The REACH Network is proud to recognise and celebrate its Co-chair, Professor Samba Sow, on the occasion of his elevation to the rank of Commander of the Malian Order of Merit, the country’s highest distinction in the field of health.
This prestigious honour recognizes Professor Sow’s unwavering commitment and dedication to improving public health in Mali and beyond.
Professor Sow’s career as a medical doctor and epidemiologist has been marked by significant contributions to combating infectious diseases. As Director General of the Center for Vaccine Development in Mali (CVD-Mali), he has led a great many vaccine studies.
As Minister of Health and Public Hygiene of the Republic of Mali from 2017 to 2019, implemented important health sector reforms, including free antenatal and maternal healthcare, as well as free care for children under five.
Pioneering
Professor Sow’s exceptional work has also been recognised internationally. He was elected to the United States’ prestigious National Academy of Medicine in 2021 “for groundbreaking vaccine field studies … pioneering studies of disease burden and etiology … and leadership in control of emerging infections (Ebola, COVID-19) in Mali and West Africa.”
Honouring partners and communities
Being recognised by one’s own country, however, is its own particular – and special – honour and we know that Professor Sow, as a proud Malian, will have been particularly grateful to accept this latest accolade on behalf of all his collaborators, co-workers, partners, and the communities they serve.
We have no doubt either that this award will spur on our committed, driven Co-chair to still greater challenges!
Congratulations Professor Sow on this richly-deserved recognition.
