L’ORÉAL-UNESCO FOR WOMEN IN SCIENCE I 2023

Young Talents Awards

SUB-SAHARAN
AFRICA

1

2

3

ABOUT THE

ABOUT

Fondation L’Oréal

UNESCOThe Fondation L’Oréal supports and empowers
women to shape their future and make a differencein society, focusing on three major areas: scientificresearch, inclusive beauty and climate action.

Since its creation in 1945, UNESCO, the United Nations
Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization,
has worked to create the conditions for dialogue
among civilizations, cultures and peoples, based on
respect for common values. UNESCO’s mission is tocontribute to the building of peace, the eradicationof poverty, sustainable development and interculturaldialogue through its unique expertise in education,science, culture, communication and information.
The Organization has two global priorities: Africa
and gender equality.

Since 1998, the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in
Science program has worked to empower more
women scientists to overcome barriers to progression
and participate in solving the great challenges of
our time, for the benefit of all. For 25 years, it has
supported more than 4,100 women researchers from
more than 110 countries, rewarding scientific excellence
and inspiring younger generations of women to pursue
science as a career.
Convinced that beauty contributes to the processof rebuilding lives, the Fondation L’Oréal helps
vulnerable women to improve their self-esteem
through free beauty and wellness treatments. It
also enables underprivileged women to gain accessto employment with dedicated vocational beauty
training. On average, around 16,000 people haveaccess to these free treatments every year and morethan 35,000 people have taken part in professional
beauty training, since the program began.
Finally, women are affected by persistent genderbased discrimination and inequalities, exacerbatedby climate change. While they are on the frontline of
the crisis, they remain under-represented in climate
decision-making. The Fondation L’Oréal’s Women andClimate program supports women who are developing
climate action projects addressing the urgent climate
crisis, and raises awareness of the importance ofgender-sensitive climate solutions.

4

UNESCO is the only UN specialized agency witha specific mandate in the sciences, symbolized
by the “S” in its acronym. Through its sciencerelated programs, UNESCO contributes to theimplementation of the United Nations Sustainable
Development Goals, helps developing countries build
their scientific and technological capacities, andsupports Member States in their efforts to developscience policies and programs. It also supports
Member States in their efforts to develop effective
public policies that integrate local and indigenous
knowledge systems.
UNESCO promotes scientific research and expertisein developing countries. The Organization leads
several intergovernmental programs on sustainable
management of freshwater, ocean and terrestrial
resources, biodiversity conservation, and the use ofscience to address climate change and disaster risk
reduction.

5

S U M M ARYEDITORIAL

P.10

KEY FIGURES

P.12

SOUTHERN AFRICA

P.14

Constance Chingwaru - Zimbabwe
Nthabeleng Hlapisi - Lesotho
Maria Nelago Kanyama - Namibia
Mesha Mbisana - Botswana
Felicidade Niquice - Mozambique
Bonolo Phinius - Botswana
Bhamini Sreekeessoon - Mauritius
CENTRAL AFRICA
Dairou Hadidjatou - Cameroon
Lydie Messado Kamga - Cameroon
Fanta Yadang Sabine Adeline - Cameroon
EAST AFRICA
Hemen Tesfaye Gelaw - Ethiopia
Cheryl Kerama - Kenya
Mwende Mbilo - Kenya
Naelijwa Mshanga - United Republic of Tanzania
Faith Njeru - Kenya
Devotha Godfrey Nyambo - United Republic of Tanzania
Grace Umutesi - Rwanda
Esther Uwimaana - Uganda
WEST AFRICA
Temitope Abiola - Nigeria
Ini Adinya - Nigeria
Bernice Konadu Agyeman - Ghana
Mary Amoako - Ghana
Dorcas Atibilla - Ghana
Pamela Borges - Cabo Verde
Kafayath Fabiyi - Benin
Jedidah Jacob - Nigeria
Aderonke Korede - Nigeria
Emma Edinam Kploanyi - Ghana
Fatou Lo Niang - Senegal
Rahimat Yakubu - Nigeria
6

P.16
P.17
P.18
P.19
P.20
P.21
P.22
P.24
P.26
P.27
P.28
P.30
P.32
P.33
P.34
P.35
P.36
P.37
P.38
P.39
P.40
P.42
P.43
P.44
P.45
P.46
P.47
P.48
P.49
P.50
P.51
P.52
P.53

7

Editorial andkey figures

89

E D ITO RI AL

Empowering women scientists
in Sub-Saharan Africa
is a collective responsibility

Africa is the continent with the lowest greenhousegas emissions, producing just 4% of global emissions.
However, it’s also the continent that suffers thegreatest consequences of climate disruption, and at
multiple levels, with impacts on people’s health, theenvironment, economies and society. Today more thanever, in a world in perpetual crisis, we must empower
all scientific talents to address the major challengesof the century.
Yet we are still far from achieving this – being awoman in science in Sub-Saharan Africa today means
being prepared to fight to pursue your career journey.
Our young talents’ profiles speak for themselves. All
too often, they have had to push to make their way ina predominantly male world, overcome family or social
prejudice from the youngest age, and experience
numerous instances of sexism or harassment ona daily basis, in order to become the accomplishedscientists they are today. Their resilience inspires us.
These brilliant scientists, Ph.D. students and postdoctoral researchers, are advancing diverse disciplines
such as biology, agronomy, physics, mathematics,
genetics and engineering. Residents of 17 countries
including Lesotho and Cabo Verde, represented
for the first time this year, they work every day to
improve the daily life of Africa’s people, whether
it’s from a health or environmental perspective.
Among these talented women are the biologist
Dairou Hadidjatou, a real pioneer in the treatment ofcardiovascular diseases in Cameroon, the genetician
Esther Uwimaana, who’s conducting research on
potential vaccines against tuberculosis, the physicist
Mwende Mbilo, who is innovating to create clean,sustainable energy solutions in Kenya, and manyothers. All of them are driven by the relentlessdesire to advance science and thereby the wholeof society, despite the obstacles that punctuate theirlife journey.
Highlighting their destinies is an absolute necessity
in a context where Africa today represents just 2.5%of scientists globally. How should we imagine thatyoung girls in Africa will enter into scientific careers,
while women researchers in their countries areinvisibilized by the media, scientific publications andinternational forums? The need for scientific rolemodels to inspire the young generations has neverbeen more pressing.

Neither Africa nor theworld can overcome
the environmental,
societal, health andgeopolitical crisesof our time without
one half of humanity.

For years, the Fondation L’Oréal has taken action bycreating the enabling conditions for these talents tomake their voices heard. For this 14th edition of the
Sub-Saharan Africa award, we are reinforcing ourcommitment by increasing the number of young talents
awarded from 20 to 30. These brilliant researchers will
benefit from four days of leadership training, with theaim of building their assertive communication andnegotiation skills, and strengthening their ability toreact effectively in situations of harassment or when
speaking publicly or with the media. Uniting these
women scientists, who have often lived situations of
profound solitude, also means providing them withthe opportunity to speak out and enabling them totake stock of the obstacles they have encountered.
Put simply, we are helping to equip them with thetools they need to break the glass ceiling and at lasttake their rightful place in the scientific community.
Enabling such talents to emerge onto the publicstage and be recognized for the excellence of theirwork requires urgent action on multiple levels. It’s a
responsibility that we must all take on – institutions,businesses, civil society and citizens, both men andwomen. Neither Africa nor the world can overcome
the environmental, societal, health and geopoliticalcrises of our time without one half of humanity.
Our 30 young talents represent a real source ofinspiration for every young girl who dreams of being awoman scientist. Let’s encourage them and support
them collectively, so that we can all be ready toaddress future challenges.

Alexandra Palt
Chief Executive Officer, Fondation L’Oréal

10112023 APPLICATIONS REVIEWEVALUATION PROCEDURE

PEER REVIEW

66 scientific experts

632

JURY

10 members

ELIGIBLE
APPLICATIONS

632 applications

483 Ph.D. students
149 postdoctoral students

140 shortlisted candidates

30 Young Talents

Jury chaired by theProfessor Aggrey AMBALI,
Program Funding Directorate
at the African Union
Development Agency(AUDA-NEPAD), South Africa

Formal sciences

Physicalsciences

REPARTITIONOF SCIENTIFIC DISCPLINES
AND LOCATIONS

6%Engineering sciences
and technology

12%
12%

70%

WINNERS 2023

Life and environmental
sciences

Eastern Africa

59%

30

32%

YOUNG TALENTS

4,6%

Western Africa

25 Ph.D. students
5 postdoctoral students

Central Africa

4%Southern Africa

REPARTITION OF SHORLISTED CANDIDATESBY SCIENTIFIC DISCIPLINES

14 YEARS

MORE THAN

211

OF PARTNERSHIPWOMEN RESEARCHERS

with UNESCO

awarded a grant and over
72 scientists involvedin the selection process

Engineering sciences
and technology

13

LAUREATESOF THE
INTERNATIONAL
AWARDS
distinguished
for the excellenceof their scientific work

12

Physical sciences

Formal sciences

10% 10%13%

67%Life and environmental
sciences

13

Southern
Africa1415

Constance Chingwaru

Nthabeleng Hlapisi

Z I M BABW E

L ES OTHO

Doctoral student in Biotechnology

Doctoral student in Medicinal Chemistry

LABORATORY: BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES LABORATORYLABORATORY: INORGANIC AND MATERIALS GROUPINSTITUTION: BINDURA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE EDUCATIONINSTITUTION: UNIVERSITY OF KWAZULU NATAL

Creating biopesticides from native plants
to protect maize crops

Developing innovative phototherapies
to treat cancer

Constance Chingwaru is rewarded for her groundbreaking work to create an effective biopesticide
to control fall armyworm in maize crops, using local plants in Zimbabwe. She has benefitted fromthe mentorship of her uncle, a science professor, and Ph.D. supervisor, whom she describes as a pillarof strength.

Nthabeleng Hlapisi is a doctoral student from Lesotho with an experience in mentoring and research.
Her research is based on medicinal chemistry in South Africa. She is rewarded for her work to improveexisting phototherapies to better treat cancer. Having made her way independently in science,
she actively supports young people in their career journeys.

How did your interest in science begin?

How did your interest in science begin?

My uncle’s research on the application of natural
products in drug discovery inspired my scientificjourney, prompting me to work in the same
research area. He taught me how to conduct
research, publish academic papers, and apply forfunding. I dream of contributing to health sciences
through drug discovery, mining novel antimicrobial
agents from natural products.

Could you present your research and its
practical applications?
I’m developing an innovative biopesticide fromlocally accessible native plants to help control
fall armyworm – which poses a significant foodsecurity risk in Sub-Saharan Africa – in maize.
Once finalized, the solution could be part of an
integrated pest management strategy withpotential for commercialization and export
locally and regionally. It would also represent a
good alternative to synthetic pesticides, helping
smallholder farmers to save costs and adopt
more sustainable practices.

16

What does being a woman in science mean
to you?
I am a pioneer, a torch bearer, and represent girls
and women in my country and continent who
have a passion for science. Women are making
great scientific strides and occupying leadership
positions. In Zimbabwe, we say ‘musha mukadzi’,meaning a ‘woman makes a home’. Empowering
more women scientists will provide role models foryoung women, inspiring them to pursue scientificcareers, while increasing the number of solutions
that benefit society and establishing women as
important members of their communities.

I am a pioneer, a torch
bearer, and represent
girls and women who havea passion for science.

I loved science at school and felt empowered byreading about interesting discoveries and themysteries of the universe. I was also a science clubpresident. Later, I attended a funeral of a friend’s
mother who had died of HIV, with minimal
understanding of the virus. I promised myself thatI’d become a scientist to help others in finding
medical remedies.

Could you present your research and its
practical applications?
I’m combining photodynamic (PDT) and photothermal therapy (PTT) to deliver effective, lessinvasive cancer treatment solutions. For example,
I’m exploring the potential of plant-mediatedsynthesized nanoparticles to produce localized
heat, affecting only the tumor cells. I’m also using
photosensitizers that generate reactive singlet
oxygen, which in turn kills malignant cells. The
combination therapy of PTT and PDT enhances
the efficacy and biocompatibility of treatment,
while reducing any potential side effects.

What does being a woman in science mean
to you?
It’s a great achievement, an honor and a journey ofcontinuous growth. I am critical thinker, excellent,smart and resilient, hard-working and innovative,
while also feminine. I want to help women rise up
in science, building the foundations for them toprosper, collaborate and create the solutions that
Africa needs, including through mentorship. I findgreat meaning in the fact that women in science
represent empowerment, tenacity, and the quest
for knowledge.

I dream that we could harness
sustainable methods and plant
mediated medicines to findaffordable, accessible cures fordiseases across Africa.
17

Maria Nelago Kanyama

Mesha Mbisana

NAM I BI A

BOTS WANA

Doctoral student in Artificial Intelligence (AI)Doctoral student in Analytical Chemistry

LABORATORY: DIGITAL FORENSICS AND INFORMATION SECURITY (DFIS) RESEARCH CLUSTERLABORATORY: CHEMISTRY DEPARTMENTINSTITUTION: NAMIBIA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGYINSTITUTION: UNIVERSITY OF BOTSWANA

Harnessing artificial intelligenceto fight water scarcity

Improving food safety to promote better health in Africa

Maria Nelago Kanyama is recognized for forging ahead with research to leverage technologies such asmachine learning to detect non-revenue water (which is lost before it reaches the customer) and tackle
the issue of water scarcity in Namibia and beyond. She has embraced the challenges of being a woman
in science as catalysts for personal growth and innovation, and is working to transform groundbreaking
ideas into tangible realities, while making a lasting impact on the global water scarcity crisis.

How did your interest in science begin?
My interest in science began at a young age,
sparked by my strong aptitude for science subjects. This led me to seize an opportunity to study
electronics and telecommunications engineering
provided by a Namibian telecommunications
company. After completing my degree, myfascination with smart networks continued togrow, motivating me to expand my studies toencompass machine learning and anomaly
detection, which have become integral
components of my scientific journey.

Could you present your research and its
practical applications?
My research employs cutting-edge technologies,
including the internet of things, machine learningand blockchain, in order to combat water scarcity
in Central Namibia. These technologies enable
real time monitoring of water distribution andconsumption, promptly detect leaks, water
meter tampering and water theft. By optimizing
water management, enhancing transparency
and reducing losses, I’m addressing immediate18

supply challenges and setting a precedent forsustainable resource management, contributing
to global water scarcity solutions.

What does being a woman in science mean
to you?
Breaking barriers, igniting change and paving
the way for innovation. My career has been
an exhilarating odyssey, filled with boundlessexcitement and intellectual fulfillment, and mysuccess inspires me to empower my fellow womenin science. Together, we can create a vibrant,
inclusive community that thrives on diversity,
unlocks women’s potential to drive progress andpropels humanity forward.

My success inspires me to empower
my fellow women in science. Together,
we can create a vibrant, inclusive
community that thrives on diversity.

Mesha Mbisana is rewarded for her work to improve the safety of food crops such as maize and sorghum
by removing harmful toxins, in order to improve health in Botswana’s communities.

How did your interest in science begin?
My interest in science began in secondary school,
when my teachers inspired me to excel andeventually choose a career in science. My foodsafety research was promoted by the support andmentorship of my supervisor, Dr. Dikabo Mogopodi
during an undergarduate project.

Could you present your research and its
practical applications?
I’m researching the development of simple, effective and sustainable methods to analyze andremove mycotoxins (toxic compounds naturally
produced by certain types of fungi) from foodsuch as maize and sorghum. This involves the useof synthetic polymers and coal fly ash to absorb
the toxins. My research represents a small step
towards the dream of healthy, nutritious andsustainable food resources for Africa.

What does being a woman in science mean
to you?
I am a testament to all those women who havewalked before me, influenced me directly andindirectly. Broader initiatives must be taken toencourage women to pursue careers in science,and I believe it is my duty to inspire other women.
With an equal representation of men and women,
we will harness the full potential of scientific talent,
improving the quality and impact of scientificadvances, while improving economic growth andincreasing public trust in our discoveries.

With an equal representation ofmen and women, we will harness
the full potential of scientifictalent, improving the quality andimpact of scientific advances.

19Felicidade Niquice

Bonolo Phinius

MOZ A M BIQ U EBOTS WANA

Doctoral student in Occupational Safety and Health

Doctoral student in Infectious Diseases

LABORATORY: INSTITUTO NACIONAL DE SAÚDE

LABORATORY: BOTSWANA HARVARD HIV REFERENCE LABORATORYINSTITUTION: UNIVERSITY OF PORTO, PORTUGALINSTITUTION: BOTSWANA HARVARD HEALTH PARTNERSHIP; UNIVERSITY OF BOTSWANA

Promoting occupational health and safety
in Mozambique’s hospitals

Shining a light on pathways to fighthepatitis B in Botswana

Felicidade Niquice is a doctoral student and medical doctor from Mozambique, pursuing researchin occupational safety and health. In particular, she is rewarded for her work to promote safer working
conditions in the country’s hospitals and thereby strengthen its healthcare. She is inspired by helping
her patients and giving back to her community.

Bonolo Phinius is rewarded for her work to shine a light on the prevalence of the hepatitis B virus(HBV) in Botswana, where a lack of research on the disease has prevented progress on treatment andprevention. Her circle of mentors and supporters has been integral to navigating her research journey
and achieving a work-life balance.

How did your interest in science begin?

How did your interest in science begin?

I have always wanted to be a medical doctor,
ever since I was at school. The first time I saw thepeel of an onion under a microscope consolidated
my desire to pursue science. I also had inspiring
teachers who encouraged me to dream.

Could you present your research and its
practical applications?
As the first medical doctor to pursue a Ph.D. in
Occupational Health and Safety in Mozambique,I am researching hospital working conditions in
the country’s Inhambane province. I’m studying
healthcare workers knowledge, attitudes andpractices around bloodborne diseases mainly
Hepatitis B, C and HIV, assessing their quality ofsleep and correlating my findings with instancesof occupational accidents. I will also collect blood
samples (from the healthcare workers) to testfor Hepatitis B and C and HIV. I hope that these
insights will inform hospital health and safety
policies in Mozambique and beyond.

20

What does being a woman in science mean
to you?
As a woman, I bring a different perspective toscience and innovation. And I also have a duty topave the way for girls to feel inspired and join us
on this journey. I love being a woman in science.
I am increasingly in contact with phenomenalchange-makers to help achieve a sustainable
world. Together, we are breaking the glass ceilingand giving back to our communities. We mustensure that girls are more aware of pioneering
women scientists and empower them to pursue
a career in science.

The first time I saw
the peel of an onion undera microscope consolidated
my desire to pursue science.

With an inquisitive mind, I followed a scientificpath from an early age, enjoying mathematics,
chemistry and biology. I was fortunate to be
encouraged by family, friends and teachers.
Learning more about infectious, incurable
diseases that impact people’s quality of life
inspired me to dream of closing the gaps inresearch to find a cure.

Could you present your research and its
practical applications?
The lack of nationally representative HBV data
in Botswana catalyzed my journey to determine
hepatitis B virus (HBV) prevalence and diversity inmy country. I’m studying participants in 30 ruraland peri-urban communities in Botswana, someof which are understudied. My findings haveidentified potential HBV hotspots and may guidepolicy on prevention strategies.

What does being a woman in science mean
to you?
I’m contributing to closing the gender gap inscience and empowering other women throughshared experiences. It brings me joy to pushboundaries and excel in my field. Women scientists
must continue to be activists, breaking barriers
with their achievements and pursuing their
passion with the utmost persistence. Gradually,
their efforts are bearing fruit. By reaching genderequality, we will encourage more brilliant minds
that could contribute to solving the world’s greatchallenges.

Women scientists must continue
to be activists, breaking barriers
with their achievements andpursuing their passion withthe utmost persistence.
21

Bhamini Sreekeessoon
M AU RI T IU S

Doctoral student in Electrical and Electronic Engineering
LABORATORY & INSTITUTION: UNIVERSITÉ DES MASCAREIGNESRESEARCH LABORATORY

Harnessing tidal energy to power Mauritius’ future
Bhamini Sreekeessoon is awarded for her work to promote marine renewable technologies in Mauritiusby harnessing the island’s tidal energy to help ensure a cleaner, more sustainable future. Her scientificjourney has been supported by her family, and in 2021, she represented her Mauritius at ‘MT180’ in Paris,
where doctoral students present their research to the public.

How did your interest in science begin?
I’ve always had an inquisitive mind, and am
particularly curious about nature and technologies. I had an encyclopedia set during mychildhood, and I was fascinated by the scientificdiscoveries that have revolutionized humanity.
As a young student, I looked forward to solving
challenges and wanted to pursue science asa career.

Could you present your research and its
practical applications?
I’m assessing the potential of marine renewable
technologies in Mauritius. This involves measuring
wave heights and time periods at various
locations around the island for different seasons.
I analyze the data with wave power equations,and I am implementing a laboratory model ofa wave energy converter. Tidal energy stands tomake a significant contribution to the island’s
clean energy transition, yet has not been fully
explored. My findings could influence policy
makers to invest in marine renewables.

22

What does being a woman in science mean
to you?
Science and technology are changing the world
around us, and there are so many opportunities
for women scientists. However, the lack of genderequality in science continues to hinder sustainable
development. Today, Africa is at a crossroads
whereby innovators, scientists and engineers
must solve issues related to climate change, foodinsecurity and disease. Women scientists areplaying a vital role in promoting new solutions,
expanding the scope of research and contributing
to the continent’s transformation.

Science and technology arechanging the world around us, andthere are so many opportunities
for women scientists.

23

CentralAfrica24

25

Dairou Hadidjatou

Lydie Messado Kamga

C AM E RO O N

CAM ERO O N

Doctoral student in Cell Physiology

Doctoral student in Ecology

LABORATORY: PHARMACOLOGY AND DRUG DISCOVERYLABORATORY: PLANT SYSTEMATICS, BOTANY AND ECOLOGY LABORATORY, HIGHER TEACHERS’ TRAINING COLLEGE

INSTITUTION: INSTITUTE OF MEDICAL RESEARCH AND MEDICINAL PLANTS STUDIESINSTITUTION: UNIVERSITY OF YAOUNDÉ I; BOTANY AND MODELINGOF PLANT ARCHITECTURE AND VEGETATION, IRD FRANCE

Harnessing the power of nature plants
to treat cardiovascular disease

Conserving orchids in the Cameroon rainforests

Dairou Hadidjatou is awarded for her pioneering biology research in Cameroon, where she is exploring
the potential of the native Garcinia kola plant to help treat cardiovascular diseases. She has overcome
traditional views in her community to pursue her scientific studies, demonstrating to her colleagues andsociety that women can maintain their role in the community and excel as scientists.

Lydie Messado Kamga is awarded for her research to conserve tropical epiphytic angraecoid orchids.
She has overcome challenges including the physical effort of collecting data in Cameroon’s rainforest,
field logistics and a lack of sufficient funding, laboratories and equipment to persevere with herscientific journey.

How did your interest in science begin?

How did your interest in science begin?

My interest in science emerged in my childhood.
My father was a veterinary doctor and we had
sheep at home. One day, he wasn’t there andI had to deliver a lamb by myself. Since then,I have been passionate about biology. It’s an
exciting and attractive field and I knew that
I would make it my profession.

Could you present your research and its
practical applications?
My research concerns the elucidation of themolecular antiatherogenic mechanism (ability tounblock arteries) of Garcinia kola (an edible seedfound in Cameroon and other African countries).
I aim to demonstrate how it can prevent, delay
or limit lipid accumulation in blood vessels. Native
to forest areas, the plant is easily accessible tolocal people, providing a potentially affordable
solution. This study will inform the improvementof strategies to harness the properties of plants
to manage cardiovascular diseases.

26

What does being a woman in science mean
to you?
It’s a great responsibility, involving dedication,
self-confidence and the ability to push your limits,
while changing mindsets and empowering more
women to become scientists. Gender equality inscience will increase research quality and economic prosperity, women scientists have a criticalrole to play in contributing to the transformationand development of Africa by becoming scientificleaders.

Women scientists havea critical role to playin contributing to thetransformation anddevelopment of Africa.

Scientific subjects were my favorite at school as
I initially wanted to be a medical doctor. I was also
encouraged by my mother and elder sister.
My current research was inspired by an internshipon orchids. I couldn’t resist their fragrances fromour first encounter, and wanted to explore theirunique nature.

Could you present your research and its practical applications?
My goal is to promote the conservation
management of biodiversity to help secure asustainable future for next generations. My
research provides new pollination systems, which
are vital to understanding orchid reproductionand ensuring the survival of these plants
and their pollinators. It also provides the firstdescriptions of floral scents of most tropicalepiphytic angraecoid orchids which can be usedin the cosmetic, perfumery, pharmaceutical,
therapeutic, psychological, food and beverageindustries.

What does being a woman in science mean
to you?
To me, it means being a role model and mentor
for women in research, encouraging each otherto thrive despite social barriers, discriminationand cultural responsibilities, as we find solutions
to help improve our environment. Women are
breaking gender stereotypes and demonstratingthat we can succeed and be good leaders indiverse fields. Now, we need more support
networks to help women balance work andfamily life, a complete mindset shift in society
and collaborations between younger womenand potential role models if we want to empower
more women to study science.

Now, we need more support
networks to help women balance
work and family life, and acomplete mindset shift in society.
27Fanta Yadang Sabine Adeline
C AM E RO O N

Post-doctoral researcher in Neuroscience
LABORATORY: PHARMACOLOGY AND DRUG DISCOVERYINSTITUTION: INSTITUTE OF MEDICAL RESEARCH AND MEDICINAL PLANTS STUDIES

Exploring medicinal solutions
to neurogenerative diseases
Fanta Yadang is rewarded for her research into medicinal plants to help cure Alzheimer’s disease.
In a region where girls are not encouraged to go to school, she has risen up to challenge stereotypes
and overcome workplace discrimination, forging a path to scientific excellence. She is determinedto persevere with her dreams and set an example for girls in Cameroon and beyond.

How did your interest in science begin?
I was fascinated by science at an early age, andbiology always raised my curiosity. I developed aninterest in neuroscience during my postgraduate
study.

28

What does being a woman in science mean
to you?

Could you present your research and its practical applications?

African women scientists are entrepreneurial andresourceful. I am following my curiosity and passion, pursuing a dynamic career with challenging
goals, and finding creative approaches to promoting wellbeing in my community through scientificknowledge. Africa’s future is in the hands of itsscientists.

My research is motivated by the need to better
understand the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Alzheimer’s disease
and discover a novel source of therapy. My
investigations include changes in synaptic transmission, which can lead to pathways involvedin aging and neurodegenerative diseases, such as
memory impairment, molecular dysfunction, neuroinflammation and oxidative stress. I evaluate
the neuroprotective and therapeutic properties of
medicinal plants used in African pharmacopeia
to help prevent illness and improve quality of life.

Africa’s future
is in the hands of
its scientists.
29

East
Africa30

31

Hemen Tesfaye Gelaw

Cheryl Kerama

E T HIO P I A

KENYADoctoral student in Microbiology

Doctoral student in Public and Environmental Health

LABORATORY: BIO-INSTRUMENTATIONINSTITUTION: ADDIS ABABA UNIVERSITYLABORATORY: CENTRE FOR RESPIRATORY DISEASES RESEARCH-KENYA MEDICAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE,
UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON-KENYA (UW-K)
INSTITUTION: KAVI-INSTITUTE OF CLINICAL RESEARCH, UNIVERSITY OF NAIROBIFighting antimicrobial resistance in food supply chains

Exploring how sugar regulation impacts tuberculosis

Hemen Tesfaye Gelaw is rewarded for her work to prevent antimicrobial resistance by investigating
pathogenic bacteria found in agricultural supply chains. Based in Ethiopia, she is overcoming a lack oflaboratory equipment and chemicals by leveraging her versatility collaborating and learn new waysof conducting experiments.

Cheryl Kerama is recognized for her original gene discovery work in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis(a life-threatening and currently incurable lung disease) and highlighting the influence of dysglycaemia(abnormal sugar regulation) on the development of tuberculosis (TB) with and without HIV co-infection.
Her findings also demonstrate its economic impact in low to middle income countries and have the power
to shape health policy, helping to prevent more people from developing the illness in Kenya and beyond.

How did your interest in science begin?

How did your interest in science begin?

As a child, I was fascinated by experimental scienceclasses. I was also encouraged by my father andmy sister, who is a medical parasitologist and still
acts as my mentor, giving me career advice andencouragement. Drug resistance is now a major
challenge, and drug-resistant microbes have beenfound in agricultural products consumed bypeople. My work is motivated by an ambition tofind a solution and protect lives.

Could you present your research and its
practical applications?
My research generates information about the
antimicrobial resistance profiles of the enterobacteriaceae family found in irrigation water,
soil and certain fresh produce supply chains. My
findings will enable more sustainable practices
and inform environmental policy-makers andother stakeholders. I hope to witness the development of a low cost medication to address
resistant pathogenic organisms and eliminate
the global public health threat..

32

What does being a woman in science mean
to you?
It’s a great accomplishment - being one of the
few female scientists gives me a sense of empowerment and motivates me to pave the way
for future generations. In addition to overcoming
the deeply rooted cultural bias in African society,we need more training to equip women withleadership skills and build their confidence. Genderequality in science will help ensure the protectionof our environment, transform our food system,
improve health and alleviate poverty.

Being one of the few female
scientists gives me a senseof empowerment andmotivates me to pave theway for future generations.

Playing outside at an early age, I experienced
environmental allergies and almost lost my legs toa grass allergy, so I was determined to pursue
science, particularly immunology. I want to reduce
the gap between scientific discovery andimplementation.

Could you present your research and its
practical applications?
With a high rate of undiagnosed diabetes in SubSaharan Africa, I am exploring the relationshipbetween non-communicable diseases (NCDs),
particularly dysglycaemia, TB and HIV. Throughan international research collaboration, I haveled a TB prevalence survey with the Ministry of
Health, assessing more than 6,000 people in
Kenya. Our results have the potential to create aminimum care package and reduce health costs.

What does being a woman in science mean
to you?
Women in science are like a lotus flower, majesticin their petals, yet flourishing in mud. We face
the multiple challenges in our way with amazing
resilience. We need to address the root causes
preventing women scientists from advancing
in their careers. Science thrives on diversity andthe more inclusive we are, the faster we cansolve Africa’s problems by Africa and for Africa.
I want to inspire young girls and boys, while also
encouraging my daughter as her mother andmentor, by going boldly where it is uncomfortable
to go.

Science thrives on diversity andthe more inclusive we are, thefaster we can solve Africa’s
problems by Africa and for Africa.

33

Mwende Mbilo
K E NYAU NI T ED

REPU BL I C

O F TANZAN IA

Doctoral student in Condensed Matter Physics

Doctoral student in Nutrition and Dietetics

LABORATORY: DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICSINSTITUTION: UNIVERSITY OF NAIROBIINSTITUTION: NELSON MANDELA AFRICAN INSTITUTIONOF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Innovating to improvesolar energy solutions in Kenya

Promoting better nutrition
among women and children

Mwende Mbilo is a doctoral student innovating to improve the efficiency of organic solar cells in orderto bring more sustainable and reliable clean energy solutions to people in her home nation of Kenya.
She is boldly overcoming the challenge of gender inequality in the workplace and determined to supportand encourage her fellow women scientists.

Naelijwa Mshanga is a doctoral student researching the relationship between toxins found in foods
and nutritional deficiencies among children in United Republic of Tanzania, aiming to improve foodsafety and nutritional adequacy. Determined to pursue science at a higher level, she overcame
the lack of science teachers at her school by seeking tuition to pass the national exams which led herto the university.

When did your interest in science begin?

How did your interest in science begin?

My interest in science was influenced by myparents, who were science teachers, particularly
my father, who encouraged me to be moreadventurous in my exploration of the world. I was
inspired to begin my research when solar energy
industries emerged in Kenya to provide energy
access to underserved, rural and remote regions.

What does being a woman in science mean
to you?
I’m in a good position to encourage and empower
African women scientists through clean energy
solutions. Women in Africa must be involved
in solving and making decisions on other issues
disproportionately affecting girls and women,such as food security, health and literacy.

Could you present your research and its
practical applications?
I’m striving to uncover a solution to unreliable andlow energy production in organic solar cells (which
use sunlight absorption materials entirely basedon organic semiconductors such as polymers,
as opposed to the inorganic crystalline silicon
used in conventional solar cells). The innovation
I’m pursuing is combining new strategies andaffordable materials into existing cells to extend
their lifetime and improve performance. I dreamof harnessing an inexhaustible energy source toincrease quality of life in our communities.

34

Naelijwa Mshanga

I dream of an
inexhaustible energy
source to increase
quality of life in ourcommunities.

My father cultivated my interest in science at an
early age by buying scientific storybooks andteaching me chemistry during school holidays.
He inspired me to believe that I could achieve
anything. I later developed a passion for science,
particularly nutrition, and determined to dedicate
my career to research that could help prevent
diseases.

Could you present your research and its
practical applications?
I am exploring the relationship between Tanzanian children’s exposure to aflatoxins (toxins
produced by certain fungi found on crops suchas maize, peanuts, cotton, and tree nuts) andmicronutrient deficiencies. In this way, I hope tohelp influence policy on (improving nutritional
status in women and children). My scientific
dream is to create a nano-iron supplement that
goes directly to the spleen and red blood cells toprevent iron deficiency in children and women of
reproductive age.

What does being a woman in science mean
to you?
Bringing the scientific community, a step closer
to bridging the gender equality gap. In Africa, it’senabling me to inspire the next generations ofgirls to pursue science, so they can contribute fully
to solving the challenges of climate change, foodsecurity and sustainable agriculture. Men havea vital role to play in encouraging African girls
to study science, while women must continue todemonstrate that a career in science is possible.

Men have a vitalrole to play inencouraging African
girls to study science.
35

Faith Njeru
K E NYA

Doctoral student in Food Security and Agribusiness

U NI T ED

REPU BL I C

O F TANZAN IA

Post-doctoral researcher in Automation and Control Systems

LABORATORY: SACIDS MOLECULAR LABORATORYLABORATORY: AFRICA ANGLOPHONE MULTI-DISCIPLINARY RESEARCH LABORATORYINSTITUTION: SOKOINE UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURE, UNITED REPUBLIC OF TANZANIAINSTITUTION: NELSON MANDELA AFRICAN INSTITUTION OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Developing novel diagnostics
to conserve Kenya’s maize crops

Leveraging machine learning
to prevent infectious disease in livestock

Faith Njeru is using nanobodies derived from the serum of camelids (the mammal family that includes
camels and llamas) to help control a viral disease affecting maize plants in East Africa and beyond.
Based in Kenya, she has overcome low salaries, short-term contracts and a lack of funding andequipment to persevere with her studies.

Devotha Godfrey Nyambo is rewarded for her work to leverage machine learning to identify aninfectious disease among Tanzanian sheep and goat herds. Her research will contribute to empowering
smallholder women farmers and improving livelihoods. She has learnt to navigate the highs and lowsof research by retaining sight of her life purpose and scientific vision.

How did your interest in science begin?

How did your interest in science begin?

At primary school, I performed well in sciences andmathematics, and often thought I’d like to be ascientist in order to fulfill my potential andcontribute to society. My mother has been a great
mentor by having faith in me and showing
relentless support for my academic endeavors.

Could you present your research and its
practical applications?
I’m developing an efficient and easily accessible
diagnostic tool to identify maize lethal necrosis (aviral disease affecting maize crops in East Africa,
South East Asia and South America). The kit will
enable farmers to detect the maize viral disease
in a timely manner and deploy practices to reduceyield loses, helping to improve their livelihoods.
The kit will also be available to seed companies,
plant health protection agencies and agriculturalextension workers, informing decisions on thecontrol of maize virus diseases and the importand export of maize germplasm.

36

Devotha Godfrey Nyambo

What does being a woman in science mean
to you?
I enjoy serving as an inspiration to other young
women and showing them that their dreams
are achievable. This means a lot to me. We needto improve the way science is taught in school,
delivering more practical demonstrations that
relate to everyday life. By including more womenin science, we will create more research focused onsociety’s needs and amplify humanity’s progress.

From an early age, I was surrounded by relatives
with scientific & medical careers and encouraging
teachers, I wanted to be a medical doctor. Later,
the African Women in Agricultural Research andDevelopment fellowship prompted me to consider
how best to support women farmers, who playa major role in Africa’s subsistence farming, as
I explored transformative digital technologies.

Could you present your research and its
practical applications?

I enjoy serving as aninspiration to otheryoung women andshowing them that their
dreams are achievable.

I use machine learning to promote the detection
and surveillance of small ruminant plague, aninfectious disease found in animals such as sheep
and goats. My ambition is that government
agencies and extension officers would be able
to report findings using mobile phones in nearreal time, enabling them to map incidences andoptimize resources to control disease outbreaks
more effectively. I feel connected to womensmallholder farmers and excited to contributetowards bridging the digital divide. I dream of

emerging technologies being embraced as a force
for good to strengthen Africa’s food production
systems and nourish its growing population.

What does being a woman in science mean
to you?
There will be a paradigm shift in the near future,
as more women scientists act as role models foryoung girls and share scientific knowledge with
their families.

I dream of emerging
technologies being
embraced as a force forgood to strengthen Africa’s
food production systems.
37

Grace Umutesi

Esther Uwimaana

RWA NDAU GANDA

Doctoral student in Implementation Science

Doctoral student in Molecular Biology

LABORATORY: KENYA SINGLE-DOSE HPV-VACCINE EFFICACY (KEN SHE) STUDYLABORATORY: MOLECULAR BIOLOGY LABORATORIES, BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH INSTITUTEINSTITUTION: UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON, SEATTLE, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

INSTITUTION: FACULTY OF MEDICINE AND HEALTH SCIENCES, STELLENBOSCH UNIVERSITY, SOUTH AFRICA

Promoting women’s health through improved
HPV vaccination coverage

Exploring potential M. tuberculosis antigens
to help in the fight against tuberculosis

Grace Umutesi is a Ph.D. student leveraging implementation science to address gaps in health careservices delivery in low- and middle-income countries. Originally from Rwanda, she is recognized forher work in preventing cervical cancer by highlighting the need to improve access to HPV vaccinationin Kenya. Despite the challenges she faced, she pushes to pursue her dream of contributing to good
health and wellbeing for all.

As part of the collective efforts to address tropical diseases in Sub-Saharan Africa, Esther Uwimaana
is conducting research on potential vaccines for tuberculosis. She is active in fund raising and in finding
opportunities in science for women.

How did your interest in science begin?

How did your interest in science begin?

My interest in science took root in my childhood,when I observed the pain and loss resulting frompreventable illnesses in my family and community.
Fueled by a desire to alleviate their suffering andimprove their quality of life, I nurtured a profoundcuriosity for understanding the human body andthe field of health sciences.

Could you present your research and its
practical applications?
To help prevent cervical cancer, I’m investigating
barriers and facilitators to HPV vaccination andassessing the acceptability of a single-dose HPV
vaccination strategy among healthcare providers
in Kenya. Ultimately, the goal is to provide valuable
insights to inform strategies for promoting better
stakeholder engagement, increasing awarenessof the importance of HPV vaccination, andimproving HPV vaccination coverage.

38

What does being a woman in science mean
to you?
Throughout their careers, women scientists mustovercome professional and academic hurdles
while balancing domestic responsibilities andsupporting their communities. I understood thatpersevering with this journey and succeeding
would not only strengthen my own resilience but
also serve as an inspiration to girls from humble
beginnings, showing them that a career science isattainable. Women are the cornerstone of African
societies, and represent an invaluable resource
for solving the continent’s most urgent healthchallenges.

Women scientists must overcome
professional and academic
hurdles while balancing domestic
responsibilities and supporting
entire communities.

I have always been curious to see how we canapply science to solve everyday challenges.
This motivated me to consider new possibilities forgirls from rural Uganda. I enjoyed biology, andduring immunology lectures, I remember being
fascinated by how the host defends itself against
pathogens and how pathogens subvert immune
responses.

What does being a woman in science mean
to you?
I feel privileged – it is an amazing opportunity forme to inspire girls in my village, showing them thata career in science is possible. The increase inopportunities for women is gradually breaking
societal norms, however we still need to convince
African families of the value of girls’ education,
create more role models and enable women scientists to work free of inequality and discrimination.

Could you present your research and its
practical applications?
I’m examining the potential of Mycobacterium
tuberculosis antigens as vaccines against tuberculosis. This involves priming human immune
cells with mycobacterial proteins and peptides,
followed by challenging the human cells withbacteria and observing whether these cells kill
the bacteria. My findings could be used todevelop effective vaccines to keep people safe
from tuberculosis and contribute to the fightagainst infectious diseases.

It’s an amazing opportunity
for me to inspire girls in
my village, showing themthat a career in scienceis possible.
39

West
Africa40

41

Temitope Abiola

Ini Adinya

NIG E RIANI GERI A

Doctoral student in BiochemistryPost-doctoral student in Applied Mathematics

LABORATORY: ENVIRONMENTAL BIOTECHNOLOGYINSTITUTION: UNIVERSITY OF IBADANINSTITUTION: REDEEMER’S UNIVERSITY

Leveraging metabolic engineering to
improve the efficiency of biodiesel

Harnessing mathematics to optimise investments

Temitope Abiola is a doctoral student from Nigeria conducting biochemistry research to help develop
more sustainable, renewable and higher quality biodiesel. She has worked hard to achieve a balance
between life and scientific research, relentlessly pursuing her dreams as a versatile and dynamic woman
in science.

Ini Adinya is awarded for her work to clarify the performance and benefits of investments. In Nigeria,
she has overcome discrimination in the workplace and persevered to raise funds to continue her studies.
Ini is passionate about the role of women in science and the importance of developing more female
talent in the research world.

How did your interest in science begin?

How did your interest in science begin?

I have always been passionate about sciencesince my childhood. I am inquisitive by nature andI love reading. My parents, particularly my father
and high school teachers, believed in me and gaveme the support and encouragement I needed tosucceed as a young student. I’m passionate about
imparting knowledge to others and making a
positive contribution to the next generation.

Could you present your research and its
practical applications?
My research is centered on the metabolicengineering (optimizing genetic and regulatory
processes within cells) of oleaginous organisms forthe production of enhanced lipids (oily molecules
or fatty acids that can be used as raw materials
for biodiesel production). When engineeredorganisms are employed as feedstocks, biodieselof higher quantity and quality can be produced.
Large scale production of biodiesel will ultimately
contribute to the socio-economic developmentof my country, as it is eco-friendly, renewable andbiodegradable compared to fossil fuel.

42

What does being a woman in science mean
to you?
Identifying ways to break new grounds in researchand continuously seeking more knowledge andskills, while striving to create a balance between
science and other spheres of life. Equality isneeded to provide an enabling environment for
more women to advance in science, starting withgreater opportunities for girls to pursue scienceand build confidence through talks, scholarships
and mentorship programs.

I ventured into sciences in high school, however,my physics and mathematics teachers reinforced
my interest with their dynamic, engaging
approach. My objective is demystifying
mathematics by applying it to real life. It will be a
dream come true for me, if science can nib
negative realities in the bud. For instance,
foreseeing global disasters such as climatechange and creating preventive measures to help
save lives.

What does being a woman in science mean
to you?
It’s both challenging and interesting. Women are
significant and should be fully involved in science.
Despite the challenges of work-home balance,
discrimination, harassment and hostile working
environments, they are making giant strides andhave found their way to the top in many scientificfields. With large populations of women in mostAfrican countries, empowering more women
to enter science will lead to more rapid andsustainable development.

Could you present your research and its
practical applications?

I’m passionate about
imparting knowledge
to others and making a
positive contribution to
the next generations.

I’m combining mathematics, finance andcomputing to investigate financial models withdiscontinuities in the real options framework
for the valuation of investments. I’m seeking todetermine the dynamics of stochastic variables
and appropriate numerical and analytical tools
for solving derived models.

Empowering more women
to enter science will leadto more rapid andsustainable development.
43

Bernice Konadu Agyeman

Mary Amoako

G HANAGHANA

Doctoral student in Environmental Sciences

Post-doctoral researcher in Nutrition and Dietetics

LABORATORY: ALPHA AND GAMMA SPECTROMETRY LABORATORY, RADIATION PROTECTION INSTITUTELABORATORY: HUMAN GENETICS AND GENOMICS LABORATORYINSTITUTION: GHANA ATOMIC ENERGY COMMISSIONINSTITUTION: KWAME NKRUMAH UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY (KNUST)

Improving drinking water quality in Ghana

Exploring how nutrition stands
to impact birth deformities

Bernice Konadu Aygeman is awarded for exploring drinking water quality in Ghana, with a viewto enabling policymakers to address the risks of waterborne diseases. She has overcome funding
challenges and a lack of scientific equipment with support from donors, NGOs and other stakeholders.
This is the beginning of her journey to help solve environmental challenges in Africa.

Dr. Mary Amoako is exploring how diets and nutrition influence the possibility of babies developing
orofacial clefts (OFC), facial malformations occurring early in pregnancy and contributing to perinatal
deaths. After completing her Ph.D. at Michigan State University, she founded a nutrition and lifestylebusiness in Ghana providing advice to Ghanaians especially women. She dreams of helping vulnerable
populations to improve their health by eradicating malnutrition.

How did your interest in science begin?

How did your interest in science begin?

Science gives hope for the future. I enjoyedstudying diverse scientific subjects at school andwas inspired by the natural world. The dreamof improving water quality drew me into pursuinga career in science, and I was inspired by seeing
women scientists rising up to accomplish
important discoveries.

Could you present your research and its
practical applications?
I’m assessing drinking water in Ghana for physicochemical parameters, microbial quality, heavy
metals and radiological content, and predicting
the effect on people’s health. My findings will
inform guidelines on waterborne disease such as
typhoid and cholera, and ultimately contributeto addressing Africa’s sustainable development
agenda. I dream of being an environmental
scientist who creates a positive impact.

44

What does being a woman in science mean
to you?
Women stand to play a vital role in global
sustainability and development when empowered
through opportunities in science, innovation andtechnology. We must challenge the stereotypes
that confine women’s progress, build their selfconfidence and encourage more girls to enterscience by highlighting the achievements andjourneys of enterprising women scientists.

I was born into a family where everyone studied
science. I was inspired by my brothers and we
often discussed scientific topics at home. To
overcome the challenges of being a girl in scienceand gain the confidence to pursue science at ahigher level, I attended gender empowerment
workshops such as the Science, Technology andMathematics Education (STME) clinic for girls.

Could you present your research and its
practical applications?

My findings will inform
guidelines on establishment forthe control of waterborne disease
and ultimately contribute toaddressing Africa sustainable
development agenda.

To help address the issue of children beingborn with orofacial clefts, I am exploring therelationship between periconceptional maternal
dietary patterns, multivitamin use and levels of
folate in the blood. I am comparing case andcontrol mothers to identify potential OFC risks.
My findings will inform prevention strategies,
nutrition counseling and education, breaking
barriers in Ghana, where collaboration between
human genetics and nutrition is novel, andimproving reproductive health among women.

What does being a woman in science mean
to you?
A renowned educationist in Ghana once said: ‘Ifyou educate a woman, you educate the whole
nation’. I’m striving to bring a positive impact to
as many lives as possible in my community andcountry. Women bring creativity to the field of
science, and it will be phenomenal to encourage
more women scientists in Africa.

Women bringcreativity to the fieldof science, and it will
be phenomenal toencourage more womenscientists in Africa.
45

Dorcas Atibilla
G HANACABO

V ERDE

Doctoral student in Medical Entomology

Post-doctoral researcher in Oncology

LABORATORY & INSTITUTION: CITY OF NEW ORLEANS MOSQUITO, TERMITE AND RODENTCONTROL BOARD LABORATORY, NEW ORLEANS, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

INSTITUTION : AGOSTINHO NETO UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

Shining a light on mosquito behaviourin the fight against malaria

Advancing research in breast cancer
through gene research

Dorcas Atibilla is rewarded for her work to help fight malaria in Ghana and beyond by better
understanding mosquito behavior, disease transmission, and insecticide resistance. Mentorship has
been instrumental in shaping her path, together with professional networks and active fundraising
to support her studies.

Dr. Pamela Borges is a post-doctoral student from Cabo Verde specializing in oncology. She isrewarded for her pioneering research into the prevalence of hereditary gene mutations among breast
cancer patients. She has persevered with building a career in science despite a lack of resources andinfrastructure in her country, through seeking funding and fellowships from international sources.

How did your interest in science begin?

How did your interest in science begin?

My personal experience of malaria and witnessing
its impact on individuals and communities
motivated me to push the boundaries of scientificexploration. I was fortunate that my parents gave
us equal opportunities for a good education, myfather encouraged me to cultivate an interest inmathematics, which inspired me to excel at highschool.

Could you present your research and its
practical applications?
Through my research, I aim to understand themechanisms behind mosquito vector behavior
in Ghana’s Middle Belt, their adaptation
to insecticides, and factors influencing thetransmission dynamics of malaria. Ultimately,
my findings will contribute to innovative tools
to manage vectors and combat malaria more
efficiently, while reducing its burden. I dream ofa multi-disciplinary, groundbreaking solution to
tackle insecticide resistance in malaria vectors
and drug resistance in the malaria parasite.

46

Pamela Borges

What does being a woman in science mean
to you?
Demonstrating resilience and determination in
the face of gender bias, underrepresentation,
work-life balance and a lack of mentorship.
Despite these obstacles, women scientists arecontributing significantly and rising to become
influential leaders. Promoting gender equality
is crucial to fostering an inclusive and diverse
scientific community and encouraging innovation.
With a strong connection to their communities,
women scientists are better placed to address
our continent’s great challenges in a culturally
sensitive manner.

Promoting gender equality is
crucial to fostering an inclusiveand diverse scientific communityand encouraging innovation.

LABORATORY: MOLECULAR BIOLOGYAs a naturally curious person with a longstanding
passion for science and problem-solving, I fully
realized the potential of scientific research topromote sustainable development through my
doctoral research. This inspired me to use myknowledge and skills to investigate more about
cancer and build a stronger foundation for
scientific exploration in my country.

Could you present your research and its
practical applications?
In Cabo Verde, cancer is the second most common
cause of death, however little is known about
the disease. I am collecting in-depth informationfrom more than 500 breast cancer patients inorder to characterize prevalent hereditary genemutations and develop a breast cancer genomic
surveillance program, promoting early diagnosis
and saving more lives. My findings will also informpublic health policy.

What does being a woman in science mean
to you?
Promoting diversity and inspiring future generations of women to conduct research despite
the obstacles. To harness the vast untapped
potential of Africa’s women, we must continue tohighlight the work of inspiring women scientists
and advocate for policies that promote inclusive
learning. Embracing diversity in science is a matter of social justice. It will create a more resilientscientific community capable of advancing
know-ledge and innovation to resolve the world’s
great challenges. Step by step, we will build thefuture we want.

Embracing diversity
in science is a matterof social justice.
47

Kafayath Fabiyi

Jedidah Jacob

BE NI NNI GERI A

Doctoral student in Bacteriology and Virology

Doctoral student in Conservation Biology

LABORATORY: RESEARCH UNIT IN APPLIED MICROBIOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY OF NATURAL SUBSTANCESLABORATORY: DEPARTMENT OF ZOOLOGYINSTITUTION : POLYTECHNIC SCHOOL OF ABOMEY-CALAVI, UNIVERSITY OF ABOMEY-CALAVIINSTITUTION : UNIVERSITY OF JOS

Leveraging genomic science
to overcome bacterial resistanceConserving the plants and pollinatorsof the Nigerian savanna

Kafayath Fabiyi is renowned for her groundbreaking research on bacterial resistance. Her overarchinggoal is to safeguard vulnerable communities in Africa and around the world from infectious diseases.
In Benin, she passionately balances her research commitments with her family life, charting a course
to excellence through her unwavering scientific rigor and unrelenting determination to thrive. She isauthoring high cutting-edge research papers and community involvement’s activities.

Jedidah Jacob is awarded for her work to conserve plants and pollinators in the Nigerian savanna.
She has experienced challenges such as a lack of resources and funding for her research project, which
obliged her to adapt her methodology. At a personal level, her family sold their land to finance her MSc.

How did your interest in science begin?

How did your interest in science begin?

My passion for science was ignited by a childhood
tragedy—the loss of my uncle to an undiagnosed
illness. After completing my bachelor’s degree,
I pursued a career in biomedical analysis with theoverarching goal of making a significant impact
on health challenges. It didn’t take long for me tobecome captivated by the field of microbiology
and the study of bacterial resistance. My ultimate
vision is a world where infectious diseases are
effectively managed, and access to healthcare isa universal reality for everyone.

Could you present your research and its
practical applications?
My research interests center around exploring
the genomic diversity of multi-resistant bacteria
isolated in Benin and conducting biocontrol
trials using bacteriophages. The outcomes of
my research will empower me to compile acomprehensive repository of virulent phagesthat are highly effective against multi-resistantbacteria responsible for various infections.

48

What does being a woman in science mean
to you?
Dedicated to a scientific career, regardless ofthe challenges, and committed to advancing
research and innovation despite gender-related
hurdles. We must dismantle patriarchal attitudes,
combat harassment, and foster the emergence ofmore female role models in Africa. Diversity serves
as a catalyst for innovation and excellence. When
women are actively engaged at every echelonof scientific research, their presence will catalyze
the development of more creative and effective
solutions to the scientific and social challenges
facing our continent.

I envision a world where infectious
diseases are effectively managed,
and access to healthcare becomes anaccessible reality for everyone.

My love for nature, particularly flowers, butterflies
and birds initiated my interest in science from anearly age. I was encouraged by my father and had
exceptional female biology and geographyteachers. My interest solidified after I learnt about
forest ecology and regeneration, seed dispersal
and pollination, during a six month internship with
the Nigerian Montane Forest Project in 2010.
I look forward to a future where people and nature
co-exist sustainably.

What does being a woman in science mean
to you?
In Nigeria, where families are highly traditional
being a woman in science means looking after
the family while pushing to grow your careerand make a global impact. If women are given
equal opportunities and resources, they will be as
productive as men, if not more, delivering creative
innovations for everyone’s benefit. Girls must learn
about prominent women scientists at school anddiscover how they can apply science to conserve
the environment and promote a fairer world.

Could you present your research and its
practical applications?
My research explores pollinator community
structures (such as species richness, distribution
and abundance), and seeks to explain how plants
and pollinators interact in different habitats andseasons in the Nigerian savannah. This could
be through network connections, specialization,
nestedness and robustness. Finally, it assesses
the contribution of pollinators to the quantityand quality of cultivated fruits.

I look forward to afuture where people
and nature co-exist
sustainably.
49Aderonke Korede

Emma Edinam Kploanyi

NIG E RIA

GHANA

Doctoral student in Agricultural Biotechnology and Food Biotechnology

Doctoral student in Epidemiology

LABORATORY: FOOD CHEMISTRY LABORATORY, DEPARTMENT OF FOOD SCIENCELABORATORY: DEPARTMENT OF EPIDEMIOLOGYINSTITUTION: LADOKE AKINTOLA UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGYINSTITUTION : SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH, UNIVERSITY OF GHANA

Exploring the health benefits of natural ingredients

Taking strategic action to eliminate
hepatitis B and C in Ghana and beyond

Aderonke Korede is rewarded for her chemistry research into the health benefits of shea olein. Basedin Nigeria, she has overcome a lack of female role models and discriminatory policies to progress
as a woman in science. Aderonke has been encouraged by her Ph.D. supervisor. She is ‘climbing on her
shoulder’ to see the world of science.

Emma Edinam Kploanyi is awarded for her research on interventions for the prevention, testing
and treatment of viral hepatitis B and C in Ghana. She is also contributing to the country’s widerplans to eliminate epidemics from these diseases. Emma is determined to follow her chosen path andis supported by dedicated mentors.

How did your interest in science begin?

How did your interest in science begin?

My interest really emerged when I took a foodchemistry course at college. I was hooked byseeing chemistry evolve in every branch of science.
This prompted my studies in food science andtechnology, with a focus on the health benefits ofginger-turmeric fortified shea olein (a naturalemollient).

Could you present your research and its
practical applications?
Ginger and turmeric oleoresins contain a mixtureof bioactive compounds that contribute totheir flavor and potential health benefits. Their
incorporation into shea olein will yield new
products with improved sensory properties andshelf-life, leading to food innovations that deliver
additional health benefits beyond nutrition,
analytical chemistry, packaging and storage
technology.

50

What does being a woman in science mean
to you?
I’m overcoming stereotypes, proving that women
can be as successful as men in improving the livesof millions of people. We need to empower womento access education and research, provide equal
opportunities and celebrate their accomplishments, building their confidence to pursue theirambitions. Gender equality in research will bring a
different perspective, more focus on the needs ofmarginalized communities and a more inclusive
society. When women are able to participate fullyin science, the fruits of scientific advances will beshared more fairly.

When women are able toparticipate fully in science, thefruits of scientific advances will
be shared more fairly.

I was interested from an early age, as my teachersat school delivered science lessons in an interestingmanner. My passion for research was ignited
during my first undergraduate internship at abiomedical research institute. I dream of helping
to eliminate viral hepatitis as a public healththreat and improving patient outcomes.

Could you present your research and its
practical applications?
My research describes how hepatitis B and C
patients progress through the various stagesof care at treatment facilities and identifies
opportunities for improvement. It also assesses
Ghana’s implementation of five interventions
proposed for eliminating viral hepatitis B and C
epidemics by 2030. My findings will help address
barriers to accessing care and provide evidence
for the development of a national elimination
plan.

What does being a woman in science mean
to you?
It’s exciting to be one of the women making a
difference in the world of science. It provides aunique opportunity to contribute to improving
quality of life through evidence-based scientificresearch. Gender equality is vital to promoting
sustainable development, and the more women
are involved in science, the greater their influencein creating a positive impact in their families andbeyond.

I dream of helping toeliminate viral hepatitis
as a public healththreat and improving
patient outcomes.
51

Fatou Lo Niang

Rahimat Yakubu

S E NEGALNI GERI A

Doctoral student in Artificial Intelligence

Doctoral student in Electrical and Electronic Engineering

LABORATORY: DIGITAL AND COMPUTER ANALYSIS LABORATORYLABORATORY: ENGINEERING EDUCATION PROJECT (KEEP)INSTITUTION: GASTON BERGER UNIVERSITYINSTITUTION: KWAME NKRUMAH UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY (KNUST), GHANA

Leveraging machine learning to help prevent
cardiovascular pathologies in Africa

Advancing clean energy in
Nigeria’s universities and hospitals

Fatou Lo Niang is rewarded for her efforts to leverage machine learning and artificial intelligence toimprove outcomes for cardiovascular diseases. Based in Senegal, she moved away from her community
to study, and has been greatly encouraged by her tutor, whose dynamic teaching has inspired her
to pursue excellence in her studies.

Rahimat Yakubu is rewarded for her work in advancing clean energy research in Nigeria, helping to
expand access to solar technology in towns and rural communities, thereby enabling more people
to improve their health, education and economic prospects.

How did your interest in science begin?
I’ve always been fascinated by science andI couldn’t see myself doing anything else. I was
impressed by natural science classes in college.
Later, I realized that I could leverage computerscience to make a positive contribution to society.

Could you present your research and its
practical applications?
Through my research, I focus on using machinelearning to better manage and help prevent
cardiovascular pathologies in Africa, where theuse of artificial intelligence in medicine is relatively
limited.

What does being a woman in science mean
to you?
The distinction encourages me to pursue myscientific journey and be a role model for girls,
while reinforcing my belief that it is possible forwomen in Africa to succeed in science. We must52

remove the cultural barriers that prevent girls
from pursuing good education and following
their dreams. Women play an important role insociety and stand to contribute significantly tosustainable development.

We must remove
the cultural barriers
that prevent girls
from pursuinggood educationand following
their dreams.

How did your interest in science begin?
My interest in science was sparked in elementary
school when my teacher demonstrated how topower a light bulb using batteries. Later, thechallenge of achieving reliable access to electricity
in Nigeria inspired me to pursue a degree inElectrical Engineering. And after giving birth tomy son around 2.30am in a hospital without
electricity, I realised the importance of clean
energy and determined to use my skills to address
the energy crisis in schools, hospitals and ruralcommunities.

Could you present your research and its
practical applications?
I focus on the technical design, modeling andsimulation of diverse solar PV systems, including
those mounted on the ground, floating on wateror using solar trackers. Floating PV Systems help
to reduce the amount of land needed for solar
arrays and lower water evaporation. Meanwhile,bifacial PV modules create up to 10-30%
more power than conventional panels. My work
is contributing to the Nigerian government’s
ambitions to bring clean, sustainable energy touniversities and hospitals across the country.

What does being a woman in science mean
to you?
Being a change-maker - developing newtechnologies to help people in developing
countries. We must encourage girls in Africa intoscience by leveraging more mentors to combat
gender stereotypes and overcome culturalbarriers, enabling them to pursue their dreams.
With more diverse perspectives, we are more
likely to come up with innovative solutions to thecontinent’s great challenges.

We must encourage girls
in Africa into science byleveraging more role models
and mentors to combat genderstereotypes and overcome
cultural barriers, enablingthem to pursue their dreams.
53

All media resources of the Young Talents Sub-Saharan Africa Awards program
L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science
are available on
www.fondationloreal.com

Follow the program
L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science on@4WOMENINSCIENCE@FONDATIONLOREAL

Linkedin: Fondation L’Oréal, UNESCO#FWIS2023#FORWOMENINSCIENCE#FONDATIONLOREAL#UNESCO

54

55

56