In the heart of Rwanda, a beacon of hope and resilience shines brightly in the medical field. Dr. Claire Karekezi, Rwanda’s first woman neurosurgeon, stands as a towering figure of inspiration, not just within the confines of her homeland but across the globe. As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we delve into the life of a woman who has defied odds, shattered glass ceilings, and paved the way for future generations in the realm of neurosurgery.
Born in 1982 in Butare, Rwanda, to a family valuing education and perseverance, Claire Karekezi was destined for greatness. Her father, a telecommunication engineer, and her mother, a high school teacher, instilled the importance of education early on. Karekezi’s journey into the medical world began with a passion for science, leading her to major in mathematics and physics in high school. This foundation paved her way into the University of Rwanda College of Medicine and Health Sciences, where she embarked on a journey that would later define her career and contributions to neurosurgery.
Karekezi’s academic path was marked by pivotal moments, including international exchanges in Sweden and the UK, that fueled her passion for neurosurgery. Her residency in Rabat, Morocco, under the World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies, and subsequent fellowships in the United States and Canada, equipped her with unparalleled expertise in neuro-oncology and skull-base surgery.
Returning to Rwanda in 2018, Dr. Karekezi joined the Rwanda Military Hospital, where she not only established the first neurosurgical unit but also became a beacon of hope and a role model for aspiring surgeons. In 2019, she was elected as the chair of the African Women in Neurosurgery (AWIN) section of the Continental Association of African Neurosurgical Societies (CAANS).
Karekezi has led numerous projects on the history of women in neurosurgery and their current status on the African continent, highlighting the underrepresentation of women in leadership positions and academic neurosurgery, efforts to improve Neurosurgery Education and brain tumor treatment advances particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa.
She continues to raise awareness about the need for more experienced female neurosurgeons in order to assist other young women in overcoming various obstacles inherent to the field.
She is also an advocate and inspiration for other young women who wish to pursue STEM fields (science, engineering, technology, and mathematics)
Dr. Karekezi’s influence is evident in her numerous accolades, including awards from prestigious institutions such as the American Association of Neurological Surgeons and Forbes Woman Africa. These recognitions underscore her contributions to neurosurgery, women’s empowerment, and the medical community at large.
Beyond her clinical and surgical expertise, Dr. Karekezi is a luminary for women in science and medicine. Her dedication to mentorship and education, particularly in a continent facing a dire need for medical professionals, embodies the spirit of International Women’s Day. Through her words and actions, Dr. Karekezi challenges the narrative around African women in STEM and inspires countless young minds to pursue their dreams, irrespective of the barriers.
Dr. Claire Karekezi’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, education, and unwavering determination. As the first woman neurosurgeon in Rwanda, her story is not just one of personal achievement but a beacon of hope and change for future generations. On this International Women’s Day, we celebrate Dr. Karekezi, not only for her groundbreaking contributions to neurosurgery but for her role as a trailblazer, mentor, and advocate for women in science and medicine worldwide.
