Dr. Benjamin Odongo Elly Celebrated for Mentorship and Maternal Health Leadership at KUMREC Conference

By John Kariuki
Dr. Benjamin Odongo Elly, a respected maternal health champion and former President of the Kenya Obstetrical and Gynaecological Society, was honored during the 3rd Annual Kenyatta University Medical Research Club (KUMREC) Scientific Conference for his outstanding mentorship and pioneering work in maternal and reproductive health.
Held at Kenyatta University, the conference drew medical students, researchers, and healthcare professionals from across the country. Dr. Odongo, who currently leads the Labour, Delivery, and Immediate Postpartum Project, delivered a stirring keynote address that highlighted the transformative power of mentorship, youth-led innovation, and evidence-based research in advancing Kenya’s health sector.
“Mentorship meets momentum,” Dr. Odongo told the audience. “Today’s students are tomorrow’s game changers, and we are in good hands.”
His words resonated deeply with the crowd, particularly the budding scientists and clinicians in attendance. In recognition of his enduring contributions, the KUMREC team presented Dr. Odongo with a special token of appreciation—an emotional moment met with a standing ovation.
Throughout his career, Dr. Odongo has been at the forefront of efforts to reduce maternal mortality in Kenya, especially through initiatives targeting postpartum haemorrhage, a leading cause of maternal deaths. His leadership of the Labour, Delivery, and Immediate Postpartum Project has been instrumental in improving outcomes for mothers during the most critical phases of childbirth.
During his tenure as President of the Kenya Obstetrical and Gynaecological Society, he led reforms that elevated professional standards, strengthened research, and bolstered advocacy for women’s health. As the society marks fifty years of service, Dr. Odongo’s legacy continues to shape its vision and priorities.
The KUMREC conference provided a platform for dialogue, innovation, and the presentation of cutting-edge research by young medical minds. Dr. Odongo’s presence served as a powerful bridge between experience and aspiration, reinforcing the importance of mentorship in cultivating the next generation of healthcare leaders.
His recognition by KUMREC affirms a vital truth: that investing in people—through knowledge-sharing, guidance, and capacity building—is central to achieving sustainable progress in healthcare.
As both a clinician and a mentor, Dr. Benjamin Odongo Elly continues to inspire, not only with his medical expertise but also with his unwavering dedication to empowering others to build a healthier, more resilient .