Our DNA Crusader of the week is Dr Uwom Okereke EZE, a forensic pathologist and clinical forensic physician specialising in forensic death investigation, medicolegal systems, management of the dead, and clinical forensic caseloads.
Uwom is also the President of the African Society of Forensic Medicine (ASFM), which is the Pan-African Association for Forensic Medicine and Science Practitioners, and is hosting the 10th International Forensic Conference from March 7–10, 2023, in Kigali. We chatted with him about this event and what to look forward to.
What is your role?
I'm merely the Chief Servant of the ASFM, a community of forensic medicine and science practitioners in Africa. I'm happy to serve by providing leadership on all our policy drives and operational goals in developing and promoting standard forensic medicine and science practice in Africa. I work with a committed group of executive members, whose main concern is how to best use our forensic expertise to support public health, law and order, justice systems, and good governance in communities across Africa and beyond. And we have enthusiastic members who are willing and ready to make a positive change in the forensic field.
Galvanizing a collaborative effort from within and outside Africa and motivating our members to reach from within and develop context-specific solutions to their peculiar forensic questions, is a role I'm privileged to play.
Why should people attend the Kigali event?
The ASFM Kigali 2023 conference will be a melting point as we gather from across Africa and beyond to discuss a theme that is quite poignant: Harmonisation of Evidence-Based Forensic Science Practice in Africa: A Holistic Approach Towards A Safer Continent.
It is not a subject that any practitioners and other stakeholders would like to miss, as presentations and associated discussions will look at the different frames of forensic science and the pivotal role of evidence towards achieving an orchestra of forensic harmony in practice. It speaks to the integrity of the processes, standard operating procedures, transparency, and consideration of all relevant factors affecting the practice of forensic science in our different jurisdictions across Africa. It'll also look at the big picture: the African continent.
Thoughts on the future of forensic DNA for human ID in Africa?
As ASFM promotes evidence-based practice, forensic DNA for human identification in Africa will become a common primary method in our toolbox for establishing positive ID in relevant circumstances.
I also envisage a future, just like the mobile telecommunication revolution in Africa, in which forensic DNA tests will be generally affordable and applicable across the African spectrum without regard to socioeconomic or other class limitations. Furthermore, I see a future where forensic DNA for human ID in Africa will be structured within an operational framework that is governed by appropriate policies and regulations.
What motivates you?
I'm inspired by the prospect of making a positive difference and creating a better world by harnessing the power of our collective efforts through teamwork. I wake up every morning actively looking for any opportunities to add some value to our shared humanity.
Anything else you would like to add?
I believe in Africa. I also believe in building relationships and bridges within and across Africa as we work together to tackle challenges facing us in the same vehicle we share: the world.
Whether it be in forensic medicine and science or in any other profession or calling, we'll enjoy the ride more when we travel as friends!
