Join hosts Shelly-Ann Dakarai and Mbozu Sipalo as they celebrate two incredible years of the Global Neonatal Podcast! Dive into their journey of global connections, where starting small, embracing teamwork, and learning from diverse neonatal health heroes have been key. A heartfelt thank you to our amazing listeners—your support fuels our passion! We're excited to continue this journey and bring you more inspiring stories from neonatal change makers in 2026.

In this episode, Mbozu and Shelly-Ann are joined by Jean Musonda-Chintende, a critical care nurse and national trainer in advanced newborn care with the Ministry of Health in Zambia. Jean shares her decade-long journey in neonatal intensive care and her leadership in building and mentoring neonatal units across the country.

She discusses the process of setting up special care baby units in hospitals that previously lacked neonatal services, including assessing facility readiness, training staff, and ensuring standardized care through continued mentorship. Jean highlights partnerships with organizations such as UNICEF and Clinton Health Access Initiative that support equipment and training efforts.

The conversation also touches on the challenges of workforce retention, the importance of continuous education for nurses, and the power of recognition in maintaining morale. Jean reflects on her role in Zambia’s historic 2017 conjoined twins separation, how that experience shaped her approach to critical care, and her personal mission to reduce neonatal mortality through training and compassion.

A deeply practical conversation about scaling neonatal care in resource-limited settings and the dedication it takes to make lasting change.

In this episode, Dr. Ruth Grace Babirekoba discusses the transformative efforts in newborn care in Uganda, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among healthcare professionals. She shares insights on the National Surfactant Administration Protocol and her personal journey in maternal and newborn health, highlighting the significance of mentorship and self-care for future leaders in healthcare.