Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka

Gladys Kalema Zikusoka

Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka is a renowned Ugandan veterinarian, conservationist, and the founder of Conservation Through Public Health (CTPH), a non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation of wildlife and community public health in and around Africa's protected areas. Born on January 8, 1970, in Uganda, Kalema-Zikusoka has been a pioneering figure in integrating human and wildlife health for the conservation of great apes and their habitats.

Early Life and Education

Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka was born and raised in Uganda. From a young age, she was fascinated by animals and aspired to become a veterinarian. She pursued her dream by studying veterinary medicine at the Royal Veterinary College, University of London, where she graduated with a degree in veterinary science. Her education laid the foundation for her future career in wildlife conservation and public health.

Career

Kalema-Zikusoka's career began at the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), where she was appointed as the first female veterinary officer. During her tenure at UWA, she initiated the first wildlife translocation and health monitoring programs in the country. Her work involved the care and conservation of Uganda's diverse wildlife, including the endangered mountain gorillas.

In 2003, recognizing the interconnectedness of human and wildlife health, Kalema-Zikusoka founded Conservation Through Public Health. CTPH aims to improve the health of wildlife, livestock, and human communities in and around Africa's protected areas by promoting conservation and public health practices. The organization has been instrumental in reducing human and wildlife conflict, controlling the spread of zoonotic diseases, and promoting sustainable development.

Achievements and Awards

Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka has received numerous awards and recognitions for her contributions to wildlife conservation and public health. These include the prestigious Whitley Gold Award for her work in gorilla conservation, the San Diego Zoo Global Conservation Medal, and the Sierra Club's EarthCare Award. Her innovative approach to integrating human and wildlife health has been recognized globally as a model for conservation efforts in biodiversity hotspots.

Personal Life

Kalema-Zikusoka is married and has children. She often shares her passion for wildlife conservation with her family and involves them in her work whenever possible. Her personal experiences and challenges as a woman in a predominantly male field have inspired many young women in Uganda and beyond to pursue careers in conservation and veterinary medicine.

Legacy and Impact

Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka's work has had a profound impact on conservation efforts in Uganda and across Africa. By highlighting the importance of integrating human and wildlife health, she has paved the way for a more holistic approach to conservation. Her efforts have not only contributed to the protection of endangered species like the mountain gorilla but have also improved the lives of the communities living in close proximity to wildlife.

Through her leadership, CTPH has become a model for community-based conservation efforts, demonstrating that the health of humans, animals, and ecosystems are interconnected and must be addressed collectively to achieve sustainable conservation outcomes.

See Also

• Conservation Through Public Health
• Wildlife conservation
• One Health
• Uganda Wildlife Authority

0