Miriam Mutebi: From growing up in Kenya to becoming the President of AORTIC-Africa

Miriam Mutebi shared on LinkedIn:

“Growing up in Kenya, I never quite imagined, that my path would lead me to where I am today.

Living not too far from the Wilson Airport in Nairobi; watching the metal birds whizzing above us in the sky, always gave me goosebumps. I knew I’d be a pilot someday. And then, for a while there, I toyed with becoming a journalist, or maybe even a playwright, having an appreciation and love for theatre and the arts.

But, we know that all little girls dream they can be many things, if not, everything. Eventually, I opted to go with my dad’s sure advice and ended up in the medical field.

Thank You, Dad! I owe you.

Ever since, my journey from a young girl to a breast surgeon and advocate for cancer care, has been one of passion and perseverance. The road has not always been easy, but my determination to make a difference in the lives of cancer patients keeps me going.

11 years ago, I made another decision to be part of the African Organization for Research and Training in Cancer (AORTIC), the premier and leading organization for cancer control in Africa.

I joined in 2013, initially, to train as a master advocate for cancer; a decision that propelled me down a deep rabbit hole, with me taking on more active roles. As we speak, I’m serving as the President of AORTIC- Africa until November 2025.

But what really, does AORTIC do?

For starters, we are big on improving early cancer detection, cancer treatment, and support for cancer patients, and enhancing the skills of the oncology workforce, while expanding continental research in cancer care delivery.

These efforts are not just about individual achievements, but about the collective impact AORTIC can have on our communities across the continent.

Welcome to my Africa Cancer Dialogues series.

Over the next 54 days, leading up to the World Cancer Research Day on September 24th, I invite you to indulge me a little, as I share snippets of AORTIC’s work, our team’s dedication, and the inspiring stories of the people we serve.

I hope these stories, shed light on the importance of cancer care and the incredible strength and resilience of those affected by it.

I will also spotlight key activities across the 54 regions of Africa, and the amazing and dedicated workforce helping to drive change.

Stay with me and learn about AORTIC’s journey in cancer care and how we are making a difference.”

Source: Miriam Mutebi/LinkedIn

Miriam Mutebi is a Breast Surgical Oncologist and Assistant Professor in the Department of Surgery at the Aga Khan University Hospital in Nairobi, Kenya. She is also the Vice-President of East Africa of the African Organization for Research and Training in Cancer (AORTIC), treasurer for the Kenya Society of Hematology and Oncology (KESHO) and on the Board of Directors of the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC).

She is the co-founder of the Pan African Women’s Association of Surgeons and is part of the Kenya Association of Women Surgeons. She is an avid supporter for the education and support for women, especially in surgery and she aims to provide mentorship for women in surgery and to improve women’s health and surgical care in Africa. She is currently pursuing a pilot’s license in order to extend breast care services to marginalized areas.