Muslims shine at Heroes in Health Awards 2024
Dr Shamim Nabuuma’s image projected on the screens at HIHA awards after she was announced winner in the ICT and innovation category
By Our Reporter
Muslim professionals shone at the Heroes in Health (HIHA) awards held on November 15, in Kampala, as organisations and exceptional individuals making a significant impact in Uganda’s healthcare sector were recognised.
The HIHA awards 2024 were held under the theme; “Health workforce financing to achieve universal health coverage.”
Dr Shamim Nabuuma scooped the top award in the use of ICT and innovation to improve patient care category. Nabuuma, a Ugandan innovator and social entrepreneur, is the mastermind behind a popular cancer screening app helping thousands of African women to detect the disease.
She founded Chil artificial intelligence lab, which incorporates artificial intelligence-guided e-oncology services.
Dr Nabuuma is also serving as Africa’s representative on the Commonwealth Youth Council Executive Committee, where she is helping bridge the gap between young African entrepreneurs and investors willing to invest in Africa.
In 2021, she was selected by the Bloomberg New Economy as one of the extraordinary individuals forming the inaugural class of catalysts that includes 30 other scientists, researchers, entrepreneurs and policymakers.
Another winner is Hajara Shahista Namale, a science and health journalist who emerged winner in the Media Excellence in Health Award category.
Namale was recognised for her dedication to informing the public through coverage of topics such as antimicrobial resistance, childhood and adulthood cancers, reproductive health, obesity, infertility and other prevalent health concerns often featuring victims, experts and activists to provide a comprehensive understanding of these complex issues.
Another Muslim, Were Fashid, a nurse from Butaleja, was recognised for his dedication to providing compassionate care to his community. Although he didn’t win the top award, his exceptional dedication and ability to see beyond a patient’s condition have made him an inspiration to his community.
Sheikh Muhammad Ali Waisswa, the first deputy mufti of Uganda, encouraged Muslims to participate in such awards to raise the Muslim flag higher and bring change in society.
He applauded the few Muslims who took part in the award competition, emphasizing the importance of being a good example in society.
“I am very proud to witness a brother, and sisters take awards home for their contribution to the health sector. That’s a great achievement to the Muslims of Uganda and we are indeed proud of them. I also encourage other Muslims to embrace participation in these and other award ceremonies,” he said.
Dr Jane Ruth Aceng, the minister of health, noted that the HIHA awards are aimed at motivating health workers.
“We (health workers) work in very difficult circumstances in various areas to ensure that Ugandans remain healthy and that every life is saved,” she said.
“Recognising these health workers does more than just motivate them – it also inspires those who may be struggling to find their motivation, encouraging them to redouble their efforts and deliver outstanding care to the people,” she added.
