Nigerian singer Adekunle Gold has recently opened up about his personal journey with sickle cell disease and his motivation for advocating better healthcare for sickle cell patients.
In an interview with CNN's Larry Madowo on the African Voices segment, the singer shared how he gained the courage to speak up about his condition and the inspiration behind his advocacy efforts.
Adekunle Gold revealed that while writing his song "5 Star," he reflected on his life and realized he could use his voice to support others with sickle cell disease. He explained, "I have always known that I had sickle cell.
I knew since I was a child that I couldn't do certain things. I was told 'You have sickle cell so you can't play in the rain like your peers.' I had crises every time when I was a child and was in the hospital back to back."
The singer emphasized the need for improved healthcare infrastructure and support systems for individuals living with sickle cell disease.
He highlighted his own privilege in having access to basic healthcare and urged international organizations to take action.
Recently, Adekunle Gold partnered with a sickle cell management initiative in Surulere, Lagos State, to host a medical outreach for sickle cell patients. The outreach successfully provided basic healthcare to about 250 patients.
Through his advocacy efforts, Adekunle Gold hopes to create awareness about sickle cell disease and push for better healthcare for those affected by it.
