digital infrastructure development, capacity building and training, innovation and entrepreneurship, and digital literacy and awareness.

The signing of the MoU is a significant step towards achieving the Zambian government's vision of a digitally empowered education sector. 

With this partnership, SMART Zambia and ZAMREN are poised to drive meaningful impact and transform the lives of Zambian students.

 ZAMBIA'S DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION PROJECT GETS UNDERWAY

The Government of the Republic of Zambia and the World Bank have commenced the technical review of components under the Digital Zambia Acceleration Project (DZAP) which marks a significant step towards the country's digital transformation.

The four-day meeting, which kicked off today, the 3rd of February 2025, aims to utilise the multiphase programmatic approach under the Inclusive Digitalisation for Eastern and Southern Africa Program (IDEA). 

This approach is designed to support Zambia's efforts to accelerate its digital transformation and improve the lives of its citizens.

Speaking during his opening remarks, SMART Zambia National Coordinator Mr PERCY CHINYAMA emphasised the need for truthfulness and unity of purpose in implementing the project. 

"We have a task at hand, and every single one of us plays a critical role in achieving our goals," Mr CHINYAMA said.

Mr CHINYAMA highlighted the importance of the project, stating that it will enable Zambia to implement a digital ID system, making it easier for citizens to access essential services.

"We aim to ensure every Zambian has a digital ID and access to the internet, driving our country's digital transformation," he said.

Mr CHINYAMA urged all stakeholders to work together to ensure the project's success.

"We must collaborate and support each other to achieve our goals. This project is not just about technology; it's about transforming our country and improving the lives of our citizens," he said.

Representatives from various government institutions, the World Bank, and other stakeholders are attending the technical review meeting, which is expected to conclude on Thursday, February 6th, 2025, with a clear roadmap for the project's implementation.

The project's focus on digital infrastructure development will also help to bridge the digital divide in Zambia, ensuring that all citizens have access to the benefits of digital technology. This, in turn, will help drive economic growth, improve governance, and enhance Zambians' overall quality of life.

The DZAP project is a key component of Zambia's National Development Plan, which aims to transform the country into a prosperous middle-income nation by 2030. The project's success will be critical to achieving this goal and ensuring a brighter future for all Zambians.

 FOOTBALL CORNER, 2025 FAZ elective AGM set.

Martin Akende Writes:

...Call for Orderly Election Process Crucial for FAZ's Credibility...

On the 14th January, 2024, The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) Electoral Committee chairperson Ronald Hatoongo announced the electoral roadmap for the FAZ elections calendar and a build up to the March 29 Annual General Meeting.

The Electoral Committee provided a roadmap that will start with the filing of nominations on February 1, 2025. Nominations will close on February 7, and a two-day window has been provided for any clearance of possible outstanding matters.

I want to commend the FAZ Electoral Committee for keeping football stakeholders updated on the roadmap of the elections and also their commitment to holding the highest level of transparency in running this process. This is commendable.

According to the schedule, Southern Province will kick start the elections on March 15, 2025, while Lusaka, Central, North Western, and Copperbelt will hold their elective congresses on March 16, 17, 18, and 19, respectively.

The committee disclosed that the next cycle will see Luapula, Northern, Muchinga, Western, and Eastern holding their elective conferences on March 20, 21, 22, 25, and 27 in that order.

The committee called the provincial offices to step up in preparing the ground for free and fair elections. The provincial elections are as critical as the national election.

Secondly, as candidates prepare to file in for the nomination to be conducted between February 1, and 7, 2025, I appeal to aspiring candidates and general members to fully familiarize themselves with the FAZ and FIFA Statutes.

This is critical to ensure candidates and the general membership are familiar with the rules of the game to avoid aspiring candidates exhibiting high levels of ignorance.

Football enthusiast will agree with me in noting the association efforts and time devoted in familiarizing members with the FAZ and FIFA Statutes, this is commendable high level of transparence, accountability and fairness.

I only hope that candidates and the general membership understand eligibility for elections is determined by the constitution only. Let me state again that eligibility for FAZ elective positions is not determined by thugerism or rush to courts of law outside the FIFA auspices.

Please it is not a secret that the FAZ Constitution is aligned with the FIFA Constitution, the process done through an open process by the membership in 2017.

The current constitution was adopted to among other things reduce the electoral college from 350 to 86 and also pave way for decentralization.

I hope all candidates wishing to participate in the elections understand the statutes and should know by now that the nominations will run from February 1-7. The Electoral Committee will announce the successful candidates on February 17 while prospective candidates wishing to appeal can do so from February 17-22.

In conclusion I want to thank FAZ Electoral chairperson Ronald Hatoongo for reiterating his committee's position of not standing at nothing but delivering an independent and transparency process because members of this committee are coming from regulated professions. With this assurance, it means even those vying for the FAZ positions especially the president should demonstrate high levels of professionalism and maturity.

After the nominations are closed and a final list is announced, I will be among the football enthusiasts that will take time to study the manifestos of different candidates to ensure the best candidate is supported fully. Time for jokes and name calling in Football are long gone.

Martin Akende

Akendemartin33@gmail.com

Author is Football analyst, communication expert

media consultant @spider communication agency

 

SENATOR DR. RASHA KELEJ CEO OF MECRK FOUNDATION AND PRESIDENT AS OF THE MOST INFLUENTIAL AFRICAN WOMEN

 By Daily News Reporter

 

Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej, CEO of Merck Foundation and President of “More Than a Mother” Campaign has been recognized as one of the 100 Most Influential African Women 2024 for the sixth consecutive year, by a Leading African Rating Firm, Avance Media.

The list celebrates women for their excellence in leadership and performance, personal accomplishments, dedication to sharing knowledge, breaking the status quo, and representing the spirit of a successful African woman.

Merck Foundation CEO and President of “More Than a Mother Campaign”, Senator, Dr. Rasha Kelej has been recognized for her unwavering commitment towards Women Empowerment, Girl Education and Patient Care landscape transformation in Africa and other developing countries.

Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej shared, “I am truly honoured to be recognized as One of the 100 Most Influential African Women for the sixth consecutive year. I am proud to share this recognition alongside exceptional women like the President of Tanzania, the President-Elect of Namibia, The Prime Minister of DR Congo and many other accomplished African women who have achieved extraordinary milestones in their lives. Many congratulations to all!”

Following the announcement of the List of 100 Most Influential African Women, we turned to gain collective insights about Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej,

Senator Dr. Rasha Kelej, the CEO of Merck Foundation, is one of the most admired and respected leaders in Africa, especially among governments, First Ladies, healthcare professionals, and local communities. Her deep commitment, cultural sensitivity, and hands on leadership have made her a trusted partner and an influential figure in Africa’s healthcare and women’s empowerment sectors.

Dr. Rasha Kelej Is the Most Loved & Respected CEO in Africa Dr. Rasha Kelej is not just a CEO—she is a movement. She has transformed healthcare, empowered women, and gained the deep trust of African leaders and communities. Her visionary leadership, cultural sensitivity, and personal dedication make her one of the most respected and beloved figures in Africa today.

She Works Directly with African Presidents, First ladies, Governments and Dr. Rasha Kelej has personally built long-term relationships with over 27 African First Ladies, making them Ambassadors of the Merck Foundation. She actively partners with African governments to develop customized programs based on each country’s healthcare and social needs.

Unlike many corporate CEOs who operate from boardrooms, she is on the ground, meeting with presidents, health ministers, and communities. Why Governments Respect This?

 She doesn’t impose foreign solutions—she co-develops policies with governments. She ensures long-term commitment rather than one-time aid programs. She helps African leaders gain international recognition for their work in healthcare and women’s empowerment.

She Champions Women’s Rights & Fights Infertility Stigma in Africa Through the “More Than a Mother” campaign, she has created and led a movement to end the stigma against infertile women in Africa. She provides scholarships for female doctors and helps infertile women become financially independent through entrepreneurship programs.

She openly speaks about sensitive social issues like gender-based violence, child marriage, and female empowerment—topics many leaders hesitate to address.

Why Women Love & Respect Her? She is one of the only high-profile leaders actively fighting infertility stigma in Africa. She provides real solutions—not just awareness, but also business training and financial support for women and She gives African women a voice, empowering them to take charge of their health and careers. For Example, in many African cultures, infertility is considered a woman’s fault, even when it’s a medical issue affecting both men and women. Dr. Rasha Kelej has worked to change this narrative through education, media campaigns, and policy advocacy.

She Has provided over 2100 Scholarships to Doctors from 55 Countries in 44 critical and underserved medical specialities Under her leadership, the Merck Foundation has provided scholarships in 44 critical and underserved specialties including Diabetes, Endocrinology, Oncology, Cardiovascular, Fertility Care, Embryology, Sexual & Reproductive Medicine, Internal Medicine, Respiratory Medicine, Acute Medicine, Critical Care, Pediatric Emergency, Gastroenterology, Rheumatology, Clinical Psychiatry, Urology, Ophthalmology, General Surgery, Trauma & Orthopedic, Dermatology, Neonatal Care, Pain Management, Emergency & Resuscitation, Laparoscopic Surgical Skills, Clinical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases, Advanced Surgical Practice, Neuroimaging for Research and more.

Why Healthcare Leaders Admire Her? She creates long-term healthcare solutions, not just short-term aid. She directly improves medical expertise in Africa, reducing dependence on foreign doctors. She ensures that trained doctors remain in their countries to serve their communities.

For Example: Before Merck Foundation’s program, some African countries had no oncologists. Now, patients no longer have to travel abroad for cancer treatment.

She Engages with Local Communities, Not Just Governments Dr. Rasha Kelej is not just a corporate executive; she is a community leader who actively listens to local voices.

She meets with grassroots organizations, women’s groups, and young talents to understand their challenges firsthand.  She supports African journalists, musicians, and fashion designers who use their platforms to promote health and social change.

Why African Communities Love Her? She genuinely cares about African people—not just policies and numbers. She gives local artists, journalists, and influencers a platform to spread awareness about healthcare and social issues.  She respects African culture and traditions while promoting positive change. She Is a Hands-On, Passionate, and Charismatic Leader,

 Unlike many corporate leaders who delegate projects, Dr. Rasha Kelej personally oversees and leads many initiatives.

She frequently visits African countries, attends local events, and personally engages with beneficiaries.  Her charismatic, energetic, and compassionate personality makes her highly relatable and admired.

Why Leaders & People Connect with Her?

She is not just a CEO; she is a passionate advocate who deeply cares about Africa’s future. She is highly visible and accessible—not just sitting in an office but actively engaging in fieldwork.

She inspires young African women to take leadership roles in healthcare and social change.

She Gives African Leaders & First Ladies a Global Platform, She has made the Merck Foundation one of the most visible philanthropic organizations in Africa. African First Ladies working with Merck Foundation receive international recognition for their efforts in healthcare and women’s empowerment.

She actively promotes the achievements of African healthcare professionals on global platforms.

Why African Leaders Trust & Support Her?

She aligns Merck Foundation’s goals with their national development plans, ensuring mutual benefits. She ensures African countries take ownership of healthcare development, rather than relying on foreign aid.

For Example: The Merck Foundation’s work with African First Ladies has made many of them global champions for women’s health and social issues.

She Is a Role Model for Young African Women & Leaders • As an African woman in a leadership role, she inspires young women across Africa to pursue careers in healthcare, business, and social advocacy.

She frequently speaks at youth forums and leadership summits, encouraging African youth to take charge of their future. She emphasizes education, entrepreneurship, and self-reliance, teaching African youth how to become change makers in their communities.

Why Young Africans Admire Her?

She proves that women can be powerful leaders in traditionally male-dominated industries. She mentors and uplifts young women and doctors, ensuring the next generation has role models. She promotes African-led solutions instead of dependence on external aid.

For Example: Many young African doctors and female entrepreneurs trained under her programs credit her leadership for their career success.