Nigerian singer Adekunle Gold has been vocal about his advocacy for better healthcare for sickle cell patients, drawing from his personal experiences with the disease. In a recent interview with Larry Madowo on CNN African Voices, Adekunle Gold shared his motivations and the journey behind his advocacy efforts.
He expressed a deep desire to ensure that people with sickle cell disease feel safe, supported, and have access to necessary healthcare. Adekunle Gold revealed that his inspiration to advocate came while writing his song “5 Star,” where he reflected on his own life and the challenges posed by sickle cell disease. He highlighted a specific line from the song, “Sickle cell showed me Crises,” which resonated deeply with his personal struggles.
From a young age, Adekunle Gold knew about his condition and the limitations it imposed on his life. He recalled childhood memories of being unable to engage in certain activities due to sickle cell-related crises, which often landed him in hospitals.
The singer stressed the urgency of improving healthcare infrastructure and support systems for sickle cell patients, especially for those who lack access to basic healthcare necessities. He expressed frustration with international organizations’ inaction on the issue and called for more decisive actions to address the healthcare needs of sickle cell patients globally.
Recently, Adekunle Gold partnered with a sickle cell management initiative in Surulere, Lagos State, to organize a medical outreach for sickle cell patients. This initiative provided essential healthcare services to approximately 250 patients, underscoring his commitment to making a tangible difference in the lives of those affected by the disease.
Adekunle Gold’s advocacy efforts continue to raise awareness and push for meaningful change, aiming to create a more supportive environment for individuals living with sickle cell disease. His actions serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for many, encouraging others to join the cause and support those in need of better healthcare access and support.