Mary Ofuru Kama
Introduction
A Nigerian lecturer in Software Engineering at Veritas University, Abuja, and a researcher with the High-Performance Intelligent Computing Research Lab, Mary Ofuru Kama is driven by a passion to harness technology for social good.
Her current project uses machine learning to predict crisis occurrences in sickle cell anemia patients, while also exploring the impact of climate change on these crises. For Mary's work is centered on the women and mothers who bear much of the emotional and caregiving burden of chronic illness. Beyond the lab, she actively raises awareness in rural communities, helping young girls understand the genetics of sickle cell disease and make informed health choices.
A Women Techmakers Ambassador and data science enthusiast, Mary collaborates with organizations such as Tech4Dev and Women in Data Science (WiDS) Abuja to mentor girls in technology and close the gender gap in STEM.
Mary envisions an Africa where women’s contributions to AI are institutionally recognized and supported not just symbolically acknowledged. She calls for sustained investment in research, mentorship, and leadership opportunities that elevate African women as key drivers of innovation and knowledge production.