Wafaa M Rashed, Chair and Founder of Pan-African PGS Education and Research Initiative, shared a post on LinkedIn:
“New Blog Spotlight from PAPERI
Empowering the Next Generation: Advancing Health Equity Through Genomics in Zambia
By Mary Mwanza (Zambia)
As genomics continues to transform global health, a critical question emerges: will these advances reduce health disparities – or deepen them?
In her powerful blog, “Health Equity and Genomics: Ensuring No Zambian Is Left Out,” Mary Mwanza explores how Zambia can harness genomics as a tool for equity rather than exclusion – especially in the face of the urban – rural healthcare divide.
Key insights from the blog:
- Genomic medicine risks widening inequities if access remains concentrated in urban centers
- Rural communities face structural barriers, including limited infrastructure, workforce shortages, and connectivity gaps
- Inclusive research is essential to ensure African populations are represented and benefit from genomic advancements
- Community engagement and benefit-sharing are critical for building trust and achieving equitable outcomes
- Investments in infrastructure, workforce development, and ethical governance are key to scaling equitable genomics
A powerful reminder:
“Ensuring that no Zambian is left out requires more than scientific advancement – it demands a commitment to justice, inclusion, and shared benefit.”
What makes this contribution especially inspiring is that it reflects action beyond the classroom.
As a graduate of the PAPERI Policy Advocacy in Genetics and Genomics course, Mary has dedicated her efforts to advancing genomics policy awareness in Zambia – driven by her passion for her country and the African continent.
Mary represents a new generation of African leaders – visionary, committed, and determined to shape a more equitable future.”
Other articles featuring Wafaa M Rashed and Mary Mwanza on OncoDaily.