Ghana is celebrating a major achievement in healthcare as Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti, a distinguished oncology nurse and educator, has been named one of the top ten finalists for the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2025! This prestigious award, carrying a grand prize of $250,000, recognizes nurses who have made significant contributions to healthcare and community service.

Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti, who leads nursing at the National Radiotherapy, Oncology and Nuclear Medicine Centre at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, stood out from over 100,000 nominations from 199 countries. Her selection as a finalist highlights her pioneering work in oncology education and policy reform, not just in Ghana, but across Africa.

A Trailblazer in Oncology Nursing

Oti was instrumental in establishing Ghana’s first formal oncology nurse training program, which has already produced over 60 certified oncology specialists and 10 breast care nurses. Her dedication to building capacity in cancer care is truly remarkable.

But her influence doesn’t stop at Ghana’s borders. Oti plays a key role in the African Organisation for Research and Training in Cancer (AORTIC) and is a co-investigator on the Global Bridges Oncology Grant. She has mentored nearly 50 nurses across Africa, enhancing cancer care capabilities and promoting nurse-led healthcare innovations.

Raising the Profile of African Nurses

Oti is one of two African finalists, alongside Kenya’s Khadija Mohamed Juma, who created the RedSplash app to improve emergency blood donation services. Their inclusion highlights the growing global recognition of African nurses, especially in oncology and public health innovation.

The winner will be announced in Dubai on May 26, 2025, following public voting and a final evaluation by the Grand Jury. Let’s rally behind Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti and show our support for her incredible contributions to healthcare!

This is a moment of pride for Ghana and a testament to the dedication and expertise of African nurses on the global stage.