WILAN, WomenLift Health Launch Leadership Programme to Strengthen West Africa’s Health Systems
By Admin, Lagos
Thirty women leaders from Burkina Faso, Ghana, Nigeria and Senegal have commenced a 12-month leadership programme designed to strengthen health systems and improve maternal and newborn health outcomes across West Africa.
The initiative, known as the 2026 West Africa Midwifery Leadership Journey, is being implemented by WomenLift Health in partnership with WILAN Global.
The programme began with a four-day leadership immersion in Lagos and brings together midwives, clinicians, educators, policymakers, researchers, programme managers and other health-sector professionals.
Organisers said the initiative is aimed at addressing the limited representation of women in leadership and decision-making roles within the health sector, despite the significant contribution of women to maternal and newborn healthcare.
Participants are expected to take part in leadership development sessions, coaching, peer-learning activities and practical exercises aimed at improving their ability to influence policies, institutions and health outcomes.
Founder and Executive Director of WILAN Global, Abosede George-Ogan, said the programme is focused on developing leaders who can create impact beyond their individual organisations.
“Our ambition goes beyond developing individual leaders. We want to support leaders who can influence systems, shape policy, strengthen institutions, and ultimately improve maternal and newborn health outcomes across the region,” George-Ogan said.
She added that the challenges confronting health systems require leaders who can work across professional boundaries, establish strong partnerships and respond effectively to changing circumstances.
East Africa Director at WomenLift Health, Dr Sylvia Vito, also encouraged the participants to use their personal and professional experiences as a foundation for purposeful leadership.
According to Vito, effective leadership requires collaboration and strong networks because lasting transformation depends on people working together.
Following the Lagos immersion, the participants will continue the 12-month programme through individual coaching, mentorship, health leadership projects and collaborative learning.
They will also gain access to a network of women leaders working to promote stronger and more equitable health systems across the region.