Namibian ophthalmologist Helena Ndume has been nominated for an African Genius Award (AGA).
This was announced by AGA executive Noloyiso Seheri.
Seheri says the AGAs recognise exceptional Africans working to advance Africa’s global competitiveness, problem-solving skills, self-love and patriotism and who are committed to the continent’s development.
“May marks Africa Month, a time to celebrate the continent’s arts, culture, fashion, cuisine, wealth of beauty and natural resources.
“It is also a period to reflect on the outstanding accomplishments of its people through initiatives such as the African Genius Awards,” she says.
Seheri says the awards are run by Priority Performance Projects, which is part of Plus 94 Research, the largest independent, South African and black-owned research company in the country.
Seheri says 21 exceptional African achievers have been nominated for this year’s awards.
She says the awards recognise the following categories: academics and literature, technology and innovation, science and mathematics, business and commerce, sport, music, arts and drama, social entrepreneurship and activism, as well as earth and environment.
The 21 African achievers nominated for this year’s AGA have risen to the top of their chosen fields in politics, literature, social justice activism, innovation, academia, science, medicine and more.
Seheri says they are from Kenya, Cameroon, Mauritius and South Africa, right through to Ghana, Nigeria, Tanzania, Eritrea and Namibia.
“Dr Helena Ndume has dedicated her career to providing eye care services to people in need, particularly those living in remote and underserved communities in Namibia and other parts of Africa,” she says.
Seheri says Ndume is widely regarded as a leading figure in the field of ophthalmology in Africa and a champion for the rights of people with disabilities.
She says Ndume’s admirable work, which has positively impacted the lives of large numbers of people, makes her deserving of an AGA nomination.
“When I heard that I was nominated for an AGA, I couldn’t believe it!” Ndume says.
“I felt so honoured that the little I contribute towards the work of preventable blindness has been recognised and placed among these highly accomplished individuals.”
A total of 121 nominations were made, after which an adjudication committee shortlisted 21 nominees for judging, awarding them as outstanding achievers.
The committee will select three AGA winners from the 21 nominees, who will be announced on 25 May, Africa Day, and conferred with genius status.
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