Janet Ogundepo
A Nigerian physiotherapist and academic based in South Africa, Prof Ushotanefe Useh, has been honoured with the 2026 World Physiotherapy Africa Region Award in recognition of his outstanding contributions to physiotherapy education, research, public health, and professional development across Africa.
The award was presented during the World Physiotherapy Africa Region Conference held on June 5–6, 2026, in Kigali, Rwanda.
In a letter conveying the decision, the World Physiotherapy Africa Region said Useh was nominated by the South African Society of Physiotherapy and subsequently recommended by the Africa Region Awards Committee after a thorough review of his achievements.
The recommendation was later approved by the Africa Region Executive Committee.
“On behalf of the Africa Region Executive Committee, I would like to express our heartfelt congratulations on your achievements,” the letter signed by Birgit Mueller-Winkler, Regional Administrator and World Physiotherapy Membership Manager, stated.
The award is one of the highest recognitions bestowed by the regional body on physiotherapists who have made exceptional contributions to the advancement of the profession and healthcare delivery across the continent.
Reacting to the honour, colleagues and professional bodies described Useh as one of Africa’s leading physiotherapy scholars whose work has significantly influenced clinical practice, research, education and public health.
In a congratulatory message posted on its official Facebook page, the South African Society of Physiotherapy said the award recognised Useh’s “outstanding contribution to physiotherapy, higher education, research and public health across Africa.”
The society noted that over a career spanning more than four decades, Useh has distinguished himself as a clinician, educator, researcher, mentor and professional leader.
“Over a career spanning more than four decades, Useh has served as a clinician, educator, researcher, mentor and leader, helping shape the profession through his commitment to excellence, knowledge generation and the development of future healthcare professionals.
“Today, we celebrate not only this well-deserved recognition, but also the lasting impact of a career dedicated to advancing physiotherapy and improving lives across our continent,” the statement said.
The award further highlights the growing influence of African physiotherapists in strengthening healthcare systems through rehabilitation services, education, research and policy advocacy.
The World Physiotherapy Africa Region, which comprises 27 member countries, works to strengthen physiotherapy services, education and professional collaboration across the continent.
Its strategic priorities include improving communication among member organisations, fostering regional partnerships, supporting physiotherapy educators, promoting collaborative research and grant-funded projects, and expanding membership across Africa.
Founded in 1951, World Physiotherapy is the global voice of the physiotherapy profession. The organisation represents more than 600,000 physiotherapists worldwide through its 129 member organisations spread across five regions.
For Nigeria and the wider African physiotherapy community, Useh’s recognition serves as an affirmation of the critical role of physiotherapy in modern healthcare and the impact of African professionals in advancing rehabilitation science and public health on the global stage.
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