Fellow Nurses Africa News Desk || May 29, 2025|| Accra Ghana.
Ghanaian Nurse Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti Receives Heroic Welcome Home, Unveils 5 Visionary Plans for $250K Award Prize
In a heartwarming outpouring of national pride, Ghana welcomed its nursing trailblazer, Naomi Oyoe Ohene Oti, with a hero’s reception at Kotoka International Airport on May 29, 2025, celebrating her historic win of the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2025 in Dubai. The Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association (GRNMA), joined by colleagues, national executives, and enthusiastic well-wishers, gathered to honor the oncology nurse who rose above 100,000 nominees from 199 countries to claim the prestigious $250,000 award for her exceptional contributions to cancer care, nursing leadership, and education across Africa.
As Head of Nursing at the National Radiotherapy Oncology and Nuclear Medicine Centre at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, Naomi has dedicated over two decades to transforming oncology nursing. Her pioneering work in training over 60 oncology nurse specialists and 10 breast care nurses in Ghana, coupled with her mentorship and advocacy, has cemented her status as a global icon in healthcare.
A Hero’s Welcome for a Nursing Visionary
The vibrant scene at Kotoka International Airport was filled with cheers and tributes as the GRNMA and supporters celebrated Naomi’s return. Her victory represents a monumental achievement for Ghanaian and African nursing, showcasing the profound impact of nurses on global health. “Naomi’s triumph is a beacon of hope, proving that African nurses can lead on the world stage,” said a GRNMA representative. Her win is a testament to the resilience, compassion, and innovation of nurses across the continent.
In her moving acceptance speech in Dubai, Naomi dedicated her award to her peers:
“This honor belongs to every nurse who serves with heart and courage. We are not just caregivers—we are changemakers, shaping healthier futures for our communities.”
Her words have sparked inspiration, urging nurses to embrace leadership and drive transformative change.
Five Visionary Plans for the $250,000 Prize
Naomi’s achievement goes beyond personal recognition—she is committed to using the $250,000 prize to revolutionize nursing and cancer care across Africa. She has outlined five transformative initiatives:
- Harmonizing Oncology Training Across Africa: Naomi aims to standardize oncology nursing education, empowering African nurses to match global standards and elevate cancer care across the continent.
- Developing a Leadership App for Ghanaian Nurses: To foster professional growth, Naomi will create a digital platform for Ghanaian nurses to connect, access leadership resources, and advocate for change.
- Training Fund for Cancer Genetic Council for African nurses: Recognizing the future of cancer care, Naomi will establish a fund to train African nurses in advanced cancer genetic counseling.
- Scholarship Fund for Ghanaian Nurses: To inspire the next generation, Naomi will launch a scholarship fund to support nursing students, ensuring a lasting legacy of excellence.
- Building Faculty Capacity: By investing in faculty development, Naomi will strengthen nursing education systems, promoting sustainable growth in specialized care.
These bold initiatives reflect Naomi’s vision of addressing healthcare disparities, nurturing leadership, and advancing nursing education across Africa.
A Global Spotlight on African Nursing
Naomi’s journey to the Aster Guardians Global Nursing Award 2025, organized by Aster DM Healthcare, was a remarkable feat. Selected from over 100,000 nominations worldwide, she outshone global finalists, including Kenya’s Khadija Mohamed Juma, to claim the top honor. The award ceremony, held on May 26, 2025, in Dubai, was attended by His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mabarak Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, alongside Dr. Azad Moopen and Alisha Moopen of Aster DM Healthcare. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, delivered a message praising the global impact of nurses like Naomi.
Dr. Azad Moopen lauded Naomi’s contributions: “She redefines nursing as a force for innovation and equity.” Alisha Moopen added, “Naomi’s work inspires us to recognize the unsung heroism of nurses worldwide.”
A Call to Action for Nurses
Naomi’s collaborations with organizations like the African Organisation for Research and Training in Cancer (AORTIC) and institutions such as the Cross Cancer Institute in Canada highlight her commitment to global health equity. Her victory is a rallying cry for nurses to embrace leadership, advocate for better healthcare systems, and drive innovation. As Ghana celebrates Naomi’s achievement, her visionary plans promise to transform nursing education and cancer care, leaving a lasting impact across Africa.
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Congratulations ma. You’re raising the bars high and and I am proud to be a nurse. Continue to blaze the trails.