Country leads

Country Leads represent Amyloidosis Africa within their respective countries and help strengthen collaboration with local clinicians, cardiac societies, and professional networks. They play an important role in supporting awareness, facilitating communication with healthcare professionals, and identifying opportunities for education and collaborative research related to cardiac amyloidosis.

 

By connecting clinicians across different regions, Country Leads contribute to building a growing continental network focused on improving recognition of cardiac amyloidosis and advancing collaboration within Africa’s cardiovascular community.

Kenya

  • Prof. Leonard Mzee Ngunga
    Prof. Leonard Mzee Ngunga
    President, Kenya Cardiac Society
  • Yubrine Gachemba, MSc, MMed
    Yubrine Gachemba, MSc, MMed
    Consultant Cardiologist | Continental Lead – Cardiac Imaging & Diagnostics (Africa), Amyloidosis Africa
  • George Otieno, MD, MSc
    George Otieno, MD, MSc
    Director of Education & Clinical Training
  • Dr. Hazel Mburu
    Dr. Hazel Mburu
    Consultant Cardiologist | Regional Coordinator – Eldoret (Kenya) | Medical Writing Support

Egypt

  • Rasha Abayazeed, MD, PhD
    Rasha Abayazeed, MD, PhD
    Regional Coordinator – Alexandria (Egypt)
  • Raghda E. Eldesouki, MD, MSc, PhD
    Raghda E. Eldesouki, MD, MSc, PhD
    Scientific Lead – Genetics & Precision Medicine
  • Dr. Mohamed ElWazir, MD, PhD
    Dr. Mohamed ElWazir, MD, PhD
    Regional Lead (Ismailia) | Lecturer of Cardiology | Visiting Research Fellow, Mayo Clinic
  • Prof. Dr. Magdy Abdelhamid, MD, PhD
    Prof. Dr. Magdy Abdelhamid, MD, PhD
    Professor of Cardiovascular Medicine | Chair, ESC Task Force North Africa & Middle East
  • Dr Hanaa Abdelaziz
    Dr Hanaa Abdelaziz
    Regional Lead – Mansoura, Egypt | Lecturer of Cardiovascular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University | Cardiologist
  • Ali Elzieny
    Ali Elzieny
    AI, Digitalization & Core Lab Lead | Cardiologist | Clinical Research Fellow, Boston University School of Medicine | Cardiovascular Imaging & AI Research Specialist

Morocco

  • Prof. Nawal Doghmi
    Prof. Nawal Doghmi
    Consultant Cardiologist | Professor of Medicine | Country Lead – Morocco
  • Prof. Dr. Zainab Raissuni
    Prof. Dr. Zainab Raissuni
    Head of Cardiology Department | Tangier University Hospital, Morocco
  • Dr. Hasnaa Belghiti
    Dr. Hasnaa Belghiti
    President-Elect, Moroccan Society of Cardiology | Fellow of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC)

Algeria

  • Dr. Soraya Bachtarzi
    Dr. Soraya Bachtarzi
    Cardiologist – Associate Professor | Multimodality Cardiac Imaging & Adult Congenital Heart Disease | Country Lead – Algeria
  • Souhila OUABDESSELAM, MD, Phd
    Souhila OUABDESSELAM, MD, Phd
    Country Lead – Algeria | Consultant Cardiologist | Cardio-Oncologist | Cardio-Geriatrician | Lecturer, University of Algiers

Cameroon

  • Prof. Félicité Kamdem
    Prof. Félicité Kamdem
    Professor of Cardiology | President, Cameroonian Society of Cardiology
  • Prof. Sylvie Ndongo Amougou
    Prof. Sylvie Ndongo Amougou
    Professor of Cardiology | Vice Dean, Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences | University of Yaoundé I | Country Lead – Cameroon
  • Kemayou Francine
    Kemayou Francine
    Regional Lead – Douala, Cameroon | Cardiologist | Cardio-Oncologist | Consultant in Cardio-Oncology
  • jean Timnou Bekouti
    jean Timnou Bekouti
    Regional Lead – Douala, Cameroon | Interventional Electrophysiologist | Cardiologist | Cardiac Pacing Specialist

Nigeria

  • Dr. Okechukwu Ogah
    Dr. Okechukwu Ogah
    President, Nigerian Cardiac Society | President, African Heart Failure Association

South Africa

  • A/Prof. Blanche Cupido
    A/Prof. Blanche Cupido
    President, South African Heart Association | Associate Professor of Cardiology, University of Cape Town

Ethiopia

  • Dr.Kefelegn Dejene
    Dr.Kefelegn Dejene
    Associate Professor of Medicine & Interventional Cardiologist | Former President, Ethiopian Society of Cardiac Professionals | Country Lead – Ethiopia
  • Sura Markos, MD, FACC
    Sura Markos, MD, FACC
    Clinical Lead – Heart Failure & Diagnostic Pathways (Ethiopia)

Angola

  • Prof. Mauer Gonçalves, MD, MBA, PhD
    Prof. Mauer Gonçalves, MD, MBA, PhD
    Cardiologist | Professor of Medicine | Clinical Researcher | Country Lead – Angola
  • Dr. Abigail Gomes
    Dr. Abigail Gomes
    Medical Doctor | Country Coordinator – Angola

Sudan

  • Awad Mohamed MB, MSc, MD, FRCP, FESC, FACC. FSCAI
    Awad Mohamed MB, MSc, MD, FRCP, FESC, FACC. FSCAI
    Consultant Cardiologist | Former President, Sudan Heart Society | Country Lead – Sudan

Mali

  • Prof. Bourema Dembele
    Prof. Bourema Dembele
    Professor of Cardiology | University of Bamako | Consultant Cardiologist | Country Lead – Mali

Niger

  • Dr. Bonkano Ousseina
    Dr. Bonkano Ousseina
    Interventional Cardiologist | President, Association of Young Cardiologists of Africa (AJCA) | Country Lead – Niger
  • Dr. Ismaël Oumarou
    Dr. Ismaël Oumarou
    Cardiologist | Country Coordinator – Niger

Tunisia

  • Prof. Salem Abdessalem
    Prof. Salem Abdessalem
    Interventional Cardiologist | Immediate Past President, Tunisian Society of Cardiology and Cardiovascular Surgery (STCCCV) | Country Lead – Tunisia

Senegal

  • Dr. Serigne C. T NDAO
    Dr. Serigne C. T NDAO
    Interventional Cardiologist | Country Lead (Senegal)

Burundi

  • Dr. Constantin Nyamuzangura
    Dr. Constantin Nyamuzangura
    President, Burundian Society of Cardiology | President, National Council of the Medical Order of Burundi

Ghana

  • Dr. Lambert T. Appiah
    Dr. Lambert T. Appiah
    Secretary General, Ghanaian Society of Cardiology | Consultant Cardiologist, Ghana

Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)

  • Richie KIPENGE
    Richie KIPENGE
    Regional Lead – Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) | Cardiologist | Interventional Cardiology Fellow | Hypertension Specialist | Teaching & Research Assistant, University Clinics of Lubumbashi

Zimbabwe

  • Dr. Sameh Geress
    Dr. Sameh Geress
    Medical Doctor | Cardiologist | Country Lead – Zimbabwe

Sierra Leone

  • Dr. Joe Amara Koroma
    Dr. Joe Amara Koroma
    MD | Cardiologist | Country Lead – Sierra Leone
Prof. Leonard Mzee Ngunga
President, Kenya Cardiac Society

Prof. Leonard Mzee Ngunga is the President of the Kenya Cardiac Society, Cardiology Fellowship Director, and a Consultant Interventional Cardiologist at Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi. He is also a full-time faculty member in the Department of Medicine at Aga Khan University, where he plays a key role in training the next generation of cardiologists in East Africa.

Prof. Ngunga completed his Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBChB) at the University of Nairobi, followed by a Master of Medicine (MMed) in Internal Medicine at Aga Khan University, Nairobi. He later pursued advanced cardiology and interventional cardiology fellowships at the University of Alberta, Canada. In recognition of his contributions to cardiovascular medicine, he was elected a Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians (FRCP), Edinburgh.

His clinical expertise includes interventional cardiology, cardiac haemodynamics, complex cardiac device implantation and extraction, and the management of coronary artery disease. He also has strong interest in primary prevention of cardiovascular disease and improving cardiovascular outcomes in Africa.

In addition to his clinical practice, Prof. Ngunga is actively involved in teaching, research, and professional leadership. His teaching areas include general internal medicine, cardiovascular medicine, cardiac catheterization, electrocardiography, echocardiography, and research methods. His research interests include cardiac arrest, primary prevention of cardiovascular disease, and treatment of coronary artery disease.

He is a member of several professional organizations, including the Kenya Cardiac Society, European Society of Cardiology, Kenya Association of Physicians, Kenya Medical Association, and the Pan African Society of Cardiology (PASCAR). Through his leadership and academic work, he continues to contribute to strengthening cardiovascular care, training, and research across Africa.

Yubrine Gachemba, MSc, MMed
Consultant Cardiologist | Continental Lead – Cardiac Imaging & Diagnostics (Africa), Amyloidosis Africa

Dr. Yubrine Moraa Gachemba is a Consultant Cardiologist and Chief Cardiologist at Primecare Heart Clinic, The Nairobi Hospital. She has advanced subspecialty expertise in multimodality cardiac imaging, including advanced echocardiography, cardiac computed tomography (CT), and cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR), as well as structural heart disease and cardio-obstetrics.

She trained in cardiology within the United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS) and holds a Master of Science (MSc) in Preventive Cardiovascular Medicine from the University of South Wales, alongside a Postgraduate Diploma in Preventive Cardiovascular Medicine. She also completed her Master of Medicine (MMed) in Internal Medicine at the University of Nairobi. In addition, she holds a Cardiology Fellowship from the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh, with a focus on multimodality cardiac imaging and cardio-obstetrics .

Her work focuses on imaging-guided clinical decision-making, including diagnosis, risk stratification, and timing of intervention in complex cardiovascular disease. Her areas of interest include women’s cardiovascular health and pregnancy-associated heart disease.

In addition to clinical practice, she is involved in research, registries, and medical education related to cardiovascular care and imaging. Her work includes collaboration across clinical care, academic research, and health systems strengthening initiatives in African settings.

She serves as Continental Lead – Cardiac Imaging & Diagnostics (Africa) within Amyloidosis Africa. In this role, she contributes to imaging-based diagnostic approaches for cardiac amyloidosis, supports the development of diagnostic pathways and standardized frameworks, and participates in registry and implementation-focused initiatives. She is also involved in training and capacity-building for clinicians and imaging specialists across multiple African countries and contributes to clinical and strategic activities within Kenya.

George Otieno, MD, MSc
Director of Education & Clinical Training

Dr. George Otieno is a consultant physician–cardiologist and academic clinician who contributes to Amyloidosis Africa as Clinical Education & Training Advisor, supporting initiatives that strengthen clinician awareness, professional education, and capacity building in cardiovascular care across the continent.

He is a Consultant Physician–Cardiologist at AIC Kijabe Hospital, where he manages complex cardiovascular conditions and performs advanced diagnostic and interventional procedures, including cardiac catheterization, pacemaker implantation, echocardiography, Holter monitoring, and exercise stress testing. In addition to clinical practice, he actively mentors junior doctors and medical officers and promotes continuous professional development through clinical teaching and multidisciplinary collaboration.

Dr. Otieno also serves as a Lecturer in the Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics at Kenyatta University, where he teaches undergraduate and postgraduate medical students, supervises clinical rotations, and contributes to curriculum development and academic research. His work emphasizes evidence-based medicine, professional ethics, and the development of future healthcare leaders.

He plays an active leadership role in the cardiovascular community as Assistant Treasurer and Board Member of the Kenya Cardiac Society, contributing to governance, professional development initiatives, and efforts to advance cardiovascular awareness and prevention programs in Kenya.

Earlier in his career, Dr. Otieno served as a Technical Advisor and Clinical Mentor with the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, where he provided nationwide mentorship and training to clinicians on HIV and tuberculosis management, helping strengthen clinical capacity and improve quality of care across multiple health facilities in Kenya.

Dr. Otieno completed a Cardiology Fellowship at The Karen Hospital, holds a Master’s degree in Internal Medicine from the University of Nairobi, and earned a subspecialty certificate in Heart Failure from Cardiff University. His academic and clinical work includes several peer-reviewed publications in cardiology, critical care, and health systems research.

Through his role with Amyloidosis Africa, Dr. Otieno contributes to strengthening clinician education, supporting training initiatives, and promoting improved recognition of complex cardiovascular conditions, including cardiac amyloidosis, across African healthcare systems.

Dr. Hazel Mburu
Consultant Cardiologist | Regional Coordinator – Eldoret (Kenya) | Medical Writing Support

Dr. Hazel Nyambura Mburu is a highly regarded cardiologist based in Eldoret, Kenya, currently serving at LifeCare Multispeciality Hospital as an in-house specialist in cardiovascular care. She also contributes to the Amyloidosis Africa initiative, supporting efforts to improve awareness, early diagnosis, and clinical management of cardiac amyloidosis in Kenya.

With over 11 years of clinical experience across both public and private healthcare sectors, Dr. Mburu has developed strong expertise in the prevention and management of complex cardiovascular conditions. Her clinical practice spans adult cardiology, pediatric cardiology, vascular diseases, and internal medicine, enabling a comprehensive approach to patient care across different age groups and disease profiles.

Dr. Mburu holds a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MB.Ch.B) and a Master of Medicine in Internal Medicine (M.Med) from the University of Nairobi. Her training has equipped her with a solid foundation in both general and specialized medical care, with a focus on cardiovascular disease management.

Based at LifeCare Multispeciality Hospital in Eldoret, she provides patient-centered care in a well-equipped, 24-hour clinical environment. She is known for her thorough clinical approach, clear communication with patients, and strong commitment to long-term health outcomes.

In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Mburu remains actively engaged in the cardiology community, including participation in national forums such as the Kenya Cardiac Society Congress. Through her role, she contributes to strengthening clinical networks and advancing cardiovascular care initiatives within Kenya and across the region.

Rasha Abayazeed, MD, PhD
Regional Coordinator – Alexandria (Egypt)

Dr. Rasha Mohamed Abayazeed Hassan is a distinguished cardiologist and academic based at Alexandria University, where she currently serves as a Lecturer in Cardiology and Angiology. With a strong foundation in both clinical practice and academic medicine, she brings extensive expertise in non-invasive cardiovascular imaging, clinical education, and cardiovascular research.

Dr. Rasha has played a pioneering role in advancing specialized cardiovascular care in Egypt. She is the founder of a dedicated Cardiac Amyloidosis Clinic at Alexandria University, demonstrating her early commitment to improving the recognition and management of this underdiagnosed condition. In addition, she is a co-founder of both cardio-obstetrics and cardio-oncology clinics, contributing to multidisciplinary care models that address complex cardiovascular conditions in high-risk patient populations.

Her academic journey includes a Doctorate in Cardiology (2020) and a Master’s degree in Cardiology (2014), both obtained with distinction, following her MBBS from Alexandria University. Her research has focused on advanced cardiac imaging and arrhythmias, with continued involvement in observational studies, registries, and postgraduate supervision.

Dr. Rasha has also led a Pfizer-supported observational study on cardiac amyloidosis, completed in 2025, further reinforcing her expertise and leadership in this field. Her research contributions are reflected in multiple peer-reviewed publications spanning echocardiography, cardio-oncology, and critical care cardiology.

An active member of both the European Society of Cardiology and the Egyptian Society of Cardiology, Dr. Rasha remains deeply engaged in the global cardiology community.

As Regional Lead – Alexandria, she plays a key role in advancing the mission of Amyloidosis Africa by supporting case identification, strengthening clinical awareness, and contributing to research and registry development across Egypt and the broader North African region.

Raghda E. Eldesouki, MD, MSc, PhD
Scientific Lead – Genetics & Precision Medicine

Dr. Raghda E. Eldesouki, MD, MSc, PhD, DipIBMed, is a medical geneticist and Assistant Professor specializing in precision medicine, genomics, and multi-omics research . She holds a Bachelor of Medicine (MB.B.Ch), a Master’s degree, and a PhD in Human/Medical Genetics from Suez Canal University, and has undertaken advanced academic and research training at institutions including Johns Hopkins Medicine and Tulane University School of Medicine. She also holds a diploma in business management and additional certifications in medical education and quality assurance.

With over 16 years of experience, her work spans clinical genomics, human genetics, and translational research, with a strong focus on variant selection, genotyping, interpretation, and clinically anchored reporting. She has led and contributed to projects involving whole genome sequencing, genomic surveillance, and integration of genetic data with clinical variables to generate actionable clinical and public health insights. Her technical expertise includes high-throughput screening, assay development, molecular diagnostics, and multi-omics data analysis, alongside the application of machine learning models in translational genomics.

Dr. Eldesouki has contributed to cancer genomics and biomarker discovery, including the development of predictive models and gene expression analyses, and has participated in clinically oriented research involving infectious diseases, immunology, and hematologic malignancies. Her work includes publications in peer-reviewed journals, patent contributions in bi-specific antibody development, and active roles as a peer reviewer for leading international journals such as Scientific Reports, BMC Pediatrics, and the Journal of Medical Virology.

In addition to her research, she has held leadership and administrative roles, including Assistant Director of Quality Assurance, contributing to institutional development, medical education, and research governance. She has also served as Director of Medical Genomics (voluntary) with the American Board of Precision Medicine, supporting initiatives in medical education, communication, and assessment design.

As Scientific Lead – Genetics & Precision Medicine at Amyloidosis Africa, Dr. Eldesouki leads the integration of genomic and precision medicine approaches into the initiative, supporting genetic awareness, variant interpretation frameworks, and the development of research strategies aligned with hereditary and underdiagnosed conditions such as cardiac amyloidosis. Her role focuses on bridging advanced genomic science with real-world clinical application across diverse African healthcare settings.

Dr. Mohamed ElWazir, MD, PhD
Regional Lead (Ismailia) | Lecturer of Cardiology | Visiting Research Fellow, Mayo Clinic

Dr. Mohamed Yasser ElWazir, MD, PhD, is a cardiologist, cardiovascular imaging specialist, and researcher with extensive expertise in advanced cardiac imaging, cardiac sarcoidosis, nuclear cardiology, echocardiography, and artificial intelligence applications in cardiovascular medicine. He serves as Regional Lead (Ismailia) and is currently a Lecturer of Cardiology at the Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Egypt, as well as a Visiting Research Fellow at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota.

Dr. ElWazir holds a PhD in Cardiology from Suez Canal University, with part of his doctoral research conducted at Mayo Clinic. He has extensive clinical and research experience in cardiac PET, cardiac SPECT, cardiac MRI, echocardiography, and management of complex cardiovascular diseases. His work has particularly focused on cardiac sarcoidosis, multimodality cardiovascular imaging, and AI-driven cardiovascular diagnostics.

He has authored and co-authored numerous peer-reviewed scientific publications in leading international journals, including studies related to cardiac sarcoidosis, cardiovascular imaging, machine learning, nuclear cardiology, and digital health innovation. In addition to his clinical and academic expertise, he has strong experience in medical statistics, machine learning, software development, and healthcare technology solutions.

Prof. Dr. Magdy Abdelhamid, MD, PhD
Professor of Cardiovascular Medicine | Chair, ESC Task Force North Africa & Middle East

Professor of Cardiovascular Medicine | Cairo University, Egypt

Prof. Dr. Magdy Abdelhamid is a highly experienced cardiologist and academic leader with over three decades of expertise in cardiovascular medicine. He serves as Professor of Cardiology at Cairo University, where he has been actively involved in clinical practice, teaching, and research since 1989.

In addition to his academic role, he holds a regional leadership position as Chair of the Task Force for North Africa and the Middle East at the European Society of Cardiology, contributing to the advancement of cardiovascular care and collaboration across the region.

Prof. Abdelhamid brings extensive clinical and strategic insight in cardiovascular diseases, with strong experience in hospital-based care, clinical education, and regional cardiovascular initiatives. His expertise and regional perspective are highly valuable in supporting the scientific direction and development of Amyloidosis Africa, particularly in strengthening collaboration and advancing awareness of cardiac amyloidosis across North Africa and the broader region.

Dr Hanaa Abdelaziz
Regional Lead – Mansoura, Egypt | Lecturer of Cardiovascular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University | Cardiologist

Dr Hanaa Mahmoud Mohammad Abdelaziz is a cardiologist and academic researcher in cardiovascular medicine based in Mansoura, Egypt. She currently serves as a Lecturer in the Department of Cardiovascular Medicine at Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, where she is actively involved in clinical cardiology, cardiovascular imaging, teaching, and scientific research.

Her clinical and research interests include echocardiography, clinical cardiology, heart failure, electrocardiography, cardiomyopathies, hypertension, myocardial infarction, and cardiac imaging. She has contributed to several cardiovascular research publications, including studies on epicardial fat volume assessment in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), cardiac MRI strain analysis in mitral stenosis, and the cardiovascular effects of Ramadan intermittent fasting among hemodialysis patients.

Dr Abdelaziz is actively engaged in cardiovascular imaging and translational cardiovascular research, particularly in advanced imaging applications related to heart failure and structural heart disease.

As Regional Lead – Mansoura, Egypt within Amyloidosis Africa, Dr Hanaa Mahmoud Mohammad Abdelaziz supports regional scientific collaboration, cardiovascular awareness initiatives, research development, and efforts aimed at strengthening early recognition and diagnosis of complex cardiovascular diseases, including cardiac amyloidosis, across Egypt and the wider region.

Ali Elzieny
AI, Digitalization & Core Lab Lead | Cardiologist | Clinical Research Fellow, Boston University School of Medicine | Cardiovascular Imaging & AI Research Specialist
Dr Ali Elzieny is a cardiologist and medical imaging researcher with expertise in cardiovascular medicine, quantitative imaging processing, artificial intelligence, and digital health innovation. He currently serves as a Data Consultant and former Clinical Research Fellow at Boston University School of Medicine, where his work focuses on integrating AI and machine learning into medical imaging to improve early disease detection and diagnostic accuracy.

His research interests include advanced cardiac imaging, echocardiography, image processing, quantitative imaging analysis, and AI-assisted diagnostic technologies. Dr Elzieny has contributed to multiple research projects involving complex multiparameter imaging datasets, computational imaging analysis, and digital cardiovascular research applications.

He previously worked as a cardiologist in Egypt at Utopia Clinics in the Red Sea region, Misr Hospital in South Sinai, and South Sinai Hospital. He also served as a Research Associate at Boston University School of Medicine before advancing to his current academic and research roles.

Dr Elzieny earned his MBBCh in Medicine and Surgery from Mansoura University and completed a Master of Science in Cardiology and Angiology at Menoufia University.

Within Amyloidosis Africa, Dr Ali Elzieny supports the organization’s strategic efforts in artificial intelligence, digitalization, imaging innovation, and advanced cardiovascular data systems. He contributes to the development of AI-enabled cardiovascular research initiatives, digital imaging workflows, and collaborative research infrastructure aimed at strengthening early diagnosis and precision cardiovascular medicine across Africa. He also supports the Core Laboratory (Core Lab) activities related to imaging analysis, quantitative data interpretation, and multicenter cardiovascular imaging standardization.

Prof. Nawal Doghmi
Consultant Cardiologist | Professor of Medicine | Country Lead – Morocco

Dr. Nawal Doghmi is a Consultant Cardiologist and Professor of Medicine at Mohammed V University in Rabat, and a Senior Cardiologist at CHU Ibn Sina. She is widely recognized as a leading figure in Moroccan cardiology, with a strong focus on non-invasive cardiac diagnostics and advanced cardiovascular imaging.

Her clinical and academic work is centered on improving diagnostic precision in complex cardiovascular diseases through multimodality imaging. She has contributed extensively to the field of cardiac imaging, particularly in stress echocardiography, where her research has evaluated the safety and diagnostic performance of both exercise and pharmacological (dobutamine) stress testing within the Moroccan population. Her work also extends to cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR), with a focus on structural heart diseases such as isolated left ventricular non-compaction.

Dr. Doghmi has a strong research portfolio covering a range of complex and often under-recognized cardiovascular conditions, including arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy, Takotsubo syndrome, and cardiorenal syndrome. Her academic contributions reflect a consistent focus on bridging clinical cardiology with advanced diagnostic methodologies, supporting earlier and more accurate disease identification.

Her training includes a Doctor of Medicine degree from the Faculty of Medicine in Casablanca, complemented by multiple specialized international diplomas. She holds certifications in pediatric and congenital cardiology from Paris Descartes University, echocardiography from the University of Bordeaux Segalen, and vascular ultrasonography from Sorbonne University. This multidisciplinary training enables her to manage both adult and pediatric cardiovascular conditions, including advanced applications such as fetal echocardiography.

In addition to her clinical and academic roles, Dr. Doghmi plays an active leadership role in the Moroccan Society of Cardiology (SMC), where she serves as Deputy General Secretary and leads the Cardiac Imaging Section. In this capacity, she contributes to shaping national standards in cardiovascular diagnostics and advancing the role of imaging in clinical decision-making across Morocco.

Clinically, she practices at CHU Ibn Sina in Rabat, including Hôpital Avicenne and the Department of Cardiology B, where she is involved in both patient care and academic training of future cardiologists.

Within Amyloidosis Africa, Dr. Nawal Doghmi serves as Country Lead (Morocco), where she supports national awareness efforts, engages cardiology networks, and contributes to multi-national research initiatives and future clinical trials. Her expertise in cardiac imaging and complex cardiovascular diagnostics is particularly relevant to improving early recognition and diagnostic pathways for cardiac amyloidosis across the region.

Prof. Dr. Zainab Raissuni
Head of Cardiology Department | Tangier University Hospital, Morocco

Dr. Zainab Raissuni, MD, PhD, FESC, is a cardiologist, academic physician, and researcher with expertise in cardiovascular imaging and heart failure management. She serves as Professor of Cardiology and Chair of the Department of Cardiology at the University Hospital of Tangier in Morocco, where she is actively involved in clinical care, medical education, and cardiovascular research.

Dr. Raissuni holds both a Doctor of Medicine (MD) and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), reflecting her combined background in clinical medicine and scientific research. She is also a Fellow of the European Society of Cardiology (FESC), recognizing her contributions to cardiovascular medicine and professional leadership within the cardiology community.

Her work focuses on advancing cardiovascular diagnostics, strengthening heart failure management, and promoting clinical research and education. Through her academic and clinical leadership, she contributes to improving cardiovascular care and training future healthcare professionals in the region.

Within Amyloidosis Africa, Dr. Raissuni serves on the Advocacy Board, supporting initiatives that aim to increase awareness of cardiac amyloidosis, encourage collaboration among clinicians, and promote improved recognition of the disease within the broader heart failure landscape across Africa.

Dr. Hasnaa Belghiti
President-Elect, Moroccan Society of Cardiology | Fellow of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC)

Dr. Hasnaa Belghiti is a cardiologist based in Rabat, Morocco, with extensive clinical and academic experience in cardiovascular medicine. She practices cardiology at a cardiovascular diagnostic and consultation clinic in Rabat and has long been involved in clinical cardiology, cardiovascular imaging, and patient-centered cardiovascular care.

Dr. Belghiti currently serves as President-Elect of the Moroccan Society of Cardiology, reflecting her leadership role within the national cardiology community and her commitment to advancing cardiovascular care and professional collaboration in Morocco. She is also a Fellow of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) and a board member of the ESC Cardio-Oncology Council, where she contributes to international initiatives aimed at improving the understanding and management of cardiovascular complications related to cancer therapies.

Her areas of clinical and academic expertise include cardio-oncology, sports cardiology, echocardiography, cardiovascular rehabilitation, and clinical research. Dr. Belghiti holds specialized certifications in these fields, including advanced training in cardio-oncology from Sorbonne University, sports cardiology, cardiac rehabilitation, and echocardiography through postgraduate programs at the University of Bordeaux.

In addition to her clinical practice, Dr. Belghiti plays an active role in medical education. She serves as the Coordinator of the Cardio-Oncology Diploma and the Sports Cardiology Diploma programs at the International University of Rabat (UIR), contributing to the training of healthcare professionals in emerging cardiovascular subspecialties and strengthening academic capacity in cardiovascular medicine.

Dr. Belghiti has also held leadership roles in professional organizations, including serving as Past President of the Association of Private Cardiologists of Rabat and surrounding regions, and she has been involved in cardiology practice within the Moroccan healthcare system for many years.

Through her clinical leadership, academic contributions, and engagement with international cardiology networks, Dr. Belghiti actively supports initiatives aimed at improving cardiovascular awareness, education, and research collaboration. As a member of the Amyloidosis Africa Advisory Board, she contributes to advancing efforts to improve awareness, early diagnosis, and collaborative research on cardiac amyloidosis across the African continent.

Dr. Soraya Bachtarzi
Cardiologist – Associate Professor | Multimodality Cardiac Imaging & Adult Congenital Heart Disease | Country Lead – Algeria

Dr. Soraya Bachtarzi is a cardiologist and Assistant Professor based in Algeria, specializing in multimodality cardiac imaging and adult congenital heart disease . Trained in advanced non-invasive cardiac imaging and congenital cardiology at the University of Bordeaux, she combines clinical practice with academic engagement. Her work focuses on enhancing diagnostic pathways and clinical decision-making through imaging, particularly in complex cardiovascular conditions.

Souhila OUABDESSELAM, MD, Phd
Country Lead – Algeria | Consultant Cardiologist | Cardio-Oncologist | Cardio-Geriatrician | Lecturer, University of Algiers
Dr. Souhila Ouabdesselam is a Consultant Cardiologist, cardio-oncologist, and cardio-geriatrician based in Algiers, Algeria, with extensive experience in cardiovascular medicine, academic teaching, and clinical research. She currently works at CHU Mustapha as a Consultant Cardiologist, where she has been practicing since 2012, and serves as a Lecturer at University of Algiers. She is also a hospital-university assistant professor affiliated with the University of Algiers, contributing to both undergraduate and postgraduate medical education.

Dr. Ouabdesselam has specialized expertise in cardio-oncology and cardio-geriatric medicine, with a strong focus on hypertension, cardiovascular imaging, and clinical research. Her academic and clinical background spans more than 15 years across hospital medicine, university teaching, and scientific investigation. Prior to her current academic and hospital appointments, she worked as a cardiologist at EPH Thenia in Boumerdes, Algeria, and also served as a Medical Director within the pharmaceutical sector in Algiers.

She completed advanced postgraduate training in Cardio-Oncology at Aix-Marseille University and is currently pursuing additional specialization in Cardio-Geriatrics through Sorbonne University. She earned her specialization in cardiovascular diseases from the University of Algiers and obtained her Doctor of Medicine degree from the National Institute of Medical Sciences in Algiers.

Dr. Ouabdesselam has contributed to scientific publications addressing cardiovascular imaging and hypertension management, including studies on global longitudinal strain decline in hypertensive patients with preserved ejection fraction and ambulatory blood pressure monitoring practices in Algeria.

As Country Lead for Algeria within Amyloidosis Africa, Dr. Souhila Ouabdesselam supports scientific collaboration, cardiovascular awareness initiatives, research development, and regional engagement across North Africa, contributing to efforts aimed at improving awareness, diagnosis, and research capacity for cardiac amyloidosis and related cardiovascular diseases across the African continent.

Prof. Félicité Kamdem
Professor of Cardiology | President, Cameroonian Society of Cardiology

Professor Félicité Kamdem is a distinguished Professor of Medicine and Cardiology based in Cameroon, recognized for her clinical excellence, academic leadership, and impactful research in cardiovascular health across sub-Saharan Africa. She serves as a Physician and Adult and Paediatric Cardiologist at the Douala General Hospital (Hôpital Général de Douala), a leading tertiary referral center in the region.

She is also a Professor within the Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of Douala, where she plays a key role in training, mentoring, and supervising the next generation of healthcare professionals and researchers in cardiology and internal medicine.

Professor Kamdem currently serves as the Cameroon Society of Cardiology, where she provides national leadership in advancing cardiovascular care, strengthening professional collaboration, and promoting research and education across Cameroon. Through this role, she contributes to shaping the strategic direction of cardiology practice and policy at the national level.

Her research portfolio addresses critical priorities in African cardiovascular health, including hypertension management, congenital heart disease, cardiac outcomes following interventions, and cardiovascular conditions in pregnancy. She has also contributed to innovative approaches such as digital health interventions and has supervised doctoral research focused on improving quality of life among patients with cardiovascular diseases.

With over 60 peer-reviewed publications and a strong citation record, Professor Kamdem has significantly influenced clinical practice and research in the region. Her work continues to inform evidence-based strategies and improve patient outcomes in resource-constrained settings.

As an Advisory Board Member, she brings deep expertise in clinical cardiology, academic research, and health system challenges in sub-Saharan Africa. Her perspective is instrumental in guiding strategic priorities, strengthening scientific rigor, and ensuring that initiatives are aligned with the realities of cardiovascular care across the continent.

Prof. Sylvie Ndongo Amougou
Professor of Cardiology | Vice Dean, Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences | University of Yaoundé I | Country Lead – Cameroon

Prof. Sylvie Laurette Evelyne Ndongo Amougou is a cardiologist, academic physician, and researcher based in Yaoundé, Cameroon. She is a Professor at the Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the University of Yaoundé I and practices at the Yaoundé University Teaching Hospital (CHU Yaoundé). Her work focuses on cardiovascular health, epidemiology, and public health in Cameroon.

Her research addresses key cardiovascular and population health challenges in Africa, including hypertension, heart failure, cardiomyopathy, and cardiovascular risk factors. She has also contributed to studies examining the relationship between infectious diseases, oral health, and cardiovascular outcomes.

Through her academic and clinical work, Prof. Ndongo Amougou contributes to strengthening cardiovascular research, medical education, and clinical training in Cameroon and across the region.

Kemayou Francine
Regional Lead – Douala, Cameroon | Cardiologist | Cardio-Oncologist | Consultant in Cardio-Oncology

Dr Kemayou Francine is a cardiologist and cardio-oncologist based in Douala, Cameroon, with specialized expertise in cardio-oncology and cardiovascular medicine. She currently works at Cardiology and Cardio Oncology Office as a cardio-oncologist and also serves as a Consultant in Cardio-Oncology at Cameroon Oncology Center.

She completed advanced training in cardio-oncology at Sorbonne University and obtained her cardiology specialization from CHU Hassan II in Morocco. She also holds a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree.

Dr Francine’s professional interests include cardio-oncology, cardiovascular complications associated with cancer therapies, cardiac evaluation of oncology patients, and multidisciplinary cardiovascular care. She is committed to strengthening cardiovascular awareness, improving access to specialized cardiac care, and advancing collaborative clinical research initiatives across Africa.

As Regional Lead – Douala within Amyloidosis Africa, Dr Kemayou Francine supports regional scientific collaboration, awareness initiatives, cardiovascular research development, and efforts aimed at improving the diagnosis and management of complex cardiovascular diseases, including cardiac amyloidosis, across Central and Francophone Africa.

jean Timnou Bekouti
Regional Lead – Douala, Cameroon | Interventional Electrophysiologist | Cardiologist | Cardiac Pacing Specialist

Dr Jean Timnou Bekouti is an interventional electrophysiologist, cardiologist, and cardiac pacing specialist based in Douala, Cameroon, with advanced expertise in cardiac rhythm disorders, cardiovascular intensive care, hereditary cardiac diseases, and adult echocardiography. He currently works at the Centre de Cardiologie Interventionnelle de Douala as a specialist cardiologist, interventional electrophysiologist, and cardiac pacing specialist.

Dr Bekouti completed advanced fellowship training in electrophysiology and cardiac pacing at Toulouse University Hospital. He also obtained specialized university diplomas in hereditary cardiac diseases from Claude Bernard University Lyon 1, cardiovascular intensive care and emergencies from University of Toulouse, and syncope and transient loss of consciousness from Aix-Marseille University.

His clinical interests include arrhythmia management, cardiac pacing, interventional electrophysiology, inherited cardiac diseases, cardiovascular emergencies, echocardiography, and advanced cardiovascular care.

As Regional Lead – Douala, Cameroon within Amyloidosis Africa, Dr Jean Timnou Bekouti supports regional cardiovascular awareness initiatives, scientific collaboration, clinical research development, and efforts focused on improving the recognition and management of complex cardiovascular diseases, including cardiac amyloidosis, across Central and Francophone Africa.

Dr. Okechukwu Ogah
President, Nigerian Cardiac Society | President, African Heart Failure Association

Dr. Okechukwu S. Ogah MSc, PhD, FWACP, FACP, FESC, FACC, FNCS is a Senior Lecturer in Cardiology at the Department of Medicine, University of Ibadan, and Consultant Physician/Cardiologist in the Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria. He holds a PhD in Medicine from the University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa, and an MSc in Epidemiology and Medical Statistics and a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS), both from the University of Ibadan. He is a Fellow of the West African College of Physicians, the Nigerian Cardiac Society, the European Society of Cardiology, and the American College of Cardiology.

He is the Chair of the African Heart Failure Association, a Bernard Lown Visiting Scholar at the Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, and the current President of the Nigerian Cardiac Society.

His research interests include surveys on cardiovascular risk factors, national heart disease registries, continental heart failure registries, pericarditis, rheumatic heart disease, pulmonary hypertension, and systemic hypertension. He has over 120 publications in peer-reviewed journals. He is married with children.

A/Prof. Blanche Cupido
President, South African Heart Association | Associate Professor of Cardiology, University of Cape Town

A/Prof. Blanche Cupido is President of SA Heart (South African Heart Association) and an Associate Professor of Cardiology at the University of Cape Town, South Africa. She is also a practicing cardiologist at the cardiac clinic at Groote Schuur Hospital. Her clinical expertise includes coronary intervention, echocardiography, adult congenital heart disease, and advanced heart failure management.

She completed her medical degree at the University of Cape Town and holds fellowships in Internal Medicine and Cardiology from the Colleges of Medicine of South Africa. She also earned a Master of Philosophy in Cardiology from the University of Cape Town and completed a fellowship in Adult Congenital Heart Disease at Leeds NHS Trust in the United Kingdom. In addition, she holds certification in Advanced Heart Failure Management from the ESC Academy and the University of Zurich.

A/Prof. Cupido is deeply committed to academic medicine and the training of future cardiologists, with a strong focus on strengthening cardiology education and clinical training across South Africa and the African continent.

Dr.Kefelegn Dejene
Associate Professor of Medicine & Interventional Cardiologist | Former President, Ethiopian Society of Cardiac Professionals | Country Lead – Ethiopia

Dr. Kefelegn Dejene is an experienced interventional cardiologist and academic clinician based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. He currently serves at the Cardiac Center Ethiopia, where he has been actively involved in delivering advanced cardiovascular care since 2016.

In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Dejene holds the position of Assistant Professor of Medicine, contributing to the training and mentorship of the next generation of healthcare professionals. His expertise spans a wide range of cardiovascular diseases, with a strong focus on interventional cardiology.

He previously served as President of the Ethiopian Society of Cardiac Professionals, where he played a key leadership role in advancing cardiovascular care, professional development, and national collaboration in Ethiopia.

Dr. Dejene completed a Fellowship in International Cardiology at Narayana Institute of Cardiac Sciences in India, further strengthening his clinical and procedural expertise in modern cardiology practice.

Sura Markos, MD, FACC
Clinical Lead – Heart Failure & Diagnostic Pathways (Ethiopia)

Cardiologist | Heart Failure Specialist | Assistant Professor of Medicine
Clinical Lead – Heart Failure & Diagnostic Pathways (Ethiopia)

Dr. Sura Markos is an adult cardiologist, internist, and Assistant Professor of Medicine based in Ethiopia, with specialized expertise in heart failure and complex cardiovascular disease management. She is a PASCAR-certified Heart Failure Specialist and a Certified Clinical Lipidologist, combining advanced clinical training with a strong academic and research background.

She currently serves at Hawassa University Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, where she is actively involved in patient care, medical education, and clinical research. Her work focuses on improving the diagnosis and management of cardiovascular diseases in resource-limited settings, with particular interest in advancing context-specific approaches to complex conditions such as cardiac amyloidosis.

Dr. Sura has contributed to academic medicine through teaching, mentorship, and research, and has recently published work addressing the challenges of diagnosing and managing cardiac amyloidosis in low-resource environments. Her clinical and academic experience positions her as a key contributor to strengthening diagnostic pathways and improving awareness across the region.

Within Amyloidosis Africa, Dr. Sura contributes to the development of context-adapted diagnostic approaches, supports clinical education initiatives, and plays a role in advancing multi-country research efforts and registry-based work.

Prof. Mauer Gonçalves, MD, MBA, PhD
Cardiologist | Professor of Medicine | Clinical Researcher | Country Lead – Angola

Dr. Mauer Gonçalves is a Consultant Cardiologist, academic, and clinical researcher based in Luanda, Angola, with extensive experience across clinical practice, medical education, and research.

He currently serves as Head of the Centro de Estudos Avançados em Educação e Formação Médica at Universidade Agostinho Neto (UAN), where he leads initiatives in advanced medical training and capacity development. He is also a Professor and Researcher at the Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Agostinho Neto, contributing to the academic and scientific advancement of cardiovascular medicine in Angola.

Clinically, Dr. Gonçalves practices as a Cardiologist at Aliva Saúde, with a strong background in cardiology and cardiopneumology, supported by years of frontline clinical experience in major healthcare institutions including Hospital Américo Boavida.

In the research domain, he is actively engaged as a Scientific Research Collaborator with ClinCoord Services, contributing to international clinical research efforts and strengthening cross-continental collaboration.

Dr. Gonçalves holds a PhD in Biomedical Sciences, an Executive MBA in Health Management, and foundational training in both Medicine and Cardiopneumology, reflecting a multidisciplinary profile that bridges clinical care, research, and health system leadership.

Within Amyloidosis Africa, he serves as Country Lead for Angola, where he supports national-level engagement in awareness, education, and research initiatives related to cardiac amyloidosis. His role contributes to strengthening regional collaboration, advancing early diagnosis, and aligning Angola with continental efforts in improving outcomes for patients with amyloidosis.

Dr. Abigail Gomes
Medical Doctor | Country Coordinator – Angola

Dr. Abigail Gomes is a medical doctor based in Luanda, Angola, with a growing interest in cardiovascular medicine and clinical leadership. She currently serves as Country Coordinator for Angola within the Amyloidosis Africa initiative, supporting efforts to improve awareness, education, and early recognition of cardiac amyloidosis in the region.

Dr. Gomes completed her Doctor of Medicine (MD) at Universidade Jean Piaget de Angola, where she developed a strong clinical foundation in internal medicine and cardiovascular care. During her clinical training at Hospital do Prenda, she gained practical experience in patient management across multiple specialties, including internal medicine, pediatrics, cardiology, and emergency care, contributing to clinical assessments, diagnosis, and treatment planning.

In addition to her clinical training, Dr. Gomes has demonstrated leadership and commitment to cardiovascular education. She previously served as Vice President of the Academic League of Cardiology and Cardiovascular Surgery, where she coordinated educational activities, supported research initiatives, and promoted engagement among medical students interested in cardiovascular medicine.

Dr. Gomes holds BLS, ACLS, and ITLS certifications, reflecting her dedication to emergency and acute cardiovascular care. Her professional interests include interventional cardiology, clinical research, and improving cardiovascular health outcomes in underserved populations.

Through her role with Amyloidosis Africa, Dr. Gomes contributes to strengthening clinician networks in Angola and supporting continental collaboration aimed at improving the recognition, diagnosis, and research of cardiac amyloidosis across Africa.

Awad Mohamed MB, MSc, MD, FRCP, FESC, FACC. FSCAI
Consultant Cardiologist | Former President, Sudan Heart Society | Country Lead – Sudan

Prof. Awad Abdalla Mohamed is a Consultant Interventional Cardiologist with extensive clinical, academic, and leadership experience spanning Sudan, Ireland, and the broader African continent. He currently practices at University Hospital Waterford in Ireland while maintaining strong academic and clinical ties to Sudan, including his role as Associate Professor of Cardiology at the University of Khartoum.

He holds advanced postgraduate qualifications in cardiology and cardiovascular science, including MSc degrees from Imperial College London and Trinity College Dublin, as well as a Doctorate in Medicine (DM) in Cardiovascular Science. He is a Fellow of multiple leading international bodies, including the Royal College of Physicians (FRCP), the European Society of Cardiology (FESC), the American College of Cardiology (FACC), and the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions (FSCAI).

Prof. Awad has held several high-impact leadership positions across Africa. He served as Secretary General of the Pan-African Society of Cardiology (PASCAR), President of the Sudan Heart Society, and Immediate Past Chairperson of the Pan-African Association of Structural and Interventional Cardiology. These roles reflect his strong influence in shaping cardiovascular care, policy, and collaboration across the continent.

His expertise lies in interventional cardiology, structural heart disease, and advancing cardiovascular care systems in resource-variable settings. He has been actively involved in initiatives aimed at improving access to life-saving interventions, including his role as a “Stent Save a Life” champion.

As Country Lead for Sudan, Prof. Awad Abdalla Mohamed supports national and regional efforts to improve awareness, early diagnosis, and clinical recognition of cardiac amyloidosis. His role includes engaging cardiologists and heart failure specialists, contributing to multi-country research initiatives, and supporting the expansion of registry-based and collaborative studies across Africa. Leveraging his continental leadership experience and strong professional network, he plays a key role in bridging local clinical practice with pan-African research and implementation efforts.

Prof. Bourema Dembele
Professor of Cardiology | University of Bamako | Consultant Cardiologist | Country Lead – Mali

Professor Bourema Dembélé is a Malian cardiologist, academic leader, and clinical researcher dedicated to advancing cardiovascular medicine in Mali and across West Africa. He serves as a Professor of Cardiology at the Faculty of Medicine and Odontostomatology of the University of Bamako, where he contributes to the training of future physicians and cardiology specialists while actively participating in clinical and academic research.

Prof. Dembélé is also a consultant cardiologist in Bamako, providing specialized cardiovascular care and supporting the development of cardiology services in a region where the burden of cardiovascular disease is rapidly increasing. His clinical and research work focuses on the epidemiology, diagnosis, and management of cardiovascular diseases within African populations, particularly in resource-limited settings.

Throughout his career, Prof. Dembélé has contributed to numerous scientific publications and collaborative research projects addressing major cardiovascular health challenges in sub-Saharan Africa. His areas of interest include hypertension, heart failure, cardiomyopathies, cardiovascular complications of infectious diseases, and the broader epidemiology of cardiovascular disease in African populations. His work has helped improve understanding of the changing cardiovascular disease landscape in West Africa and has supported efforts to strengthen clinical practice and prevention strategies.

In addition to his clinical and academic responsibilities, Prof. Dembélé plays an important role in capacity building and professional mentorship, helping train the next generation of physicians and cardiologists. Through his engagement in professional networks and regional collaborations, he continues to support initiatives aimed at improving cardiovascular care, research capacity, and medical education across Africa.

As Country Lead for Mali in the Amyloidosis Africa Initiative, Prof. Dembélé supports efforts to increase awareness and recognition of cardiac amyloidosis among healthcare professionals in the region. His involvement contributes to expanding collaboration, promoting education, and encouraging research efforts aimed at improving early diagnosis and understanding of cardiac amyloidosis across the African continent.

Dr. Bonkano Ousseina
Interventional Cardiologist | President, Association of Young Cardiologists of Africa (AJCA) | Country Lead – Niger

Dr. Ousseina Bonkano is an interventional cardiologist based in Niamey, Niger, and currently serves as President of the Association of Young Cardiologists of Africa (AJCA). She previously held leadership roles as Vice-President of AJCA and President of the Association of Resident Doctors of Niger, and she has also been elected Vice-President of the National Order of Physicians of Niger (2025–2028). These positions reflect her strong commitment to advancing cardiovascular medicine, professional development, and collaboration across Africa.

Dr. Bonkano completed her medical and cardiology training across Niger, China, and Tunisia, developing expertise in cardiovascular imaging, coronary angiography, interventional cardiology, and the management of acute cardiovascular emergencies.

She currently practices as an interventional cardiologist in Niamey, where she provides specialized consultations and manages patients with coronary artery disease. Her clinical work includes performing coronary angiography and angioplasty with stent implantation, as well as interpreting ECG, echocardiography, and exercise testing. She is also actively involved in the multidisciplinary management of cardiovascular emergencies and patient follow-up.

Earlier in her career, Dr. Bonkano worked at the CHU de Lamordé in Niamey, where she participated in internal medicine and cardiology consultations, inpatient care, and emergency management of acute coronary syndromes. She also completed clinical training in Chinese university hospitals, gaining exposure to interventional cardiology procedures, catheterization laboratory practice, and cardiac surgery.

In addition to her clinical practice, she has contributed to international medical evacuation missions between Niger and Tunisia, coordinating patient transfers, preparing medical documentation, and supporting post-transfer follow-up.

Dr. Bonkano holds a Diplôme d’Études Spécialisées (DES) in Cardiology and has completed additional training in interventional cardiology and coronary angiography in China, along with certifications in cardiovascular imaging and clinical cardiology.

As Country Lead for Niger at Amyloidosis Africa, Dr. Bonkano supports initiatives aimed at strengthening awareness, education, and research collaboration on cardiac amyloidosis, helping improve recognition and care for patients with rare cardiovascular diseases across Africa.

Dr. Ismaël Oumarou
Cardiologist | Country Coordinator – Niger

Dr. Ismaël Oumarou is a cardiologist from Niger with training in cardiovascular medicine and clinical cardiology. He completed his medical education at the Latin American School of Medicine (ELAM) in Havana, Cuba, and later specialized in Cardiology at the Instituto de Cardiología y Cirugía Cardiovascular, where he obtained his postgraduate training in cardiovascular sciences.

His clinical work focuses on the diagnosis and management of cardiovascular diseases, including heart failure and structural heart disease. Dr. Oumarou has also pursued additional training in echocardiography, strengthening his expertise in cardiovascular imaging and diagnostic cardiology.

As Country Lead for Niger within Amyloidosis Africa, he supports efforts to raise awareness of cardiac amyloidosis among clinicians, facilitate communication with cardiology professionals, and encourage participation in collaborative initiatives such as physician surveys, education programs, and research discussions.

Through his involvement in the initiative, Dr. Oumarou contributes to building a growing network of clinicians across Africa working to improve recognition of cardiac amyloidosis within the broader heart failure landscape.

Prof. Salem Abdessalem
Interventional Cardiologist | Immediate Past President, Tunisian Society of Cardiology and Cardiovascular Surgery (STCCCV) | Country Lead – Tunisia

Prof. Salem Abdessalem is an experienced interventional cardiologist based in Tunis, Tunisia, with more than two decades of clinical practice, academic contribution, and leadership in cardiovascular medicine. He has been practicing at La Clinique Pasteur de Tunis since 1998, where he is actively involved in interventional cardiology and patient care . In parallel, he has held academic roles, including serving as Professeur agrégé at Hôpital La Rabta and the Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, contributing to the education and training of future cardiologists .

Prof. Abdessalem has played a significant leadership role in the cardiology community in Tunisia, having served as President of the Tunisian Society of Cardiology and Cardiovascular Surgery (STCCCV) and currently contributing as Immediate Past President. His leadership reflects a strong commitment to advancing cardiovascular care, professional collaboration, and scientific engagement at both national and regional levels .

Within Amyloidosis Africa, he serves as Country Lead for Tunisia, supporting national awareness and education efforts, facilitating engagement with key stakeholders, and contributing to multi-country research and registry-linked initiatives focused on improving the recognition and diagnosis of cardiac amyloidosis across Africa.

Dr. Serigne C. T NDAO
Interventional Cardiologist | Country Lead (Senegal)

Dr. Serigne C. T. NDAO is an interventional cardiologist with extensive clinical and academic training across Senegal and France. He is currently undertaking advanced fellowship training in complex coronary (CHIPS) and structural heart interventions at the Institut Cardiovasculaire Paris Sud (ICPS), reflecting a high level of subspecialty expertise in modern interventional cardiology.

He previously served as an Interventional Cardiologist at Hôpital Principal de Dakar, where he managed a wide spectrum of cardiovascular conditions, with a focus on invasive procedures, cardiac intensive care, and echocardiography. His earlier training includes a fellowship in interventional cardiology in France and a full cardiology residency at Aristide Le Dantec Hospital in Dakar, one of Senegal’s leading tertiary care centers.

Dr. NDAO holds advanced qualifications in structural and valvular interventional cardiology from Université de Lille and Université Paris-Est Créteil (UPEC), and earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from Université Cheikh Anta Diop de Dakar (UCAD).

Within Amyloidosis Africa, Dr. NDAO serves as the Country Lead for Senegal, contributing to efforts aimed at improving awareness, early diagnosis, and clinical research in cardiac amyloidosis. His dual exposure to European and West African healthcare systems positions him to play a key role in strengthening diagnostic pathways and advancing collaborative research initiatives in the region.

Dr. Constantin Nyamuzangura
President, Burundian Society of Cardiology | President, National Council of the Medical Order of Burundi

Dr. Constantin Nyamuzangura is the President of the Burundian Society of Cardiology and the Head of the National Council of the Medical Association of Burundi (CNOMB). He is actively involved in advancing human medicine and equitable access to healthcare, with a particular focus on cardiovascular health, which remains the leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide.

His work also addresses non-communicable diseases, with strong emphasis on prevention, innovation, and improving healthcare systems. Dr. Nyamuzangura practices as a cardiologist and, through his training and professional experience, has also developed interests as a medical entrepreneur.

He is deeply committed to strengthening healthcare leadership and innovation to improve access to quality cardiovascular care and public health outcomes.

Dr. Lambert T. Appiah
Secretary General, Ghanaian Society of Cardiology | Consultant Cardiologist, Ghana

Dr. Lambert Tetteh Appiah, FWACP, FESC, is a Consultant Cardiologist, clinical researcher, and academic leader in cardiovascular medicine in Ghana. He serves as a Senior Lecturer at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) and practices as a cardiologist at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH).

Dr. Appiah is a Principal Investigator and clinical trialist actively involved in cardiovascular research across Africa, with a focus on heart failure, cardiovascular epidemiology, and health systems strengthening. He plays key leadership roles as Chief Operating Officer (COO) of HeartLINK+ Global and COO of the G-ACT Foundation, contributing to initiatives that advance cardiovascular care, research, and training.

He also serves as the General Secretary of the Ghanaian Society of Cardiology (GSC) and is a Fogarty Scholar, reflecting his commitment to advancing global cardiovascular health, collaborative research, and capacity building across Africa.

Richie KIPENGE
Regional Lead – Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) | Cardiologist | Interventional Cardiology Fellow | Hypertension Specialist | Teaching & Research Assistant, University Clinics of Lubumbashi

Dr Richie Kipenge is a cardiologist, hypertension specialist, and interventional cardiology fellow based in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), with extensive experience in cardiovascular medicine, clinical care, academic teaching, and cardiovascular research. He currently works at Gecamines S.A. and serves as a Teaching and Research Assistant at University Clinics of Lubumbashi.

Dr Kipenge completed a fellowship in interventional cardiology at the Institut de Cardiologie d’Abidjan and holds a University Diploma (DIU) in arterial hypertension and cardiovascular and renal complications from University of Strasbourg. He also completed advanced training in epidemiology through the Institute of Public Health, Epidemiology and Development (ISPED).

His clinical and research interests include coronary artery disease, hypertension, heart failure, preventive cardiology, and interventional cardiovascular medicine. He combines clinical practice with academic and research activities focused on improving cardiovascular care and strengthening cardiovascular medicine in underserved settings.

As Regional Lead – Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) within Amyloidosis Africa, Dr Richie Kipenge supports regional cardiovascular awareness initiatives, scientific collaboration, research development, and efforts aimed at improving the recognition, diagnosis, and management of complex cardiovascular diseases, including cardiac amyloidosis, across Central Africa and the wider Francophone region.

Dr. Sameh Geress
Medical Doctor | Cardiologist | Country Lead – Zimbabwe

Dr. Sameh Said Geress is a cardiologist based in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. He is associated with clinical research, specifically related to amyloidosis, and contributes to generating Africa-led evidence to improve health outcomes. He works as a cardiologist specializing in heart care in the region.

Dr. Joe Amara Koroma
MD | Cardiologist | Country Lead – Sierra Leone

Dr. Joe Amara Koroma is a medical doctor and cardiology-trained physician with a strong interest in cardiovascular care, prevention, and health promotion. He serves as Country Lead for Sierra Leone in Amyloidosis Africa, supporting the expansion of awareness, clinician engagement, and collaborative initiatives on cardiac amyloidosis within the country.

He completed his medical training at the Latin American School of Medicine (ELAM), Cuba, where he graduated as one of the top-performing international medical students, receiving national recognition for academic excellence and leadership. He further pursued cardiology training at the Institute of Cardiology and Cardiovascular Surgery in Havana, gaining clinical exposure in cardiovascular disease management.

Dr. Koroma has demonstrated strong leadership throughout his training, serving as President of the African Students Union in Cuba and President of the Foreign Students Nationality Council, where he played a key role in representing international students and promoting collaboration across diverse communities.

His interests include preventive cardiology, health promotion, and improving access to cardiovascular care in underserved populations. Through his role in Amyloidosis Africa, he contributes to strengthening early awareness, clinician engagement, and future research collaborations in Sierra Leone, supporting efforts to improve recognition of underdiagnosed cardiovascular conditions across West Africa.