Zambia’s First Female Urological Surgeon

Dr. Mumba Chalwe-Kaja has etched her name into history as Zambia’s first female Urological Surgeon, becoming a symbol of excellence, resilience, and innovation in the medical field. Her groundbreaking achievement represents a monumental leap in gender representation within a traditionally male-dominated specialty.

A Passion for Medicine and Breaking Barriers

From an early age, Dr. Chalwe-Kaja was drawn to science and medicine, inspired by the compassionate care of a female doctor who treated her and her sister. Pursuing this dream with unwavering determination, she began her medical journey at Rayzan Medical University, where she earned her Doctor of Medicine (MD). She later attained a Master of Medicine in Urology (MMED) from the University of Zambia, becoming the nation’s first female specialist in this field.

Her commitment to excellence was recognized when she became a Fellow of the College of Surgeons of East, Central, and Southern Africa (COSECSA), earning a gold medal for academic excellence. Dr. Chalwe-Kaja is also an Associate Fellow of the American College of Surgeons.

Shaping Healthcare and Empowering Communities

As the Head of Urology at Ndola Teaching Hospital, Dr. Chalwe-Kaja leads with purpose, focusing on patient care, surgical innovation, and mentorship. Her expertise spans the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the urinary system and male reproductive health. In her role as a Principal Investigator at the Tropical Disease Research Centre, she is pioneering prostate cancer research, contributing to Zambia’s advancements in medical science.

Author, Educator, and Advocate

In addition to her clinical and research work, Dr. Chalwe-Kaja is an accomplished author. Her book, The Beginner’s Guide to Urology, serves as a survival guide for medical professionals navigating urology in developing countries. As an Associate Editor of The Annals of African Surgery, she is shaping the future of African medicine through research and collaboration.

Through her lifestyle and wellness organization, StillettO INK, Dr. Chalwe-Kaja focuses on adult sexual and reproductive well-being. She also uses platforms like TEDx to inspire change and foster conversations about gender equality, health equity, and female representation in STEM fields.

Pioneering a New Vision for Africa

Dr. Chalwe-Kaja’s story is not just about individual achievement; it is a testament to her vision for an Africa where women are celebrated for their talents and contributions beyond traditional roles. She advocates for a society where individuals are valued for their potential rather than their marital status or adherence to stereotypes.

Her journey was not without challenges. Entering a male-dominated specialty, she faced stereotypes and questions about her competence. Yet, Dr. Chalwe-Kaja chose to focus on her goals and let her work speak for itself. “What might seem like ‘my’ achievement is a testament to ‘our’ openness to change as a nation,” she reflects.

A Message of Inspiration

Dr. Chalwe-Kaja’s advice to young African girls is clear: “You are sufficient. You deserve it. Your age and gender should never be a hindrance; they are your biggest asset. Gather up all the courage you can and just go for it.”

Her vision extends to empowering women and normalizing feminine excellence. She dreams of an Africa where women’s achievements are celebrated and where gender is no longer a barrier to success.

Legacy of a Changemaker

Dr. Mumba Chalwe-Kaja’s contributions to medicine, research, and advocacy have redefined what is possible for women in Zambia and across Africa. Her life is a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and the belief that one person can inspire change on a global scale.

In a stunning display of brilliance and dedication, Dorcas Tamilore Rotimi, a 22-year-old Nigerian changemaker, has emerged as a shining star in the field of Physiotherapy. Graduating with a Bachelor of Medical Rehabilitation in Physiotherapy from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Dorcas achieved an astounding feat, securing four distinctions and earning five prestigious awards, including the coveted title of Best Graduating Student in her department.

From her first day as a university student at the age of 16, Dorcas set her sights on academic excellence. Her hard work and tenacity bore fruit, as she excelled in four major courses: Clinical Education II, Clinical Procedures, Clinical Evaluation, and the 4th Professional Exams. Recognized as a standout student, she was a Federal Scholarship Award recipient for three academic sessions, a recognition worth ₦750,000.

Upon completing her studies, Dorcas was inducted as a licensed Physiotherapist by the Medical Rehabilitation Therapist Board of Nigeria (MRTBN), further solidifying her place in the medical field.

Dorcas’s university years were marked not just by academic success but also by impactful leadership roles. She served as Class Representative II for five years and represented the Department of Medical Rehabilitation in the Student Union Government (SUG) House. Her contributions extended to the Nigerian Association of Physiotherapy Students (NAPSRC), where she played an influential role in the Student Representative Council (SRC). In 2023, she was appointed as Nigeria’s Key Contact in the World Physiotherapy Future Network, a role that underscores her global impact in her profession. Read more about Dorcas Rotimi here.

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