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Amyloidosis Africa Leadership

Amyloidosis Africa is guided by a multidisciplinary advisory board of cardiologists and cardiovascular experts representing different regions of Africa

Executive Leadership

The leadership team of Amyloidosis Africa guides the strategic direction of the initiative and coordinates its activities across the continent. The team brings together expertise in clinical research, cardiovascular medicine, and health systems collaboration to support awareness, education, and research related to cardiac amyloidosis in Africa.

  • John H. Dawod
    John H. Dawod
    Founder & Coordinator-Amyloidosis Africa | Founder & Chairman-CRK Clinical Research Key NGO
  • Dr. Anders Barasa
    Dr. Anders Barasa
    Clinical Lead & Advisory Board Director | Cardiologist & Heart Failure Specialist
  • Dr. Christine Mwachari
    Dr. Christine Mwachari
    Research & Development (R&D) Lead | Principal Research Scientist, KEMRI

African Advisory Board

The Advisory Board is composed of cardiologists, heart failure specialists, and researchers from different regions of Africa. The board provides scientific guidance, regional perspectives, and strategic input to support the development of Amyloidosis Africa and strengthen collaboration across the continent.

 

Members represent diverse professional backgrounds, including clinical practice, academic medicine, and cardiovascular research.

  • Prof. Leonard Mzee Ngunga
    Prof. Leonard Mzee Ngunga
    President, Kenya Cardiac Society
  • Dr. Okechukwu Ogah
    Dr. Okechukwu Ogah
    President, Nigerian Cardiac Society | Chair, African Heart Failure Association
  • A/Prof. Blanche Cupido
    A/Prof. Blanche Cupido
    President, South African Heart Association | Associate Professor of Cardiology, University of Cape Town
  • Dr. Constantin Nyamuzangura
    Dr. Constantin Nyamuzangura
    President, Burundian Society of Cardiology | Head, National Council of the Medical Association of Burundi
  • Dr. Hasnaa Belghiti
    Dr. Hasnaa Belghiti
    President-Elect, Moroccan Society of Cardiology | Fellow of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC)
  • Prof. Félicité Kamdem
    Prof. Félicité Kamdem
    Professor of Cardiology | President, Société Camerounaise de Cardiologie
  • Prof. Dr. Zainab Raissuni
    Prof. Dr. Zainab Raissuni
    Chair, Department of Cardiology | University Hospital of Tangier, Morocco
  • Yubrine Moraa Gachemba, MSc, MMed
    Yubrine Moraa Gachemba, MSc, MMed
    Consultant Cardiologist | Continental Lead – Cardiac Imaging & Diagnostics (Africa), Amyloidosis Africa
  • Prof. Yasser Hosny
    Prof. Yasser Hosny
    Professor of Cardiology, Egypt
  • Dr. Mazou NGOU TEMGOUA
    Dr. Mazou NGOU TEMGOUA
    Cardiologist & Clinical Epidemiologist | University of Yaoundé I, Cameroon | Regional Lead, Francophone Africa
  • Dr. Lambert T. Appiah
    Dr. Lambert T. Appiah
    General Secretary, Ghanaian Society of Cardiology | Consultant Cardiologist, Ghana

Global Advisory Board

Amyloidosis Africa is guided by an international advisory network of leading cardiologists and researchers committed to improving awareness, diagnosis, and research collaboration across Africa.

  • Martha Grogan, M.D.
    Martha Grogan, M.D.
    Founder & Director, Cardiac Amyloid Clinic | Mayo Clinic, USA
  • A/Prof. Sonia Shah
    A/Prof. Sonia Shah
    Global Advisor – Genetics & Precision Medicine
  • Prof. Thibaud DAMY, MD
    Prof. Thibaud DAMY, MD
    Professor of Cardiology | Head of the National Referral Center for Cardiac Amyloidosis, AP-HP Henri Mondor Hospital, France

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.

  • Dr. Bonkano Ousseina
    Dr. Bonkano Ousseina
    Interventional Cardiologist | President, Association of Young Cardiologists of Africa (AJCA) | Country Lead (Niger)
  • Prof. Bourema Dembele
    Prof. Bourema Dembele
    Professor of Cardiology | University of Bamako | Consultant Cardiologist | Country Lead (Mali)
  • Dr.Kefelegn Dejene
    Dr.Kefelegn Dejene
    Asst. Prof. of Medicine & Interventional Cardiologist | Former President, Ethiopian Society of Cardiac Professionals | Country Lead (Ethiopia)
  • Prof. Sylvie Ndongo Amougou
    Prof. Sylvie Ndongo Amougou
    Professor of Cardiology | Vice Dean of The Faculty of Medecine and Biomédical Sciences | University of Yaoundé I | Country Lead (Cameroon)
  • Dr. Mauer Gonçalves, MD, MBA, PhD
    Dr. Mauer Gonçalves, MD, MBA, PhD
    Cardiologist | Professor of Medicine | Clinical Research Scientist | Country Lead (Angola)
  • Dr. Sameh Geress
    Dr. Sameh Geress
    M.D | Cardiologist | Country Lead (Zimbabwe)
  • Dr. Abigail Gomes
    Dr. Abigail Gomes
    Medical Doctor | Country Coordinator (Angola)
  • Dr. Ismaël Oumarou
    Dr. Ismaël Oumarou
    Cardiologist | Country Coordinator (Niger)
  • Dr. Joe Amara Koroma
    Dr. Joe Amara Koroma
    M.D | Cardiologist | Country Lead – Sierra Leone

Scientific & Research Team

The Scientific & Research Team supports the development and implementation of research initiatives within Amyloidosis Africa. The team contributes expertise in biostatistics, clinical data management, research coordination, and medical education to strengthen scientific collaboration, support registry development, and advance evidence generation on cardiac amyloidosis across Africa.

  • George Otieno, MD, MSc
    George Otieno, MD, MSc
    Director of Clinical Education & Training
  • Kennedy Odhiambo, MPH, MA (PPM), PhD
    Kennedy Odhiambo, MPH, MA (PPM), PhD
    Clinical Trials & Research Operations Lead
  • Lilian Njagi, MBChB, MSc, DTM&H, Epi Fellow, PhD
    Lilian Njagi, MBChB, MSc, DTM&H, Epi Fellow, PhD
    Senior Advisor – Amyloidosis Research & Epidemiology (Africa)
  • Nouran Hamza, BPharm, MSc, PhD
    Nouran Hamza, BPharm, MSc, PhD
    Biostatistics & Real-World Evidence Lead
  • Yubrine Moraa Gachemba, MSc, MMed
    Yubrine Moraa Gachemba, MSc, MMed
    Consultant Cardiologist | Continental Lead – Cardiac Imaging & Diagnostics (Africa), Amyloidosis Africa
  • Godfrey Nyakaya, MSc (Clinical Trials)
    Godfrey Nyakaya, MSc (Clinical Trials)
    Director – Clinical Research Quality, Compliance & Systems Improvement
  • Hamed Sami, BPharm, MSc
    Hamed Sami, BPharm, MSc
    Clinical Data & Registry Management Specialist
  • Aspanas Omukanya, BSc, MSc
    Aspanas Omukanya, BSc, MSc
    Clinical Research & Data Operations Lead (Africa)
  • Karen Kiranka, BPharm, MSc
    Karen Kiranka, BPharm, MSc
    Operations & Research Programs Lead
  • Lewis Wanyonyi
    Lewis Wanyonyi
    Medical Research & Scientific Communications Officer

Operations & Program Team

The Operations & Program Team supports the day-to-day implementation of Amyloidosis Africa activities across the continent. The team works across partnerships, communications, regulatory strategy, finance, and community engagement to facilitate education programs, research coordination, and collaborative initiatives aimed at improving awareness and diagnosis of cardiac amyloidosis in Africa.

  • Lydia Mikhael
    Lydia Mikhael
    Regulatory Affairs & Strategic Planning Specialist
  • Njeri Munyiri
    Njeri Munyiri
    Strategic Partnerships & Health Systems Advisor
  • Noella Obetto
    Noella Obetto
    Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) Officer
  • Carson Anekeya
    Carson Anekeya
    Communications & Digital Media Coordinator
  • Pamella Mutai
    Pamella Mutai
    Finance & Administration Coordinator
  • Gladys Kiranka
    Gladys Kiranka
    Community Engagement Support
John H. Dawod
Founder & Coordinator-Amyloidosis Africa | Founder & Chairman-CRK Clinical Research Key NGO

John Heshmat is a public health specialist and clinical research leader working at the intersection of cardiovascular health, rare diseases, and health equity in Africa. He is the Founder and Coordinator of Amyloidosis Africa, a continental initiative dedicated to improving awareness, early diagnosis, and collaborative research on cardiac amyloidosis across African countries.

His work focuses on addressing the persistent gap in the recognition and diagnosis of rare and inherited cardiovascular diseases, particularly transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis (ATTR-CM), in African healthcare systems where awareness, diagnostic pathways, and research representation remain limited. Through Amyloidosis Africa, he is working to build a network of clinicians, researchers, and institutions to strengthen education, improve diagnostic readiness, and expand collaborative research across the continent.

John combines a background in pharmacy, clinical research, and public health with extensive field experience working in hospitals and underserved communities across Africa. His work emphasizes strengthening healthcare workforce capacity, supporting clinician education, and promoting research initiatives that better reflect African populations and healthcare systems.

He is also the Co-Founder and Chairman of CRK Clinical Research Key (CRK-NGO), a Kenyan organization dedicated to advancing clinical and public health research in underserved communities. Through this work, he leads investigator-driven research and educational initiatives focused on neglected and rare diseases and collaborates with international partners and research groups to expand opportunities for research and training in Africa.

In addition, John serves as the Country Coordinator in Kenya for Mécénat Chirurgie Cardiaque, an international humanitarian organization that facilitates life-saving heart surgery for children from countries where such procedures are not accessible. He is also an Ambassador of the Formation 5/5 Pediatric Cardiology Education Program, a global mobile learning initiative designed to train physicians in the early recognition and management of congenital heart disease in underserved settings.

John has also led national educational initiatives on transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis, including the development of a CPD-accredited training program for healthcare professionals in Kenya aimed at improving awareness and early recognition of the disease among cardiologists, physicians, pharmacists, and other healthcare providers.

In addition to his research and educational work, John has extensive experience in public health program implementation and community health initiatives. He has contributed to large-scale health programs addressing HIV, tuberculosis, cervical cancer, and gender-based violence, and has coordinated medical outreach initiatives in underserved communities, including urban informal settlements and remote regions.

John holds a Master’s degree in Public Health from Liverpool John Moores University (United Kingdom) and a Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy. He also holds a Diploma in Project Management in Practice and a Diploma in Public Relations, reflecting his multidisciplinary approach to health leadership, research coordination, and strategic communication. He is an ACLS (Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support) provider and a member of the International Society of Amyloidosis (ISA).

Through his work, John is committed to building Africa-led initiatives that strengthen clinical knowledge, expand research collaboration, and improve early recognition of cardiovascular diseases, particularly rare and underdiagnosed conditions, across the continent.

Dr. Anders Barasa
Clinical Lead & Advisory Board Director | Cardiologist & Heart Failure Specialist

A Kenyan Consultant Physician Cardiologist | MD PhD | Heart Failure Specialist | FRCP (Edin), FESC, PCHF Zurich International cardiovascular leader bridging Nordic and East African healthcare. 13 years driving clinical excellence, service innovation, and academic medicine. Specializing in heart failure, cardiac imaging including MRI, and research translation. Seeking partnerships in clinical delivery, capacity development, and cardiovascular research.

EXPERIENCE

2019 – 2025 | Heart Failure Lead, Southern Copenhagen (Amager-Hvidovre Hospital), Denmark

2024 – 2025 | Chair, Heart Failure Working Group, Danish Society of Cardiology

2023 – 2024 | Clinical Associate Professor, University of Copenhagen

2019 – 2022 | PACES Examiner, MRCP (UK/Edinburgh)

2018 – 2019 | Postgraduate Certificate in Heart Failure (PCHF), HFA/ESC, University of Zürich

2014 – 2019 | Consultant Cardiologist, Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya

2007 – 2014 | Resident internal medicine and cardiology fellowship & PhD, Sahlgrenska Academy & University of  Gothenburg, Sweden

Dr. Christine Mwachari
Research & Development (R&D) Lead | Principal Research Scientist, KEMRI

Dr. Christina Mwachari, MD, MSc, PhD is a physician-scientist and public health researcher with more than 25 years of experience in infectious disease research, epidemiology, and health systems strengthening in Africa. She currently serves as a Principal Research Scientist at the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) and as Director of Research and Development (R&D) at CRK Clinical Research Organization, where she leads initiatives focused on advancing clinical research, innovation, and workforce development.

She holds an MBChB from the University of Nairobi, an MSc in Medical Microbiology from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, a Master of Public Health in Epidemiology from the University of Washington, and a PhD in Public Health / Epidemiology from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT).

Dr. Mwachari’s research career began within Kenya’s Ministry of Health before transitioning into senior research and leadership roles at KEMRI and the University of Maryland Programs in Kenya, where she contributed to large-scale public health, laboratory systems strengthening, and implementation programs. Her work has focused on HIV prevention and care, tuberculosis and respiratory diseases, reproductive health, and community-based health interventions.

Throughout her career, she has led and contributed to numerous clinical studies and public health programs supported by organizations including WHO, NIH, PEPFAR, and the Rockefeller Foundation, and she has presented her work at major international scientific meetings such as CROI, the International AIDS Conference, and the IUATLD World Conference on Lung Health.

She has also played an important role in strengthening laboratory systems in Kenya, mentoring more than twenty laboratories toward ISO 15189 accreditation and supervising postgraduate researchers in epidemiology and public health.

Within Amyloidosis Africa, Dr. Mwachari contributes research leadership and scientific guidance, supporting efforts to strengthen evidence generation, research collaboration, and capacity building across African countries.

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.

Dr. Okechukwu Ogah
President, Nigerian Cardiac Society | Chair, 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. Constantin Nyamuzangura
President, Burundian Society of Cardiology | Head, National Council of the Medical Association 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. 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.

Prof. Félicité Kamdem
Professor of Cardiology | President, Société Camerounaise de Cardiologie

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. Dr. Zainab Raissuni
Chair, Department of Cardiology | University Hospital of Tangier, 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.

Yubrine Moraa 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.

Prof. Yasser Hosny
Professor of Cardiology, Egypt

Experienced Professor of cardiology with a demonstrated history of working in the medical practice industry. Strong education professional skilled in Medicine, Public Speaking, Research, in Invasive Cardiology, Leading Expert in Sports Cardiology in Africa, CAF medical Instructor, member of the Egyptian supreme council of sports Medicine, member of the Egyptian Olympic Committee, head of the Egyptian Triathlon medical Committee Member of the world Triathlon Medical and antidoping committee

Dr. Mazou NGOU TEMGOUA
Cardiologist & Clinical Epidemiologist | University of Yaoundé I, Cameroon | Regional Lead, Francophone Africa

Dr. Mazou Ngou Temgoua is a Cameroonian cardiologist and clinical epidemiologist recognized for his significant contributions to cardiovascular research, medical education, and public health in Sub-Saharan Africa. He is affiliated with the University of Yaoundé I, where he contributes to clinical practice, research, and the training of future healthcare professionals. He also collaborates academically with international institutions, including Université Toulouse III – Paul Sabatier in France.

Dr. Temgoua’s clinical expertise includes cardiac electrophysiology, cardiac pacing, cardiovascular imaging, and intensive cardiac care. His work bridges clinical cardiology and population health, with a strong focus on understanding the burden of cardiovascular diseases in African populations.

He has authored or co-authored more than 110 scientific publications, addressing key topics such as hypertension, chronic heart failure, cardiovascular disease epidemiology, and the relationship between social determinants of health and cardiovascular outcomes in Africa. His research has also explored the impact of COVID-19 on cardiovascular care and thromboembolic complications.

In addition to his academic work, Dr. Temgoua plays an important leadership role in medical education as the General Coordinator of Succes Pro Academy, a training center dedicated to supporting medical specialization and professional development in Cameroon.

He holds a Doctor of Medicine (MD) and a Master of Public Health (MPH) and is a Fellow of the European Society of Cardiology (FESC). Through his research, education, and leadership activities, he continues to contribute to strengthening cardiovascular science, training, and healthcare systems across Africa.

Dr. Lambert T. Appiah
General Secretary, 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.

Martha Grogan, M.D.
Founder & Director, Cardiac Amyloid Clinic | Mayo Clinic, USA

Dr. Martha Grogan is an internationally recognized cardiologist and internist at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, with extensive expertise in cardiac amyloidosis, cardiomyopathy, heart failure, and cardiovascular imaging, particularly echocardiography. She is widely respected for her contributions to the clinical understanding and management of amyloid heart disease.

Dr. Grogan is the Founder and Director of the Cardiac Amyloid Clinic at Mayo Clinic, established in 2012, which has become a leading center dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment, and research of cardiac amyloidosis. Her clinical and research interests include amyloid heart disease, echocardiography, reversible cardiomyopathies, and cardiovascular health education for the general public.

She joined the Mayo Clinic staff in 1995 after completing her cardiology training at the Mayo Clinic College of Medicine. Prior to joining Mayo Clinic, she practiced at Kaiser Permanente Sunnyside Medical Center in Portland, Oregon. Earlier in her career, while fulfilling a commitment with the National Health Service Corps, she served as Chief of Internal Medicine, Medical Director, and Assistant Warden at the Federal Medical Center, where she played a leadership role in clinical care and healthcare administration.

In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Grogan has made significant contributions to medical education and public health communication. She served for nearly a decade as the cardiovascular medical editor of the award-winning MayoClinic.com website, helping develop widely used educational resources aimed at improving public understanding of cardiovascular disease.

Dr. Grogan conducts clinical research focused on cardiac amyloidosis and transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy (ATTR-CM) and has authored or co-authored numerous scientific publications in leading journals such as The New England Journal of Medicine, Circulation, European Heart Journal, and the Journal of the American College of Cardiology. She has contributed to several landmark clinical trials evaluating emerging therapies for transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy and continues to lecture internationally on advances in the diagnosis and treatment of amyloid heart disease.

Her professional leadership extends across several major international cardiovascular and amyloidosis initiatives. She currently serves as Chair of the Cardiac Amyloidosis Task Force of the American Society of Echocardiography and is a Scientific Advisory Board member of the Transthyretin Amyloidosis Outcomes Survey (THAOS). She is also a member of the Advisory Committee of the Canadian Registry for Amyloidosis Research (CRAR) and a member of the International Society of Amyloidosis. In addition, she participates in professional activities with organizations such as the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology, where she contributes to peer review and program planning.

Dr. Grogan is board certified in Internal Medicine and Cardiovascular Diseases by the American Board of Internal Medicine and is a Fellow of the American College of Cardiology (FACC) and the American College of Physicians (FACP).

Throughout her career, Dr. Grogan has received numerous honors recognizing her contributions to clinical care, education, and research. These include the Mayo Clinic Team Science Award, multiple Department of Internal Medicine Career Development Awards, the Excellence in Teaching Recognition from Mayo Medical School, the Outstanding Teacher in Physical Diagnosis Award, and the Clinical Excellence Award in Cardiovascular Diseases.

Dr. Grogan received her Doctor of Medicine (MD) from Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and completed her residency in Internal Medicine as well as fellowships in Cardiovascular Diseases and Adult Congenital Heart Disease at the Mayo Clinic College of Medicine. She also holds a Bachelor of Science with Distinction in Biology from the University of Cincinnati, where she graduated cum laude and participated in the McMicken Honors Program and Cincinnatus Society.

Through her role as a Global Advisory Board Member of the Amyloidosis Africa Initiative, Dr. Grogan contributes her expertise to support efforts aimed at improving awareness, early diagnosis, education, and research collaboration on cardiac amyloidosis across Africa.

A/Prof. Sonia Shah
Global Advisor – Genetics & Precision Medicine

Associate Professor Sonia Shah is a genomics scientist and cardiovascular researcher who contributes to Amyloidosis Africa as Global Scientific Advisor for Genomics and Precision Medicine, supporting research initiatives that integrate genomics, data science, and population health to advance the understanding of cardiovascular diseases.

She leads the Genomics in Health research group at the Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, where her work focuses on using large-scale genomic data to address key knowledge gaps in cardiovascular disease and improve prevention and treatment strategies. Her research particularly emphasizes increasing representation of underrepresented populations in genomic research to address disparities in cardiovascular outcomes.

Professor Shah is also the lead investigator of the South Asian Genes and Health in Australia (SAGHA) study, a major initiative aimed at improving representation of South Asian populations in cardiovascular and genomics research. Her work explores the genetic architecture of cardiovascular disease and investigates how genomic data can inform disease risk prediction, drug response, and therapeutic discovery.

Earlier in her career, she served as lead analyst for the International Heart Failure Genetics Consortium (HERMES) and has held research positions at leading institutions including University College London and the Queensland Brain Institute. Her research integrates genomics, bioinformatics, and statistical genetics to better understand complex diseases.

She holds a PhD in Cardiovascular Genetics from University College London, an MSc in Bioinformatics, and a BSc in Biochemistry with Biotechnology from The University of Manchester. Her contributions to cardiovascular genomics and data-driven research have earned multiple recognitions, including the National Heart Foundation Future Leader Fellowship and the Queensland Young Tall Poppy Award.

Through her role with Amyloidosis Africa, Professor Shah supports scientific collaboration and provides expertise on genomics, precision medicine, and population-based research approaches that can help advance the understanding of cardiovascular diseases, including rare and underdiagnosed conditions, in diverse populations.

Prof. Thibaud DAMY, MD
Professor of Cardiology | Head of the National Referral Center for Cardiac Amyloidosis, AP-HP Henri Mondor Hospital, France

Professor Thibaud Damy, MD, PhD is a leading cardiologist and internationally recognized expert in cardiac amyloidosis, currently serving as Head of the National Referral Center for Cardiac Amyloidosis at AP-HP Henri Mondor Hospital. He is also Professor of Cardiology at University Paris-Est Créteil and Head of the Heart Failure and Amyloidosis Unit.

With over two decades of clinical and academic experience, Professor Damy has played a central role in advancing the understanding, diagnosis, and management of cardiac amyloidosis. In 2009, he co-founded the Mondor Amyloidosis Network, a multidisciplinary platform integrating clinical care and research to improve patient outcomes. His center has managed more than 1,000 patients referred for suspected or confirmed cardiac amyloidosis, establishing it as a major European referral hub.

His research spans epidemiology, pathophysiology, early diagnosis, and treatment of amyloidosis, with particular contributions to diagnostic approaches using biomarkers, echocardiography, and scintigraphy. In parallel, his work in heart failure research includes right ventricular function, pulmonary pressures, and early detection of cardiac dysfunction.

Professor Damy is actively involved in multiple national and international collaborations, including European amyloidosis registries and research networks, contributing to global efforts to improve recognition and management of this underdiagnosed disease.

As a Global Advisory Board Member of Amyloidosis Africa, he brings world-class expertise and strategic leadership, supporting efforts to strengthen early diagnosis, expand research capacity, and align African initiatives with international standards.

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.

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.Kefelegn Dejene
Asst. Prof. 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.

Prof. Sylvie Ndongo Amougou
Professor of Cardiology | Vice Dean of The Faculty of Medecine and Biomédical 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.

Dr. Mauer Gonçalves, MD, MBA, PhD
Cardiologist | Professor of Medicine | Clinical Research Scientist | 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. Sameh Geress
M.D | 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. 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 Lead 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.

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.

Dr. Joe Amara Koroma
M.D | 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.

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

Kennedy Odhiambo, MPH, MA (PPM), PhD
Clinical Trials & Research Operations Lead

Kennedy Ojwang Odhiambo is a seasoned clinical research professional with over 14 years of experience delivering complex, multi-centre clinical trials across Africa. His work spans infectious diseases, nutrition, reproductive health, and diagnostics, with a strong focus on translating research protocols into high-quality, compliant, and impactful outcomes.

He has led the full lifecycle of clinical trials, from protocol development and regulatory approvals to site activation, monitoring, and close-out, across multiple countries including Kenya, Uganda, Zimbabwe, South Africa, and Madagascar. Kennedy has extensive experience working with global research institutions and funders, including the World Health Organization (WHO), National Institutes of Health (NIH), USAID, CDC, KEMRI-Wellcome Trust, and the University of Oxford .

Currently serving as a Clinical Research Manager, he oversees multi-site trials and cross-functional teams, ensuring adherence to ICH-GCP, FDA, EMA, and local regulatory standards. His expertise includes protocol development, Trial Master File (TMF) management, investigator training, data integrity oversight, and regulatory submissions across diverse ethical and governance frameworks.

Kennedy is also experienced in strengthening research infrastructure and translating research findings into policy and practice, contributing to national health strategies and capacity-building initiatives. He holds a Master of Public Health in Epidemiology, a Master’s degree in Project Planning and Management, and is currently pursuing a PhD in Public Health.

His work is driven by a commitment to participant safety, data integrity, and advancing high-quality clinical research across diverse and resource-constrained settings.

Lilian Njagi, MBChB, MSc, DTM&H, Epi Fellow, PhD
Senior Advisor – Amyloidosis Research & Epidemiology (Africa)

Dr. Lillian Njagi is a physician-scientist and epidemiologist with extensive experience in clinical research, population health, and implementation science across sub-Saharan Africa. She holds a PhD in Epidemiology and has served as a Clinical Research Scientist at the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), with additional postdoctoral training in infectious diseases and global health.

Her work spans large-scale research programs in tuberculosis, HIV, and other public health priorities, with a strong focus on study design, real-world evidence generation, and translating research into practice within resource-limited settings. She brings deep expertise in epidemiological methods, multi-country research coordination, and health systems analysis.

Within Amyloidosis Africa, Dr. Njagi provides strategic and scientific input on research and evidence generation, with a particular focus on epidemiology, registry development, and implementation science. Her contributions support the design of multi-country studies, strengthen data-driven approaches to understanding amyloidosis in African populations, and help bridge the gap between clinical awareness and real-world diagnosis and care pathways.

Her work plays a critical role in advancing a more comprehensive, systems-informed approach to improving the recognition and management of cardiac amyloidosis across Africa.

Nouran Hamza, BPharm, MSc, PhD
Biostatistics & Real-World Evidence Lead

Dr. Nouran Hamza, BPharm, MSc, PhD is a biostatistician, epidemiologist, and clinical research methodologist with extensive experience in real-world evidence (RWE), epidemiological research, and statistical methodology for clinical studies. She contributes to the Amyloidosis Africa initiative by supporting research methodology, data analysis strategies, and evidence generation efforts aimed at improving the recognition and understanding of cardiac amyloidosis across Africa.

Dr. Hamza has worked on research and capacity-building initiatives across more than 20 countries, focusing on strengthening the methodological rigor of epidemiological studies, clinical trials, and health systems research. She specializes in biostatistics, real-world evidence generation, study design, and strategic analysis for healthcare research and public health initiatives.

She is the Founder and Managing Director of MARS-Global, a clinical research consultancy focused on rare disease research, real-world evidence generation, and scientific publications. She also serves as CEO and Co-Founder of CRK Clinical Research Organization, an NGO-based clinical research organization working to improve access to high-quality healthcare research for underserved communities.

Dr. Hamza holds a PhD in Biostatistics from the University of Cambridge, a Master’s degree in Public Health from Alexandria University, and a Bachelor of Pharmacy from October 6 University. Her academic and professional work focuses on translating complex data into decision-grade evidence that informs clinical research, healthcare policy, and patient care strategies.

Through her work with Amyloidosis Africa, Dr. Hamza contributes to strengthening research design, data governance, and evidence generation to support collaborative studies and improve awareness and early diagnosis of cardiac amyloidosis across the African continent.

Yubrine Moraa 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.

Godfrey Nyakaya, MSc (Clinical Trials)
Director – Clinical Research Quality, Compliance & Systems Improvement

Godfrey Nyakaya is a senior clinical research professional with over 16 years of experience in clinical trials across Africa, with specialized expertise in quality assurance, site monitoring, and regulatory compliance. He holds a Master of Science in Clinical Trials from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine and has built a strong track record in delivering GCP-compliant, audit-ready research across multi-country studies.

He has held key roles with leading global research organizations, including Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative, GlaxoSmithKline, and the KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme. Across these roles, he has led clinical trial monitoring, quality system development, regulatory inspection readiness, and risk-based quality management, supporting studies from initiation through close-out.

Godfrey brings deep technical expertise in ICH-GCP, GCLP, and ISO-aligned quality systems, with hands-on experience in audit planning, CAPA implementation, deviation management, and trial master file (TMF) oversight using platforms such as Veeva eTMF. He has also played a critical role in strengthening laboratory and clinical trial quality systems, contributing to GCLP accreditation and ISO 9001-certified processes.

In addition to his operational expertise, he is actively engaged in advancing global quality standards as a Group Leader for GCLP review with the Oxford Global Health Network, contributing to the development of risk-based quality management frameworks and training materials aligned with evolving regulatory expectations.

Within Amyloidosis Africa, Godfrey leads the development of clinical research quality and compliance frameworks, ensuring that all research activities meet international standards and are aligned with trial readiness requirements. His role is central to bridging the gap between awareness initiatives and high-quality, multi-country clinical research, positioning the network for credible collaboration with global partners and sponsors.

Hamed Sami, BPharm, MSc
Clinical Data & Registry Management Specialist

Hamed Sami, BPharm, MSc is a clinical data management specialist and pharmacist who contributes to the Amyloidosis Africa initiative as part of the Scientific and Research Team, supporting data management and research infrastructure for collaborative studies and registries.

He has experience in clinical trial data management, electronic data capture (EDC) systems, and clinical database design, with expertise in platforms such as Medidata Rave, Oracle Clinical, and IBM Clinical Development. His work focuses on ensuring data quality, validation processes, and compliance with international research standards including ICH-GCP and CDISC data standards.

Hamed holds a Master’s degree in Biobanking from Alexandria University, where he developed expertise in biospecimen management, laboratory information management systems, and the role of biobanking in advancing medical research. He also holds a Bachelor of Pharmacy, providing a strong foundation in clinical and pharmaceutical sciences.

Within Amyloidosis Africa, Hamed supports efforts to strengthen clinical data management, registry development, and research data governance, helping ensure that studies and collaborative projects generate high-quality evidence to advance the understanding and early recognition of cardiac amyloidosis across Africa.

Aspanas Omukanya, BSc, MSc
Clinical Research & Data Operations Lead (Africa)

Aspanas Keya Omukanya, BSc (Medical Laboratory Science), MSc (Epidemiology and Biostatistics – Ongoing)

Aspanas Keya Omukanya is a clinical research professional with experience in clinical trial operations, laboratory sciences, and quality assurance within research settings. He is currently serving as an Associate Clinical Research Associate at IQVIA in Nairobi, where he supports site monitoring activities, clinical documentation management, data flow tracking, and coordination of trial-related processes in compliance with study protocols and standard operating procedures.

Prior to this role, he worked as a Laboratory Technologist and Study Quality Assurance Officer at IMPACT Research and Development Organization in Kisumu. In this capacity, he was involved in laboratory diagnostics, study sample management, REDCap data entry, and quality assurance processes, including review of source documents and adherence to ISO 15189 standards. His experience also includes supporting clinical and laboratory procedures at Strathmore University-CREATES and KEMRI, where he contributed to sample analysis, molecular testing, and laboratory system operations.

His technical expertise spans clinical laboratory testing (hematology, microbiology, molecular diagnostics), clinical trial documentation, data management systems, and research compliance frameworks. He has practical experience working with electronic data capture systems such as REDCap and supporting the lifecycle of clinical trials, including sample handling, shipment coordination, and regulatory documentation.

Aspanas is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Epidemiology and Biostatistics, further strengthening his foundation in research methodology, data analysis, and evidence-based practice. His professional development includes training in Good Clinical Laboratory Practice (GCLP), Human Subject Protection (CITI Program), and Principles and Practice of Clinical Research (NIH).

He is a registered member of the Kenya Medical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians Board (KMLTTB) and a member of the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP).

Within research environments, his work has focused on supporting data integrity, quality assurance, and operational coordination across clinical studies, contributing to the effective implementation of research protocols in both laboratory and field settings.

Karen Kiranka, BPharm, MSc
Operations & Research Programs Lead

Karen Kiranka, BPharm, MSc is a public health professional and healthcare management specialist who serves as a member of the Amyloidosis Africa Operational Team, supporting the coordination of research and program activities across the initiative. In this role, she contributes to the implementation of awareness, research, and collaboration efforts aimed at improving the recognition and diagnosis of cardiac amyloidosis across Africa.

Karen brings strong experience in clinical research coordination, health systems strengthening, and healthcare program management. She holds a Master’s degree in Public Health from Queen’s University and an MBA in Healthcare Management from Strathmore University, combining expertise in public health strategy, healthcare operations, and program implementation.

She currently serves as Chief Operations Officer and Research Lead at CRK Clinical Research Organization, where she supports clinical research initiatives and public health projects in Kenya. Her previous experience also includes working as a pharmacist at The Nairobi Hospital, contributing to patient care and pharmaceutical services.

Through her work with Amyloidosis Africa, Karen contributes to strengthening operational coordination, research collaboration, and health system engagement to advance awareness and early recognition of cardiac amyloidosis across the continent.

Lewis Wanyonyi
Medical Research & Scientific Communications Officer

Lewis Wanyonyi is a medical student at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) with a strong interdisciplinary background in clinical research, medical writing, and healthcare communication. He combines formal medical training with over six years of experience in scientific content development, positioning him at the intersection of clinical medicine, research, and knowledge translation.

He has gained hands-on clinical experience through rotations in internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, and obstetrics and gynecology across major healthcare institutions in Kenya. Alongside his clinical training, Lewis has actively engaged in research, serving as a Principal Investigator on a study exploring the impact of digital health literacy on treatment adherence. His work involved data collection using REDCap and statistical analysis with SPSS, with findings presented at a medical research symposium and a manuscript currently under review .

In parallel, Lewis has built extensive experience in medical and scientific communication, working as a medical content writer and senior editor for international platforms. He specializes in translating complex medical and research concepts into clear, evidence-based content tailored for both healthcare professionals and broader audiences, ensuring accuracy and alignment with global healthcare standards.

His skill set includes clinical research methodology, literature review, evidence synthesis, and healthcare content strategy, supported by proficiency in tools such as SPSS, R, and major medical databases including PubMed and Cochrane.

Lewis is particularly interested in advancing research, education, and awareness in underserved settings, with a focus on improving access to accurate medical information and supporting data-driven healthcare initiatives.

Lydia Mikhael
Regulatory Affairs & Strategic Planning Specialist

Dr. Lydia Eshak Mikhael, BPharm, MSc  is a pharmaceutical professional with more than a decade of experience in clinical pharmacy, regulatory affairs, and clinical research management. She currently serves as Director of Regulatory Affairs and Clinical Trials Management at CRK Clinical Research Key (CRO) in Kenya, where she oversees regulatory strategy, clinical trial coordination, and compliance with international research standards including ICH-GCP.

She previously worked with the Egyptian Drug Authority, where she contributed to the evaluation and registration of pharmaceutical products and supported clinical pharmacy programs implemented across multiple hospitals in Egypt.

Dr. Mikhael holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Strategic Management from the Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport and a Bachelor of Pharmacy from Ahram Canadian University.

Her experience spans regulatory science, drug information, clinical pharmacy services, and healthcare procurement, giving her a multidisciplinary perspective on healthcare systems, research implementation, and regulatory compliance.

Through her work with Amyloidosis Africa, she supports the development of ethically conducted research collaborations and initiatives aimed at improving awareness and diagnosis of cardiac amyloidosis in African healthcare settings.

Njeri Munyiri
Strategic Partnerships & Health Systems Advisor

Njeri Munyiri is a healthcare manager and critical care nursing professional who serves as Strategic Partnerships & Health Systems Advisor at Amyloidosis Africa, supporting the development of institutional collaborations, health systems engagement, and partnership initiatives that advance the mission of improving awareness and early recognition of cardiac amyloidosis across Africa.

Within Amyloidosis Africa, she contributes to strengthening partnerships with healthcare institutions, professional societies, and global health organizations, helping expand collaborative initiatives that promote cardiovascular awareness, healthcare capacity building, and improved access to specialized care across the continent.

Njeri brings extensive experience in healthcare program management, strategic partnerships, and health systems strengthening. Her professional background includes roles with organizations such as Amref Health Africa, Jhpiego, and the United Nations Office at Nairobi, where she supported healthcare initiatives focused on clinical capacity building, emergency care, training programs, and health system development.

She also works as Medical Tourism & International Patient Services Officer at The Nairobi Hospital, where she supports coordination of international patient services and institutional partnerships in specialized healthcare delivery.

Her clinical background includes several years of experience in critical care and emergency nursing, including service in intensive care settings and participation in emergency response and healthcare training initiatives aimed at strengthening healthcare delivery systems.

Njeri holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Healthcare Management from Strathmore University, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Nairobi, and a Higher Diploma in Critical Care Nursing from The Nairobi Hospital School of Nursing.

Noella Obetto
Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) Officer

Noella Obetto is a clinical data professional with over four years of experience supporting clinical trials and public health programs across Kenya. Her work focuses on clinical data management, data coordination, and the transformation of health data into actionable insights that inform decision-making in both research and healthcare delivery.

She currently serves as a Clinical Data Specialist at IQVIA, where she contributes to the management and oversight of clinical trial data. Prior to this, she worked as a Clinical Data Coordinator at Aga Khan University Hospital, East Africa, where she supported the collection, validation, and management of clinical and research data across multiple programs. She also brings experience from USAID-supported projects as a Health Data Officer, where she was involved in health information systems, program data tracking, and reporting, as well as earlier field-level experience with Jhpiego in data collection and program implementation.

Noella has developed strong technical capabilities in data tools including Excel, SQL, Python, and Power BI, enabling her to support structured data workflows, reporting processes, and data visualization. Her work is grounded in ensuring data quality, consistency, and usability across clinical and public health contexts.

Within Amyloidosis Africa, Noella supports data coordination and monitoring activities, contributing to the structuring and tracking of program data across education initiatives, surveys, and emerging research and registry efforts. Her role supports the development of reliable data systems that underpin evidence generation and program evaluation.

She holds a background in Health Information Management and has further training in data science and clinical research, reflecting her commitment to continuous learning and the application of data-driven approaches in healthcare.

Carson Anekeya
Communications & Digital Media Coordinator

Carson Anekeya is a digital journalist and communications professional who contributes to Amyloidosis Africa as Communications & Digital Media Coordinator, supporting awareness campaigns, digital storytelling, and public engagement initiatives aimed at improving recognition of rare cardiovascular diseases across Africa.

He brings experience in health journalism, strategic communications, and advocacy, with a strong focus on using digital media to raise awareness about important social and health issues. Carson has written feature articles covering topics such as health, digital health, mental health, technology, and human-interest stories, helping amplify underrepresented voices and bring attention to issues affecting communities across Africa.

Carson currently serves as Project Coordinator at Unda Youth Network, where he leads communication strategies, develops digital storytelling initiatives, and coordinates stakeholder engagement to strengthen program visibility and impact. He is also a Contributing Writer at EpicPulse Magazine, where he researches and publishes feature articles on health, lifestyle, and technology-related topics.

In addition, he works as Advocacy and Communication Manager at Stand Out 4 Mental Health, where he leads awareness campaigns, manages digital content, and coordinates communication strategies aimed at reducing stigma and promoting mental health awareness in communities. His work includes developing content for digital platforms, managing advocacy campaigns, and building partnerships with organizations and stakeholders.

Carson holds a Bachelor’s degree in Media and Digital Communication from Zetech University and has received additional training in digital marketing, media relations, digital ethics, and freedom of expression.

Through his role with Amyloidosis Africa, Carson supports the development of communication strategies that help translate complex medical information into accessible and engaging content, expanding awareness of cardiac amyloidosis and strengthening public engagement with cardiovascular health initiatives across the continent.

Pamella Mutai
Finance & Administration Coordinator

Pamella Mutai is a finance and accounting professional who contributes to Amyloidosis Africa as Finance & Administration Coordinator, supporting financial oversight, administrative coordination, and operational efficiency for the initiative’s programs and partnerships.

She brings more than eight years of experience in financial management, accounting, tax compliance, and financial reporting across financial services and professional services environments. Her expertise includes accounts payable and receivable management, payroll administration, audit coordination, financial systems management, and regulatory compliance.

As part of her professional experience, Pamella has worked as an Assistant Finance Manager, overseeing key financial operations including budgeting, financial reporting, payroll processing, statutory compliance, and internal financial controls. Her responsibilities have also included preparing financial statements, coordinating audits, and ensuring adherence to regulatory and tax requirements.

Earlier in her career, she served as an Accounting Advisor at Rödl & Partner Kenya, where she supported a diverse portfolio of clients with end-to-end accounting services, financial reporting, tax compliance, and audit preparation. She has extensive experience working with financial systems such as QuickBooks, Xero, and Microsoft Dynamics 365, helping organizations strengthen financial processes and internal controls.

Pamella holds a Bachelor of Business Management in Finance and Banking and is currently pursuing additional training in Data Analytics to enhance financial insights and support data-driven decision-making.

Through her work with Amyloidosis Africa, Pamella supports financial planning, administrative coordination, and operational processes that help ensure the sustainability, accountability, and effective management of the initiative’s programs and collaborations across Africa.

Gladys Kiranka
Community Engagement Support

Gladys Kiranka is a member of the Amyloidosis Africa Operational Team, where she supports community engagement and outreach activities aimed at improving awareness of cardiovascular diseases and strengthening connections between healthcare initiatives and local communities.

In this role, she contributes to community education, outreach coordination, and patient engagement efforts, helping to promote awareness of cardiac conditions and support initiatives focused on earlier recognition and referral of patients with cardiovascular symptoms.

Gladys is a Community Health Worker at Coptic Hospital in Nairobi and holds a Bachelor of Science in Community Health from Kenya Methodist University. Her background in community health enables her to support public health initiatives that bridge healthcare services and community-level awareness.