By Ayo Onikoyi

The Adekunle Gold Foundation has provided critical medical support to more than 400 people living with Sickle Cell Disease in Lagos during its quarterly outreach programme held on March 14.

The initiative, carried out in partnership with the Sickle Cell Advocacy & Management Initiative, delivered a wide range of healthcare services, including specialist consultations, laboratory testing, blood transfusions for patients with severe anaemia, pain and crisis management, physiotherapy, and distribution of essential medications.

Beneficiaries also received prescription drugs and treatment supplies intended to support their care for up to three months, addressing a key challenge for many patients who struggle with the cost of long-term treatment.

Nigeria bears the highest global burden of sickle cell disease, with millions affected and thousands of new cases recorded annually. Despite its prevalence, the condition continues to receive limited global attention and funding compared to other diseases.

The foundation was established by award-winning musician Adekunle Gold, who has lived with the condition since childhood and has become an advocate for improved care and awareness.

“Living with sickle cell disease is something I understand personally,” he said. “It’s not just the physical pain, it’s the constant need for medical care and support that many people simply cannot afford. Through the foundation, we want to ensure that more people living with sickle cell disease have access to the care they need to live full and healthy lives.”

Beyond medical outreaches, the foundation has also introduced long-term healthcare initiatives. In 2025, it launched the 5 Star Care programme, providing free health insurance coverage to 1,000 individuals living with the condition. The initiative was implemented in collaboration with the Lagos State Ministry of Health and the Lagos State Health Management Agency to improve sustained access to healthcare services.

The foundation is also expanding its impact through international research partnerships, including collaboration with the New York University Department of Global Health, aimed at developing improved treatment options and enhancing quality of life for patients.

Through its combined efforts in medical outreach, healthcare access, and research, the Adekunle Gold Foundation continues to draw attention to sickle cell disease while providing tangible support to those affected.