Science for Africa Foundation has announced that two Calestous Juma Science Leadership fellows, Prof. Collen Masimirembwa and Prof. Moses Madadi, have been listed in the New African Magazine among the 100 Most Influential Africans of 2024.
In a statement, the Science for Africa Foundation said the 100 Most Influential Africans of 2024 list features leaders from various fields, including business, civil society, creatives, public office, sports, and opinion shapers.
Masimirembwa, who recently received the global Pioneer Award in pharmacogenomics, at the Silicon Valley Precision Medicine World Conference Award and is to receive the Humboldt Research Award in Germany this month.
In his quest to establish a research ecosystem and centres of excellence across Africa, the Zimbabwean scientist founded the African Institute of Biomedical Science and Technology in 2002. His efforts have introduced and fostered a deeper understanding of African genomics and drug discovery, nurturing a generation of African scientists.
Masimirembwa is set to launch three centers of excellence in Zimbabwe, Kenya, and Nigeria. These centres will serve as hubs for cutting-edge research, training industry-focused scientists and forging strategic partnerships with key stakeholders – an ambitious initiative meant to create a thriving R&D biotechnology industry in Africa, fostering innovation and self-reliance in drug development.
Similarly, Prof. Moses Madadi, a champion of women’s health, was honoured for his work investigating the relationship between HIV infection and preterm delivery.
The Kenyan clinician-scientist is a passionate advocate for addressing postpartum hemorrhage, the leading cause of maternal mortality in Kenya.
In October 2024, Madadi successfully organised the first-ever Postpartum Hemorrhage Awareness Run – a 10K race featuring triple Olympic gold medalist Faith Kipyegon, Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary of Health, Debra Barasa, raising awareness and mobilising support for this critical issue.
Madadi, who also serves as the Honorary Secretary of the Kenya Obstetrical and Gynaecological Society, envisioned establishing a World Haemorrhage Day to galvanise global efforts to combat PPH.
He is described as a vocal champion for women’s health and continues to make significant strides in research, advocacy, data ecosystem, and innovation.
“We are thrilled to see two Calestous Juma Science Leadership Fellows recognised for their outstanding contributions to science and medicine in Africa. Their exemplary research in maternal health and genomic medicine is a testament to the power of investing in African talent and innovation,” said Chief Scientific Officer at the SFA Foundation, Dr Evelyn Gitau.
