WILAN Launches Leadership Programme to Strengthen West Africa’s Health Sector

Thirty women from Burkina Faso, Ghana, Nigeria and Senegal have commenced a 12-month leadership programme designed to strengthen health systems, influence policy and improve maternal and newborn healthcare outcomes across West Africa.

The initiative, known as the 2026 West Africa Midwifery Leadership Journey, is fully funded by WomenLift Health in partnership with WILAN Global. It began with a four-day leadership immersion in Lagos.

The programme aims to address the limited representation of women in leadership and decision-making roles within the health sector, despite women playing a major role in providing maternal and newborn healthcare across the region.

Participants include midwives, healthcare professionals, educators, policymakers, researchers, programme managers and health systems leaders from the four participating countries.

During the programme, participants will take part in leadership training, coaching, peer-learning sessions and practical exercises aimed at improving their leadership skills, expanding their influence and building stronger professional networks.

WILAN Global Founder and Executive Director, Abosede George-Ogan, said the initiative goes beyond developing individual leaders, stressing the need to equip women to influence institutions, shape policies and strengthen health systems.

She noted that the complexity of current healthcare challenges requires leaders who can collaborate across professional disciplines, establish trusted partnerships and respond effectively to uncertain situations.

WomenLift Health’s East Africa Director, Dr Sylvia Vito, also encouraged participants to use their personal and professional experiences to strengthen their sense of purpose and leadership.

She emphasised the importance of collaboration and strong professional networks in achieving meaningful transformation within health systems.

Following the Lagos leadership immersion, the participants will continue with individual coaching, mentorship, health leadership projects, collaborative learning and access to a network of women leaders working to promote equitable healthcare systems across West Africa.

The organisers hope the programme will contribute to stronger female leadership and better maternal and newborn health outcomes throughout the region.

• Tweet
• Share
• Share
• Share
• Share