Sunday 30 April 2017

PRESTIGIOUS INTERNATIONAL AWARDS DEDICATED TO ZAMBIAN WOMAN

On 19 April, the inaugural Women in Focus Awards took place in Geneva, Switzerland celebrating the crucial role women play in the ongoing fight against Neglected Tropical Diseases, a role which often goes unrecognized and unrewarded.


The Women in Focus Leadership Award was presented in dedication to the memory ofDr Likezo Mubila, a Zambian public health expert who sadly passed away at home in Harare, Zimbabwe in 2011.

 Dr Likezo Mubila was dedicated to the fight against neglected tropical diseases. These are diseases that affect the poorest and most vulnerable communities in the world, mainly in Africa. She worked for the Department of Biology at the University of Zambia prior to joining the World Health Organization's Regional Office for Africa in 2001 as the focal point for lymphatic filariasis, soil-transmitted helminthiasis and schistosomiasis, three of five most prevalent NTDs in Africa. Today, many countries in Africa, are reaching elimination targets and moving their populations out of poverty, towards the path of prosperity. Togo recently joined the growing list of countries that have eliminated lymphatic filariasis as a public health programme, becoming the first country in Saharan Africa to eliminate LF.

It is through the personal dedication and the groundwork that Dr Mubila laid, in the establishment of the NTD program at WHO AFRO, that we are now seeing such tremendous progress in the fight against NTDs in Africa. We owe much of this progress to Dr Mubila and we are delighted to be honoring her contribution through the launch of this award.

Edridah Muheki from Uganda was delighted to be the first ever recipient of the Women in Focus Leadership award in honour of Likezo Mubila. On receiving her award she said:
I am so encouraged by this recognition and feel highly appreciated. This is such an amazing incentive because it mirrors the teamwork we have built in Uganda as an NTD family. I am very grateful to have been nominated and to the people who decided I should win.”

As 2017 marks the 5th anniversary of the World Health Organization’s roadmap on NTDs and the London Declaration, the awards celebrate this milestone by shining a light on the inspirational women helping to control, eliminate and eradicate 10 neglected tropical diseases.

Dr. Julie Jacobson, Chair of the stakeholders working group of Uniting to Combat NTDs), says: “The Women in Focus Awards shine a light on women from all over the world who are working in their local communities, making a remarkable impact on tackling Neglected Tropical Diseases just as Dr Likezo Mubila did. One in seven people on the planet suffer from these diseases. That’s more than the entire population of Europe. Every day women all around the world are making crucial contributions to help defeat them and this is our chance to celebrate and acknowledge their vital role

TSOGO SUN’S SPECIAL SPOTS FOR SUNDOWNERS

“Let us celebrate the occasion with wine and sweet words,” said Roman playwright Plautus more than 2 000 years ago. Jo’burgers love to do just that – celebrate any and every occasion with something bubbly, a glass of wine or a delicious cocktail and scintillating company, somewhere special.


The combination of the perfect drinks offering and exceptional settings is something Tsogo Sun prides itself in particular on three unbeatable spots –  the Island Bar on the pool deck of Southern Sun Hyde Park, the San Deck at Sandton Sun Hotel, and the Skye Bar on the 9th floor of the Holiday Inn Sandton. All three venues are becoming favourite sundowner destinations on Jozi’s vibrant social scene, where the panoramic views, glorious Highveld climate, magnificent African sunsets, and the glittering city night lights add unrivaled atmosphere to every occasion.
The Island Bar at Southern Sun Hyde Park is a trendy and vibrant place around a sparkling pool or comfortable indoor lounge seating, from which to enjoy the stunning view through wall to wall windows. The varied menu offering includes trendy cocktails, light lunchtime snacks, including their renowned sushi and sashimi, and indulgent sundowners. Guests who simply can’t tear themselves away from the view also have the opportunity of dining in LucĂ©, where the finest Italian cuisine is presented by Executive Chef Gareth Jordaan and his talented team, with unique flair, amidst hearty and wholesome flavours.
The San Deck at Sandton Sun is a sophisticated yet trendy outdoor venue that boasts views of the surrounding Sandton skyline topped by unforgettable African sunsets. With three large fire pits, lounge seating, live music, and a DJ on weekends, it’s perfect for informal get-togethers and special social occasions, serving light meals throughout the day. San Deck is also a participating auction wines restaurant, offering South Africa’s exclusive and finest wines, paired with leading executive chef Garth Shnier’s exceptional culinary creations.
The Skye Bar at Holiday Inn Sandton on Rivonia Road is a luxurious and ultra-comfortable venue with a relaxed ambience, also offering panoramic views of Sandton and beyond. It features an inspiring cocktail menu and is a popular place to catch up with friends, enjoy a romantic night out, or entertain corporate colleagues.
Says Priya Naidoo, Tsogo Sun’s GM, Group Communications, “Johannesburg often surprises visitors with its beauty, its friendly ambience, and its celebrated and world-class food and drinks culture. Tsogo Sun is capturing all this and more in our memorable drinks destinations – where locals and visitors alike can enjoy the very best that Jozi has to offer.”

Tsogo Sun’s portfolio includes over 90 hotels and 14 casino and entertainment destinations throughout South Africa, Africa, the Seychelles and Abu Dhabi. For more information, visit tsogosun.com, follow on Twitter and Instagram @TsogoSun or like on Facebook /TsogoSun.