Nigerian music star Adekunle Gold has announced a new health-focused initiative aimed at supporting individuals living with sickle cell disease.
Award-winning Afrobeats singer, Adekunle Gold, has unveiled a new health initiative through his charity organization, the Adekunle Gold Foundation. The project, called 5 Star Care, will provide free comprehensive health insurance to 1,000 Nigerians living with sickle cell disease.
The program, launched in commemoration of World Sickle Cell Day, is being executed in partnership with the Lagos State Health Scheme Management (LASHMA), Sickle Cell Management Initiatives (SAMI), and the Lagos State Ministry of Health. Beneficiaries of the initiative will receive access to routine medical care, emergency services, and long-term healthcare support, aimed at easing the financial strain often associated with managing sickle cell disease in Nigeria.
Adekunle Gold, who has openly shared his personal battle with sickle cell through his music, notably on his song 5 Star, explained that the initiative is born from his firsthand experience living with the condition. “Every life deserves 5-star care. I know the pain, the prayers, and the strength it takes to smile through it,” the singer said while announcing the program.
The Adekunle Gold Foundation, which has been active in supporting the sickle cell community, noted that this new initiative is part of its broader mission to improve the lives of those affected by the disease. According to health statistics, Nigeria accounts for the majority of sickle cell cases globally, with around 150,000 babies born each year with the condition, and 75% of the world’s eight million cases found across Africa.
In addition to the health insurance scheme, the foundation is collaborating with researchers from New York University (NYU) on a study examining the impact of sickle cell disease on the mental health and lifestyle of carriers. The research will also explore how creative outlets like music and storytelling can serve as complementary support tools alongside medical care.
Those interested in benefiting from the 5 Star Care initiative can apply via the foundation’s website.
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