Professor Nkandu Luo is an internationally renowned scientist and seasoned politician. She has served in many consulting portfolios for various international organs, including UNDP, UNV, UNIFEMME, UN Women, Eastern, Central, Southern Health Community (ECSA), UNAIDS, Global Fund, and USAID. She has served under different advisory teams for various professional bodies such as the Regional Director for World Health Organization (WHO) and the Global Reference Group on HIV/AIDS for WHO, Global Programme on AIDS (GPA) and subsequently UNAIDS and European Clinical Trials Partnership (EDCTP). She has had extensive experience working in microbiology and immunology.

Prof. Luo has earned numerous awards throughout her career, including being awarded as the first female Professor in Zambia, Presidential award for her contribution to HIV and AIDS fight, Award of Excellence for her achievements in the medical profession and fight against HIV and AIDS, awarded by Society for Women and AIDS in Africa. A fellow of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh, Scotland, Prof. Luo is also a recipient of the Leadership Award for her leading role in the fight against HIV and AIDS in Africa.

Prof. Luo has been in Zambia politics for over 25 years. She has served in various elected positions as Member of Parliament and as Minister in six Ministries. Most recently, she was former President Edgar Lungu’s Running Mate in the August 12th Presidential Elections.

Prof. Luo holds a Certificate in Immunology, a Certificate in Epidemiology and Medical Statistics, and a Certificate in Flow Cytometry. Further, she has a Master’s degree in Microbiology, another Master’s degree in Immunology, a PhD in Immunology and Immunopathology of Infectious Diseases. She is pursuing post-doctorate research in Public Health with a focus on determinants of early marriage. She speaks fluent English and Russian, has been exposed to French, German and Japanese.

Prof. Luo was born on 21st December 1951, in Chinsali District of Northern Zambia. Her parents were both teachers. She is a proud mother of two sons and four grandchildren, who she adores dearly. She is close to her sisters and creates time for her extended family and friends.