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. Type

This program, established in 2022 in honour 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.