Emmanuel Ikubese, the Nigerian model and actor, says he will release a film to raise awareness of sickle cell disease.
In an interview with TheCable Lifestyle, he expressed concern that there is still inadequate medical for sickle cell patients care.
Ikubese shared that his motivation for the project stems from the tragic loss of his cousin to sickle cell disease.
“I lost a cousin of mine to sickle cell. It was due to ignorance,” the actor said.
“He needed a blood transfusion, but the nurses were treating him poorly. Just before they finally got the blood, he passed away.”
Driven by a desire to make an impact, the actor stated that he founded Mzigo, an awareness and support initiative for sickle cell patients.
“I felt compelled to use my voice to raise awareness and inspire hope,” he said.
He also highlighted a pivotal aspect of the Mzigo campaign, a pan-African film slated for release in September 2024.
The film features a stellar cast, including Angel Unigwe, Fred Amata, and Tanzanian superstar Elizabeth Michael.
Ikubese said the film is part of his broader effort, through Mzigo, to promote screening for newborns and improve access to healthcare.
He further stated that he recently collaborated with the Sickle Cell Advocacy Management Institute (SAMI) to organise the “Run4AWarrior” challenge, intending to raise funds for health insurance (HMO coverage) for low-income sickle cell patients.
“Our goal was to raise awareness and funds to provide HMO coverage for those in low-income areas living with sickle cell.,” he added.
In 2014, Ikubese won the Mr. Nigeria pageant and secured the first runner-up spot at Mr. World.
He gained recognition as an actor for his role in the MTV series ‘Shuga’.
In 2019, Ikubese made his directorial debut with the Ugandan series ‘Kyaddala’.
He has since received multiple awards, including Peace Personality of the Year at the 2015 Peace Achievers Awards.
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