IN an interview with Larry Madowo on CNN African Voices, Nigerian singer Adekunle Gold shared his journey with sickle cell disease and his motivations for advocating for those affected.
Gold revealed that he wants to provide support and a sense of safety for those living with the condition, stating, "I want people with sickle cell to feel safe and to feel like they have help, and to feel like they have support."
Adekunle's advocacy efforts were inspired by his experiences and reflections while writing his song "5 Star."
He explained, "When I was writing the song... I was reflecting on my life and how I'm a miracle... I thought, why don't I just lend my voice? People are dying, people are going through it."
The singer has been open about his struggles with sickle cell since childhood, saying, "I have always known that I had sickle cell... I had crises every time when I was a child and was in the hospital back to back."
Adekunle emphasised the need for improved healthcare infrastructure and support systems for individuals living with sickle cell disease. He urged international organisations to take action, stating, "I'm privileged to have access to these things... think about people who don't have access to basic things to sustain their health. If the international organisations aren't doing anything about it, it's time to force their hands."
Through his advocacy efforts, Adekunle Gold hopes to make a difference in the lives of those affected by sickle cell disease.
