Award-winning Afrobeats artist Adekunle Gold has introduced a new program called 5 Star Care through his foundation, providing free health insurance to 1,000 people living with sickle cell disease in Nigeria. The initiative collaborates with the Lagos State Health Scheme Management, Sickle Cell Management Initiatives, and the Lagos State Ministry of Health to ensure patients receive routine medical care, emergency treatment, and ongoing support. This effort aims to ease the financial strain of managing sickle cell disease and improve access to quality healthcare.
Adekunle Gold, who has openly shared his personal experience with sickle cell disease in his popular song “5 Star,” explained that the program reflects his commitment to helping others facing similar challenges. He launched the initiative on World Sickle Cell Day, emphasizing that everyone deserves top-quality care. The 5 Star Care program offers fully funded health insurance to support sickle cell patients and their families, helping them navigate the physical and emotional difficulties of the condition.
Sickle cell disease remains a significant health issue in Africa, affecting 75% of the world’s 8 million cases. Nigeria has the highest number of cases, with approximately 150,000 babies born with the disease annually. Beyond physical symptoms, 35% of sickle cell patients experience depression, compared to only 4% of the general population.
To raise further awareness, the Adekunle Gold Foundation is working with New York University researchers to study how sickle cell disease impacts patients’ lives and explore how creative tools like music and storytelling can support medical care and mental health. The 5 Star Care program and the upcoming research partnership highlight the foundation’s dedication to improving the lives of Nigeria’s sickle cell community and increasing public understanding of the disease.
