DATILINE: Nairobi, Kenya – July 7, 2026
The World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Africa has announced the commencement of the fourth cohort of the Mwele Malecela Mentorship Programme (MMM). This two-year mentorship initiative is dedicated to fostering leadership and advocacy against Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) among African women professionals.
The MMM Programme, named in honor of the late Dr.
Mwele Ntuli Malecela, a distinguished scientist and advocate for NTD elimination, represents a strategic partnership between the WHO, The END Fund, and the American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene (ASTMH). It aligns with the WHO NTD Roadmap 2021–2030 and the ESPEN Strategy 2026–2030, emphasizing gender equity and leadership development.
With applications open, the Programme is inviting mid-career African women who are actively engaged in the field of NTDs to apply as mentees.
The application deadline is August 11, 2026.
The Programme also seeks experienced mentors with strong leadership and NTD expertise to guide participants through a structured mentorship journey.
The mentorship journey will feature a comprehensive curriculum and networking opportunities, supported by cash awards for participants.
The Programme is designed to empower mentees with the skills, resources, and networks necessary to become influential leaders in the fight against NTDs.
The MMM Programme is committed to addressing gender disparities within the NTD field and aims to bridge the leadership gap by focusing on mid-career African women.
The selection process for mentors ensures a diverse range of experts, while mentees are chosen for their dedication to public health, leadership potential, and community impact.
Previous cohorts have seen mentees achieve significant positions in public health organizations and contribute to NTD control and elimination strategies.
The fourth cohort is expected to continue this legacy, empowering a new generation of African women leaders.
The Programme’s impact is anticipated to extend beyond the mentorship period, fostering long-term change in the public health landscape across Africa.
For more information and application details, visit: afro.
Who. Int/MalecelaMentorship.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 3*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Africa Health
