Inaugural Mwele Malecela Mentorship Programme Shines at the 14th Annual NTD NGO Network Conference

21 Sep 2023

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania – The Mwele Malecela Mentorship (MMM) Programme marked its debut at the prestigious 14th Annual NTD NGO Network (NNN) Conference, which took place from September 19th to 21st at the Hyatt Regency in Dar es Salaam. The conference, a cornerstone event for the global health sector, brought together a diverse group of experts, researchers, and advocates, all united by a common goal: to eliminate Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs).

Embracing this year's conference theme, "Reaching New Frontiers - Powering a New Generation of Leadership and Cross-Sectoral Collaborations to End NTDs," the MMM Programme launched its mission to empower African women to become front-runners in the battle against NTDs. The program aligns perfectly with the theme, emphasizing the cultivation of leadership and fostering partnerships to achieve a future free from NTDs.

The MMM Programme proudly presented its first group of mentees and mentors, embodying the initiative's dedication to fostering direct engagement with the wider NTD community. The participation of three mentees and a mentor from the program at the conference underscored the commitment to not just discuss change but to actively partake in the movement for health improvement.

As the MMM Programme steps into the global health spotlight, it aims to elevate the contributions of African women, ensuring their indispensable perspectives and leadership are integral to the narrative of NTD control and elimination. The program's introduction at the NNN Conference represents just the beginning of its journey to advocate for and support women's empowerment in the health sector.

The MMM Programme's involvement at the NNN Conference is a clear signal of its dedication to nurturing new leaders and catalyzing collaborative efforts. It is an affirmation of the power of mentorship and the critical role of inclusive leadership in overcoming the challenges posed by NTDs. With an eye to the future, the MMM Programme is set to become a beacon of progress and a driver of transformational change in the global fight against Neglected Tropical Diseases.