Catherine Nakalembe (Kampala Uganda) – Dr Nakalembe is a remote sensing scientist, born in Kampala, who uses satellite imagery and data analysis to monitor agricultural patterns and food security in Africa. Her work helps smallholder farmers by providing timely information on crop health, yields and potential challenges. She was recognized as a CNN Hero in 2020 for her efforts in using technology to address food security issues.
She gained international recognition for her work in using satellite imagery and remote sensing techniques to monitor and manage agricultural resources, particularly in Africa.
Nakalembe has been affiliated with institutions such as the University of Maryland where she was a research assistant professor and a member of the NASA Harvest Consortium. She has been involved in projects aimed at improving food security, predicting and mitigating crop failures and providing decision-makers with data-driven insights into agricultural conditions.
Esther Ngumbi (Kenya) – Dr Ngumbi is a prominent entomologist and advocate for sustainable agriculture. Her research focuses on developing environmentally friendly pest management strategies to improve crop yields. She is also a strong advocate for women and girls in STEM, encouraging them to pursue careers in science through her writing and speaking engagements.
These are just two examples of African female scientists who have made remarkable contributions to their fields and have inspired countless others to follow in their footsteps. Their stories showcase the importance of diversity and inclusivity in the world of science and highlight the potential for positive change that arises from women’s participation in STEM disciplines.
