About Us
Nufu Foundation Overview
“50% of individuals diagnosed with breast cancer in Ghana do not survive, a stark contrast to the global average survival rate of 90%. This disparity isn’t just alarming; it’s a call to action.
We cannot and will not accept this as our reality.”
Nufu Foundation Board of Trustees
Dr Lily Paemka
Dr Lily Paemka is a molecular geneticist and senior lecturer in the Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology Department at the University of Ghana. She completed her PhD at the University of Iowa, where she studied genes linked to autism spectrum disorders and epilepsy, and later conducted postdoctoral research on cystic fibrosis and cancer genetics. As a Principal Investigator in Ghana, Dr Paemka’s research focuses on breast cancer genetic risk factors, prostate cancer epigenetics, and the genetics of multiple myeloma in Ghanaians, with a keen interest in understanding genetic variations in Africans and their role in cancer.
Beyond her academic and research endeavours, Dr. Paemka is a passionate advocate for health awareness. She is the founder and director of the Nufu Foundation, which leads the annual Nufufest breast cancer awareness campaign. Since 2018, this initiative has empowered communities with vital knowledge and resources to fight breast cancer. Dr. Paemka is a recipient of prestigious fellowships, including the DELTAS Africa and OWSD Early Career fellowships, and also serves as the Deputy Director of Research and Entrepreneurship at the University of Ghana
Mr. Abdul-Nasser Alidu
Abdul-Nasser Alidu is a seasoned strategist and Managing Consultant at The Little Cow Consulting Limited, a Global Full-Service Marketing Agency focused on growing audacious brands in the areas of Business Strategy Development, Strategic Marketing, Creative Design (Advertising), Research and Strategic Distribution. With over 15 years working as a marketing & strategy professional on three continents, his experience includes roles at Millicom [Marketing Director (Africa), Commercial Manager for Mobile Financial Services and Head of Product Innovation], Dell Inc [SMB Brand Manager (USA), Merchandising Manager (USA)], Payinc Group [Chief Commercial Officer & Cofounder (UK)], Ecobank Ghana Limited [Sales and Marketing Officer] and the Ghana Climate Innovation Centre [Entrepreneurship Director, Marketing Director]. He doubles as a lecturer at the Ashesi University teaching courses in Strategy and Marketing.
He holds an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management (Northwestern University) and a bachelor’s in computer science and economics from the University of Ghana.
Prof. Gordon Awandare
Prof. Gordon A. Awandare, a parasitologist, serves as the Pro-Vice Chancellor for Academic and Student Affairs at the University of Ghana. He is the founding Director of the West African Center for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens (WACCBIP) and chairs the CKT-UTAS governing council. Additionally, he holds the role of Africa Global Editor for the Experimental Biology and Medicine (EBM) journal.
With a PhD in Infectious Diseases and Microbiology from the University of Pittsburgh, and MPhil and BSc in Biochemistry from the University of Ghana, Prof. Awandare’s expertise is widely recognized. He has been a member of the Academic Board and served on the Business and Executive Committee for many years within the University of Ghana. He has also held various leadership positions, including Chairman of the University of Development Studies’ Audit Report Implementing Committee and membership in numerous academic and research committees at both national and international levels.
Who we are
The Nufu Foundation nonprofit organisation created with the vision of a future where every African community is informed, proactive, and supported in the fight against breast cancer, drastically reducing the disproportionate mortality and bringing hope to every diagnosed individual. Stemming from the pioneering work of the Paemka Lab at the University of Ghana, we exist at the intersection of academic research and community activism geared towards significantly reducing the incidence of breast cancer morbidity and mortality.
Our Campaign Journey
Nufufest has made strides in the battle against breast cancer. Over the years, we have successfully organized five editions where over 2,000 women and men have been screened and educated about breast health .
Nufufest VI
The 6th edition of Nufufest, dubbed Nufufest VI takes place from October 1st, 2023 to September 30th, 2024. Our long-term goal is to reduce Breast Cancer Mortality by 2.5% annually. With your support, we aim to make a profound impact on the lives of Ghanaian women.
Our Target Audience
Our initiatives are designed to reach all individuals, with a specific focus on women aged 25 years and above. We recognize that breast cancer affects both men and women of all ages, which is why early detection is vital in our mission.
We do this through
Our Mission
At the Nufu Foundation, we are on a mission to empower African communities with comprehensive breast cancer education and promote early detection and advocacy to address the disproportionately high mortality rates.
What sets us apart
The Nufu Foundation stands out for several reasons:
Research Driven
Nufu Foundation is a product of a cancer research laboratory at the University of Ghana, and our work is guided by cuttingedge science.
Dedicated Team
A team of professionals and volunteers embodying dedication and expertise, steadfast in our journey towards eradicating breast cancer
Community Engagement
We engage with local communities and collaborate with other organisations, medical institutions, and businesses to raise funds, promote awareness, and support breast cancer patients and survivors.
Transparency
We stand for complete transparency and accountability in our financial and operational conduct. Donors can trust that their contributions are making a real impact.
Holistic Approach
Our strategy encompasses every facet of the breast cancer journey, from prevention, early detection, treatment, and survivorship.