Global surgical equity events
Symposia & Convenings

Global Surgical Equity Events

Bridging the gap between surgical innovation and healthcare accessibility through evidence-based dialogue, workshops, and international collaboration.

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Past Events

Browse recordings and materials from previous events.

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22Apr
Surgical Society of Kenya Annual Scientific Conference

Global Surgery: Translating International Protocols to Practical Local Solutions

As part of the SSK Annual Scientific Conference 2026, SWEL Founder Dr. Jill Mayunga participated in a panel discussion exploring how to translate international guidelines into practical solutions that improve patient care. Held under the conference theme “From Policy to Patient: Transforming Surgical Access Across Africa,” the session brought together surgeons, researchers, policymakers, and practitioners to examine why many evidence-based interventions struggle to achieve sustained impact despite strong supporting evidence. The discussion identified five common barriers to implementation: resource constraints, organisational readiness, policy and financing gaps, limited stakeholder engagement, and poorly designed rollout strategies. Key Reflections Effective implementation requires adaptation without compromising quality Sustainable change depends on financing, governance, and institutional support Healthcare workers must be involved in designing implementation strategies Data and monitoring systems are essential for long-term success African institutions must lead in shaping surgical policy and practice

10Mar
Nairobi, Kenya

Advancing Gender Inclusive Surgical Systems

As part of International Women’s Week 2026, SWEL in collaboration with GEIGS convened surgical trainees, consultants, academic leaders, and members of KAWS for a national roundtable examining the future of surgical training in Kenya. Through a moderated panel discussion, Dr. Lydia Okutoyi, Dr. Sheila Mwaruka, Dr. Nicholas Okumu, and Dr. Kathleen Kabeu reflected on surgical training, institutional leadership, healthcare quality, mentorship, and the conditions needed to build more inclusive and sustainable surgical careers. Key Insights Sustainability of Surgical Careers — burnout, work-life balance, and family planning as key factors in career decisions Training Culture and Inclusivity — the importance of fostering environments that support all trainees Structural Barriers — clearer institutional policies needed for major life transitions Parenthood, Leave, and Return to Training — clear pathways that protect progression Mentorship and Leadership Development — structured mentorship programmes as a top priority The roundtable reinforced the need to move beyond conversations about representation toward practical institutional reforms that support career sustainability and workforce retention.

8Mar
Nairobi, Kenya

Celebrating Women Surgeons: Past, Present and Future

To mark International Women’s Day 2025, SWEL in collaboration with GEIGS convened a national forum exploring the experiences, achievements, and future of women in surgery in Kenya. Held under the theme “Celebrating Women Surgeons: Past, Present and Future,” the event brought together medical students, trainees, surgeons, policymakers, and advocates for a day of reflection and dialogue on advancing equity within the surgical workforce. The programme featured keynote remarks from Dr. Violet Kemunto Otoki and panel discussions with Dr. Miriam Mutebi, Huwaida Bulhan, Dr. Fridah Bosire, and Michael Mwachiro. A dedicated session on “Motherhood, Surgery and Everything in Between” created space for candid conversations around maternity, training, and career sustainability. Key Themes Mentorship and sponsorship as drivers of career progression Sustainable surgical careers and workforce retention Leadership pathways for women in surgery Maternity and postnatal support during training Workplace culture, inclusion, and belonging Building equitable surgical systems for future generations

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