In appreciation of her immense leadership and illustrious advocacy on sexual and reproductive health and rights and gender equality, Dr. Natalia Kanem was awarded an Honorary Doctorate Degree by The University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria held on Saturday, 27th November, 2021, as part of activities to mark the 46th and 47th Convocation Ceremony. The occasion was graced by dignitaries including top government officials, The Executive Governor of Edo State – Mr. Godwin Nogheghase Obaseki, Academics, Religious and Political Leaders, Civil Society Organisations, amongst others.
The conferment of honorary doctorate degree on Dr. Natalia Kanem was done by Prof. Lilian Salami (Vice Chancellor, University of Benin). Present at the ceremony was Prof. Friday Okonofua (Director of Research and Programs, WHARC); Prof. Racheal Snow, Population and Development Branch, United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA); Dr. Wilson Imongan (Executive Director, WHARC); Prof. Akhere Omonkhua, AREF Leader, Centre of Excellence in Reproductive Health Innovation (CERHI) amongst others. A reception party was later held at the Banquet Hall of the University of Benin where guests were treated to sumptuous meals, choice drinks and good music by the Benin traditional dance troupe whose performance thrilled both celebrant and guests.
Dr. Natalia Kanem is currently the Executive Secretary – United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). She has more than 30 years of strategic leadership experience in fields of preventive medicine, public and reproductive health, social justice and philanthropy. She is the fifth Executive Director of UNFPA since the Fund became operational in 1969.
From all of us at WHARC, Congratulations to a wonderful icon on her meritorious award.