When lives are saved, systems are transformed, and the future of children’s surgery is rewritten, leaders like Dr. Mulenga Mulewa are behind the change.
As Head of the Department of Surgery at Arthur Davison Children’s Hospital (ADCH), Dr. Mulenga Mulewa has combined clinical expertise with strategic leadership to strengthen paediatric surgical services. Working alongside a committed multidisciplinary team, he has contributed to improved surgical outcomes, helping reduce child mortality and morbidity while advancing the quality and safety of care.
His commitment to creating safer systems of care is exemplified by his role in overseeing the KidsOR-sponsored operating theatre renovation, which helped deliver a modern, child-friendly surgical environment for the children of Zambia.
This same drive for excellence is reflected in his work establishing the first Cervical Cancer Screening Programme in Lundazi District, advancing surgical knowledge through research, and inspiring the next generation of healthcare professionals.
With more than 16 years of medical practice, Dr. Mulewa has built a career defined not only by surgical excellence but by a vision to strengthen healthcare systems and improve the lives of children across Zambia.
Asked why he chose paediatric surgery, his answer says it all: “There was a need to develop paediatric surgery practice in Zambia, and I love working with kids.”
For Dr. Mulewa, success isn’t measured in awards or titles — it’s measured in: 
A child surviving a difficult illness A family taking their child home healthy A safer surgical system that prevents suffering
Beyond the operating theatre, he’s a firm believer in lifelong learning and creativity — from bird watching, skating, and swimming to martial arts, writing, fitness training, and documentary production. And by his own admission, he’s an “undercover comedian” 
— proof that excellence, humility, and humour can absolutely coexist.
His advice to aspiring paediatric surgeons:
“Paediatric surgery is still a young specialty with enormous potential. If you want to make a lasting difference, improve children’s lives, and help shape the future of healthcare, this is a field where your contribution can truly matter. Explore all possibilities and make your unique mark.”
Today, we celebrate Dr. Mulenga Mulewa—a surgeon, innovator, researcher, mentor, leader, and lifelong learner whose work continues to transform paediatric surgery and inspire others to dream bigger and serve better.
Leave a message in the comments and help us honour his remarkable contribution to children’s healthcare.