A brilliant African doctor named Mumba Chalwe-Kaja earned a bachelors and masters degree in Medicine and also made history as the first frmaile urological Surgeon in her country.
Mumba, a Zamibian obtained a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery at Rayzan Medical University after which she proceeded to the University of Zambia where she earned a Master of Medicine in Urology.
This achievement made her he first female Urological Surgeon in Zambia. A urological surgeon is a medical professional who is a specialist in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions that affect the urinary tract (kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra).
She mentioned that she has always wished to push boundaries and make exceptional achievements. Mamba said she thrived on pushing herself and actively living the dreams she have of changing the world.
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”Medicine was always a childhood dream. Urology on the other hand was a career choice based on many factors. I love challenges and the surgical field offered this. Urology as a specialty is dynamic and the fact that Zambia had no female reps. The desire to defy stereotypes and make a positive impact on people’s lives was a huge motivation,” she said.
She said she has always preferred unconventional paths and choosing urology presented her with a unique challenge which she embraced.
Mumba also added that she desired a career that combines rapid advancements, technology, and innovation, and Urology, in her view, perfectly aligns with these criteria. She said she was motivated to study medicine after she came across a female doctor.
She said she wants her accomplishments to inspire other women and girls, “Like I always say, “iron sharpens iron” if women and girls can see fellow women as achievers outside the domestic sphere they can aim higher,” she said.
Mumba said she faced some challenges working in a male-dominated field, especially with the common stereotype of urologists as older men, unlike her. However since she became an Urologist, more women have joined.
She added that her gender and age have also led to frequent questions about her competence and abilities but she did not let it get to her.
“It’s multifaceted I believe. The surgical field can be demanding. The training for me it’s been a 14-year journey. I also believe more female role models are needed. We need to debunk the “surgery is for men” myth,” Mumba said.
“What might seem like “my” achievement is a testament to “Our” openers to change as a nation. Both Men and women mentored me… The community has accepted me and even encouraged me! that right there is a sign that the tide is ever so slowly changing. I’m not oblivious to the challenges BUT I’m proof that we can overcome anything,” she added.
Advising young African girls, Mumba encourages them to never stop believing, and push harder even when doors close they should find a way out in any way possible
”You are sufficient. You deserve it. Your age and gender should never be a hindrance; they are your biggest asset! Simply put- gather up all the courage you can and just go for it,” she said.
Mumba said her vision for Africa is mainly about female excellence. She advocates for a society where individuals are valued for their abilities and potential rather than traditional gender roles or marital status.
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