Thokozile Manaka, a talented data scientist and researcher from Lesotho, has been selected as part of the second cohort of the African Union Innovation Fellowship. The program, launched in March 2024, attracted over 3,000 applications, with only 19 fellows chosen to work with African Union host units, enhancing their operations while gaining skills in entrepreneurship, leadership, and professional development.
Manaka, whose background includes a strong foundation in Mathematics and Physics, is set to join the Africa CDC at the African Union Commission. Her research focuses on the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and healthcare, with a particular emphasis on improving healthcare delivery in underserved communities, especially in lower- and middle-income countries. She aims to use machine learning and natural language processing techniques to drive digital health innovation and improve patient outcomes.
“I am excited about the opportunity to collaborate with experts and develop digital health solutions that can enhance healthcare and inform evidence-based policies,” said Manaka. She is optimistic that her work will contribute to creating a sustainable framework to tackle Africa’s unique health challenges and drive systemic improvements across the continent.
Lesotho’s Permanent Representative to the African Union, Ambassador Ntsiuoa Sekete, expressed pride in Manaka’s achievement, noting the growing presence of qualified Basotho youth within international organizations. He praised Manaka’s selection as a significant milestone, urging young Basotho, particularly women, to be bold in contributing to solving Africa’s challenges.
This development coincides with ongoing efforts by the Ministry of Information, Communications, Science, Technology, and Innovation, along with the Office of the Prime Minister, to foster innovation and talent among Lesotho’s youth through programs like Sebabatso.
