Wafaa M Rashed, Chair and Founder of Pan-African PGS Education and Research Initiative, shared a post on LinkedIn:
“From PAPERI Graduate to Genomics Policy Advocate: Mary Mwanza’s Vision for Zambia’s Regional Leadership.
Today, we proudly celebrate one of PAPERI’s inspiring voices in policy advocacy – Ms. Mary Mwanza, whose latest blog, “Zambia’s Role in Regional Genomics Policy: Leading the Future of Southern Africa” is another testament to the power of knowledge transformed into action.
Mary is a graduate of the Policy Advocacy in Genetics and Genomics Course, but more importantly, she is demonstrating what it truly means to become a policy advocate. Rather than stopping at graduation, she continues to translate what she has learned into meaningful advocacy by publishing thought-provoking blogs that address critical genomics policy issues in Zambia and across Africa.
Her latest article presents a compelling vision of Zambia as a future regional leader in genomics governance – promoting ethical research, responsible data sharing, regional collaboration, and equitable benefit-sharing. These conversations are essential as Africa shapes its own genomic future.
At PAPERI, this is exactly the impact we hope to create: empowering African professionals not only with knowledge but with the confidence and commitment to influence policy, educate communities, and inspire change.
Mary reminds us that policy advocacy is not confined to government offices – it begins with informed voices willing to spark conversations, share ideas, and champion evidence-based solutions.
We are incredibly proud of this young African woman and grateful to have her as part of the PAPERI community. Her dedication is an inspiration to current and future course participants across the continent.
Congratulations, Mary! Your voice is helping shape the future of genomics policy in Zambia, Southern Africa, and beyond. We look forward to seeing your continued impact.”
Other articles featuring Wafaa M Rashed on OncoDaily.