Caring Leadership: Claude’s Dedication to CURE Niger Hospital
From Togo to Ivory Coast
In the heart of Togo, a young boy grew up with dreams not of his own but of those held by his mother. As the second youngest in a large family, Claude felt the weight of her aspirations for him to become a doctor. Out of deep love and respect for her, Claude embarked on a journey into medicine. His passion for learning knew no bounds, propelling him toward opportunities that would shape his future, including his role as Executive Director at CURE Niger. It was this relentless drive that earned him a scholarship, allowing him to travel to Ivory Coast. “My passion for learning drove me to simultaneously undertake several studies, as I understood that education was the key to my personal growth,” Claude reflects. His thirst for knowledge led him to explore additional fields, delving into Parasitology, Dermatology, and Public Health. Each new specialization broadened his understanding and equipped him with the skills to make a significant impact on the lives of his patients.
Management – The True Passion
During this period of studies in Ivory Coast, he met a Congolese missionary who had founded and now ran a local health center. “I became deeply involved (in the health center), and when she fell ill, she entrusted me with the responsibility of managing the hospital she had started. Although I accepted, I quickly realized I lacked the necessary management skills. I had a background in public health, but managing a healthcare facility required a different skill set, particularly in health economics and management.” Acknowledging his limitations, Claude pursued an Executive MBA. “Through this experience, I discovered that management was my true passion, and from that point onward, I dedicated all my effort and energy to mastering it.”
This is the passion that would later lead him on a journey across the diverse landscapes of Africa. From Ivory Coast to Cameroon. From the serene fields of Burkina Faso to Togo. And now, from the vibrant communities of Mali to Niger. In every country he worked, Claude forged partnerships with local representatives and NGOs, rallying them around a shared vision of hope and healing. As he navigated the challenges of hospital management, Claude’s resolve only grew stronger. “My educational background has allowed me to bridge worlds. As a doctor, I grasp the medical perspective and its implications. Additionally, my studies in management equip me to address leadership and financial matters effectively.”
Journey With a Purpose
When the opportunity arose to step into the role of Executive Director of CURE Niger, Claude responded. CURE Niger’s mission resonated with him: providing life-changing surgery and God-centered care to children living with treatable disabilities. Now as the Executive Director, Claude views his role not merely as a professional responsibility but as a calling to exemplify the compassion God expects from each of us. He believes that healing and compassion are connected, and he strives to ensure that his work reflects God’s love.
Whether managing the hospital’s needs or leading teams, Claude is deeply dedicated to serving others with integrity and compassion. Reflecting on his journey, Claude expresses profound gratitude for the experiences that have shaped his path. “I often joke that I take care of both people and organizations,” he says. For Claude, his journey has been about much more than professional success—it’s about fulfilling his purpose in a way that honors his faith, his family, and the many people he is called to serve.
