Nairobi, Kenya I Thursday 23 June 2022

Two outstanding fellows of the African Academy of Sciences (AAS) Professor Agnès Binagwaho and Professor Catherine Ngila have been awarded the prestigious L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science International Awards. They have been recognized for their scientific achievements and remarkable contributions to advancing research on a global scale.

The Fondation L’Oréal and UNESCO have worked together for more than 20 years to help empower more women scientists to achieve scientific excellence and participate equally in solving the great challenges facing humanity. Each year they honour five brilliant female scientists, promote their work globally and empower them to act as role models for aspiring women scientists and future generations.

To support women-led scientific excellence in addressing societal needs worldwide, one Laureate from each of the five major regions of the world is awarded: Africa and the Arab States, Asia and the Pacific, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean, and North America.

Professor Agnès Binagwaho was selected as the 2022 Laureate for Africa and the Arab States. She was awarded for her central role in expanding access to public healthcare for the most vulnerable communities in Rwanda, Africa and beyond, helping reduce the global burden of disease and improving lives.

Professor Catherine Ngila was selected as the 2021 Laureate for Africa and the Arab States. She was awarded for her ground-breaking contribution to water quality and water resource management in Africa. She has pioneered nanotechnology based analytical methods for monitoring and removing industrial water pollutants, creating a major positive impact by enabling millions of families to benefit from safer drinking water.

The L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science International Awards have championed over 120 exceptional researchers, and 3,800 Young Talents; supporting the world’s most inspiring female leaders in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics who continue to contribute innovative ways of alleviating the challenges faced in various parts of the world.

More information on the awards can be found here in this press book.

NOTES TO EDITOR

The African Academy of Sciences 

he African Academy of Sciences (AAS) is a non-aligned, non-political, not-for-profit pan African organisation whose vision is to see transformed lives on the African continent through science. Our tripartite mandate is recognising excellence, providing advisory and think tank functions, and implementing key STI programmes addressing Africa’s developmental challenges.

Join us on Twitter @AASciences I Facebook AASciences I LinkedIn AASciences Website www.aasciences.africa

About Fondation L’Oréal

The Fondation L’Oréal supports and empowers women to shape their future and make a difference in society, focusing on three major areas: scientific research, inclusive beauty, and climate action. Since 1998, the L’Oréal-UNESCO For Women in Science program has worked to empower more women scientists to overcome barriers to progression and participate in solving challenges in various parts of the world.

Media enquiries 

The African Academy of Sciences, Nairobi, Kenya 

Shylee Mbuchucha or Morris Makabe

communication@aasciences.africa