In the rural north of Cameroon, Sabine Adeline Fanta Yadang and Hadidjatou Daïrou have defied the odds to pursue scientific careers. Sabine, a neuroscientist, and Hadidjatou, a cellular physiology doctoral student, were recently awarded the L’Oréal-Unesco Young Talent Prize for Women in Science, recognizing their research on traditional medicinal plants in Cameroon.
Sabine Adeline Fanta Yadang and Hadidjatou Daïrou received the prestigious L’Oréal-Unesco Young Talent Prize for Women in Science on November 8, 2023. Their research focuses on the potential of traditional medicinal plants in Cameroon for treating cardiovascular diseases and Alzheimer’s. This recognition highlights the quality of their work and its potential impact.
Both researchers work at the Institute of Medical Research and Study of Medicinal Plants (IMPM) in Yaoundé, the capital city of Cameroon. Their collaboration allows them to combine their expertise and contribute to the institute’s mission of exploring the healing properties of medicinal plants.
Fanta Yadang, as she prefers to be called, remains deeply connected to her Moundang heritage, where her grandparents used plants for healing. With a background in neuroscience, Fanta Yadang’s research focuses on understanding the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Alzheimer’s. She aims to discover new therapeutic sources in medicinal plants to combat these conditions.
Hadidjatou’s passion for medicinal plants grew during her pharmacology studies at the University of Ngaoundéré. Her research centers on the indigenous plant Garcinia Kola, commonly known as “Garcinia nut,” which has potential in treating cardiovascular diseases. She believes that this plant, widely consumed in Africa, could contribute to improving cardiovascular health, especially in combating atherosclerosis.
In Cameroon, traditional medicine plays a significant role in healthcare. Many patients turn to plants for treatment before seeking hospital care. Fanta Yadang and Hadidjatou’s research aims to explore and harness the healing potential of these traditional medicinal plants, providing more accessible and affordable alternatives for patients.
Fanta Yadang and Hadidjatou’s achievements are exceptional, given the limited opportunities for girls in their region to pursue higher education. With the support of their families, they have defied societal expectations and excelled in their scientific pursuits. Their success serves as an inspiration to other young girls in Cameroon.
With the recognition and financial support from the L’Oréal-Unesco Young Talent Prize, Hadidjatou will complete her doctoral studies, while Fanta Yadang will continue her research at the University of Ibadan in Nigeria. For #Puissance237, their dedication and commitment to scientific exploration offer hope for a brighter future in Africa, and Cameroon.
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