AFRICA | A brilliant young African doctor, Mumba Chalwe-Kaja, has made history by becoming the first ever female urological surgeon in Zambia.
Mumba began her academic journey at Rayzan Medical University, where she obtained her Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery. She proceeded to earn a Master of Medicine in Urology at the University of Zambia.
This achievement led her to become the first female Urological Surgeon in Zambia. A urological surgeon is a medical professional that deals with diagnosing and treating conditions related to the kidneys, bladder, urethra, and the urinary tract.
Reflecting on her journey, Mumba shared that she had always envisioned herself pushing boundaries and walking paths not often taken. Her drive was not just rooted in ambition, but in purpose.
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She did not just want to succeed—she wanted to create impact, to inspire, and to contribute meaningfully to her community and the world around her.”Medicine was always a childhood dream,” Mumba said.
”Urology on the other hand, was a career choice based on many factors. I love challenges and the surgical field offered this. Urology as a specialty is dynamic and the fact that Zambia had no female representatives. The desire to defy stereotypes and make a positive impact on people’s lives was a huge motivation,” she added.
Mumba also added that she desired a career that combines rapid advancements, technology, and innovation, and Urology, in her view, perfectly aligns with these criteria. She was motivated to study medicine after she came across a female doctor.
She wants her accomplishments to inspire other women and girls.. “Like I always say, ‘iron sharpens iron. ‘ if women and girls can see fellow women as achievers outside the domestic sphere, they can aim higher,” she said.
On the path to success, Mumba faced some challenges working in a male-dominated field, especially with the common stereotype of urologists as older men, unlike her. However, since she became a Urologist, more women have joined.
Her gender and age have also led to frequent questions about her competence and abilities, but she did not let it get to her.
“It’s multifaceted I believe. The surgical field can be demanding. The training for me it’s been a 14-year journey. I also believe more female role models are needed. We need to debunk the “surgery is for men” myth,” Mumba said.
“What might seem like ‘my’ achievement is a testament to ‘Our’ openers to change as a nation. Both Men and women mentored me… The community has accepted me and even encouraged me! That right there is a sign that the tide is ever so slowly changing. I’m not oblivious to the challenges, BUT I’m proof that we can overcome anything,” she added.
Advising young African girls, Mumba encourages them to never stop believing, and push harder, even when doors close, they should find a way out in any way possible
”You are sufficient. You deserve it. Your age and gender should never be a hindrance; they are your biggest asset! Simply put- gather up all the courage you can and just go for it,” she said.
Mumba’s vision for Africa is mainly about female excellence. She advocates for a society where individuals are valued for their abilities and potential rather than traditional gender roles or marital status.
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