Brazzaville – In a momentous occasion, the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Africa celebrated the inaugural cohort of recipients of the Mwele Malecela Mentorship (MMM) Programme for Women in Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) on August 25, 2023.
This program, established in 2022 in honor of the late Dr. Mwele Malecela, a pioneering figure in NTD research and an esteemed African scientist, is dedicated to nurturing mid-career African women in the field of NTDs.
Professor Lydia Mosi, Deputy Director in charge of Administration at the West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP), emerged as one of the esteemed recipients of this prestigious mentorship initiative. Her selection, among other notable women, recognizes her profound contributions and unwavering commitment to addressing neglected tropical diseases (NTD).
Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa, announced the launch of the MMM Programme as a tribute to the legacy of Dr. Mwele Malecela, who passed away the previous year. Dr. Malecela, renowned for her role as the first female director-general of Tanzania's National Institute for Medical Research and her pioneering work in NTDs, remains an inspiration for the next generation of female leaders in the field.
The MMM Programme is dedicated to empowering African women working in NTDs by removing barriers hindering their professional growth. This initiative aspires to transform them into influential advocates and leaders for NTD eradication, both locally and globally.
Dr. Moeti emphasized the rigorous selection process that the chosen mentees underwent, considering their achievements, potential, and commitment to continuous learning. She encouraged them to embrace this opportunity with an open mind, a thirst for knowledge, and a willingness to step out of their comfort zones.
The inaugural cohort consists of ten exceptional women who will each receive a stipend of US$ 15,000 for the year 2023 to support their leadership and skill development journeys. Among them, Professor Lydia Mosi's inclusion showcases her outstanding dedication to the field of NTDs.
This mentorship program, with long-term support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, will continue until 2030, reflecting Dr. Malecela's commitment to the 2030 WHO NTD roadmap. Additional support for the program comes from Menttium, the American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene, and the END Fund.
About the Mwele Malecela Mentorship Programme
The Mwele Malecela Mentorship Programme, launched on November 3, 2022, by Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa, represents a significant step towards empowering mid-career African women as champions in the fight against NTDs. In partnership with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the Menttium Corporation, the END Fund, and the American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene, this program, spanning from 2023 to 2030, provides mentorship, training, and networking opportunities. Aligned with the Global NTD roadmap, it aims to accelerate NTD elimination efforts and strengthen healthcare across Africa.
