Dr. Olajumoke Ladapo-Osinuga, Founder of the Excellence in Medicine Ladies Network, has highlighted the need to equip future generations of African female doctors to transform health systems across the continent.
Ladapo-Osinuga said African female doctors could also lead globally if provided with the right tools, networks and mentorship.
The founder, in a statement to commemorate International Women’s Day and the upcoming Global African Women in Medicine Summit 2026 scheduled for March 21 in Ogun State, said such support systems would enable women, particularly female doctors, to thrive.
She said the upcoming summit, with the theme “Sustaining Leadership: From Practice to Boardroom,” aims to empower African women in medicine to embrace and sustain leadership roles in clinical practice, health administration, academia and corporate boardrooms.
The GAWIM summit convener said professionals, educators, policymakers and emerging leaders from Africa and the global medical community would be present to help shape the future of female doctors on the continent.
According to her, discussions at the event will focus on breaking barriers, overcoming systemic challenges and stereotypes in medicine, driving innovation and advancing women into decision-making positions.
“The primary objective of GAWIM 2026 is to inspire and encourage African female doctors at all stages of their careers.
“It will also encourage them to pursue leadership roles, build strong professional networks and contribute meaningfully to sustainable healthcare transformation,” she said.
According to her, the Tomi Coker, Commissioner for Health in Ogun State, will deliver the keynote address, while Olutoyin Akande-Ajala of the JBS Gerontology Center / Medicare Services and other medical experts will attend the programme.
