Freetown, SIERRA LEONE – Distinguished Sierra Leonean scholar, Professor Johannes John-Langba, has emerged as a prominent figure on the prestigious Most Influential People of African Descent (MIPAD) Global Top 100 list for 2023. Acknowledged for his exceptional contributions to the health and medical care arena, Professor John-Langba’s remarkable achievements have earned him this coveted recognition.
Reflecting on his inclusion among the world’s eminent personalities, Prof. John-Langba expressed his humility, stating, “It is a truly humbling experience to be counted amongst the Global Top 100 Most Influential People of African Descent. I am both honored and surreal to have my contributions acknowledged alongside notable Africans such as the Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), the former Director of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), and the South African Minister of Health.”
In his dedication to advancing mental health research and advocating for increased investment in mental health across Africa, Professor John-Langba finds renewed inspiration from this global accolade.
Born in Sierra Leone and an alumnus of Njala University College, Professor John-Langba currently imparts his knowledge at the School of Applied Human Science within the College of Humanities at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, located in South Africa.
Upon learning of this significant recognition, Professor Nhlanhla Mkhize, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the College of Humanities at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), expressed his delight, remarking, “This remarkable achievement not only shines a light on Prof. Langba but also reflects positively on UKZN. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to him and encourage everyone to steadfastly pursue our shared objectives, thereby influencing the next generation of leaders.”
An eminent scholar specializing in social and behavioral sciences, Professor John-Langba also holds the prestigious role of Africa Regional Vice-President for the World Federation for Mental Health (WFMH). He actively contributes to the editorial boards of esteemed national and international academic journals, while also serving as Vice-President and Mental Health Ambassador of Cape Mental Health (CMH). Furthermore, he plays a pivotal role as Co-Chair of the Data Ethics Working Group under the International Science Council’s Committee on Data (CODATA) and is a valued member of the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Substance Abuse Forum.
The upcoming Most Influential 100 Recognition Weekend 2023 (RW 2023) is scheduled to take place following the opening of the 78th United Nations General Assembly in New York City, spanning from September 28 to October 2 this year. This celebration promises to be an inspiring event, honoring remarkable individuals who have significantly impacted their respective fields. KXL/15/8/2023
