Obi Light Ogbonnia: From Kenya to Global Sickle Cell Advocacy
Obi Light Ogbonnia, Founder and President of Sickle Cell Foundation and Chief Executive Officer at VTN Global Resources Limited, shared a post on LinkedIn:
”My First Time in Kenya: A Journey of Purpose
Five days ago, I arrived at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, Nairobi, Kenya – my first time in this beautiful country.
But this is more than a trip.
I came because of sickle cell, a condition I have lived with for 52 years, and one that has transformed my personal experience into a purpose of service and advocacy.
I am deeply grateful to the Global Alliance of Sickle Cell Disease Organizations (GASCDO) for inviting me to the 3rd Global Sickle Cell Disease Conference, taking place in Nairobi from September 1–3, 2026.
From Surviving to Speaking
Through the Obi Ogbonnia Sickle Cell Foundation (OOSCF), I have dedicated myself to advocating for better healthcare, stronger support systems and improved quality of life for people living with sickle cell disease.
I am particularly honoured to participate in the Warriors Focus Group and Panel Discussion, bringing the voice of lived experience to this global conversation.
The conference theme, ‘Global Standards, Local Impact,’ reminds us that global knowledge must translate into local action and better lives.
Most importantly, warriors must have a seat at the table where decisions about our lives are being made.
My heartfelt appreciation goes to Biba TINGA and Global Alliance of Sickle Cell Disease Organizations (GASCDO), alongside the Sickle Cell Federation of Kenya, for creating this platform and believing in the power of the warrior’s voice.
From Nigeria to Kenya.
From surviving to serving.
From lived experience to global advocacy.
Nairobi, thank you for having me.”

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