Building a sustainable pipeline of African cancer leaders
Goal
AIM
Identify and mentor early-career African researchers, especially women and individuals underrepresented in global oncology, capable of leading interdisciplinary teams to improve cancer prevention, diagnosis, and care in Africa.
IMPACT
- 82 fellows across 24 African countries and 5 from partner institutions in the USA
- 17 fellows (21%) have progressed into AORTIC leadership roles
- 5 cohorts since 2013
- 60+ peer-reviewed publications since ACLI inception
- Grants & awards: multiple national and international recognitions
- Conferences: Active participation in AORTIC, ASCO, ESMO, and others
Fellows across Africa
Explore an interactive map showing all ACLI awardees by cohort year.
Click a country: Filter fellows by country
Click a fellow: Details
A legacy of leadership and mentorship
The African Cancer Leaders’ Initiative (ACLI) was conceived by Professor Serigne M. Gueye and established under the presidency of Professor Isaac Adewole. Since 2013, the initiative has supported five cohorts of fellows who have benefited from mentoring by African and global cancer leaders. The programme continues to expand its influence through alumni who are now shaping national cancer control strategies, leading cancer centres, and contributing to AORTIC’s committees and Executive Council.
With special appreciation to long-standing mentors Professor Serigne Gueye (Senegal), Professor Funmi Olopade (Nigeria/USA), and Professor Timothy Rebbeck (USA), and to the U.S. National Cancer Institute for their sustained support.
Impact at a glance
Since 2013
Interested in becoming an ACLI Fellow?
Each ACLI cohort is selected through a competitive process and receives mentorship, training, and exposure at the AORTIC Conference. Applications open biennially alongside AORTIC’s conference cycle.
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Partners & Mentors
We gratefully acknowledge the U.S. National Cancer Institute (NCI) for sustained support, alongside AORTIC’s global academic partners and mentors who continue to power ACLI’s growth and impact.
