From Ethiopia to the World: The Transformative Power of Soap in the Hands of Two Visionaries
In the rich tapestry of Ethiopia’s history, two figures stand out for their innovative use of a seemingly simple substance: soap. Aklilu Lemma, a pioneering scientist, and Heman Bekele, a young prodigy, have both harnessed the power of soap to address some of the world’s most pressing health challenges. Their stories, separated by decades but united by a shared heritage and a common goal, highlight the profound impact that ingenuity, nurtured in Ethiopia, can have on the global stage.
Aklilu Lemma: A Soap to Fight Disease
Born in 1935 in Addis Ababa, Aklilu Lemma grew up with a deep curiosity about the natural world. This curiosity led him to study biology and medicine, eventually culminating in a discovery that would revolutionize the fight against schistosomiasis, a debilitating parasitic disease affecting millions in developing countries.
Aklilu’s breakthrough came from observing a traditional Ethiopian practice. Women in rural areas used the berries of the Endod plant (Phytolacca dodecandra) as soap for washing clothes. He noticed that in the rivers where this practice was common, the freshwater snails that spread schistosomiasis were notably absent. Intrigued, Aklilu conducted research and found that the saponins in the Endod plant were effective in killing these snails, thus breaking the cycle of disease transmission.
This discovery was a game-changer. It provided a simple, cost-effective, and locally available method to combat a deadly disease. Aklilu’s work earned him international recognition and numerous awards, including the prestigious Right Livelihood Award. His legacy lives on as a testament to how traditional knowledge, coupled with scientific inquiry, can lead to groundbreaking solutions.
Heman Bekele: A Soap to Fight Cancer
Fast forward to the present day, and another Ethiopian, Heman Bekele, is making waves with his own soap-related innovation. Born in Addis Ababa and raised in the United States, Heman has always been driven by a passion for science. This passion, combined with a deep concern for public health, led him to create a soap that could one day treat and prevent multiple forms of skin cancer.
Heman’s inspiration came from observing the harsh realities of sun exposure. He recalled seeing laborers in Ethiopia working under the scorching sun without protection, a memory that stayed with him even after moving to the U.S. Determined to make a difference, Heman began researching skin cancer and the potential treatments available. He learned about imiquimod, a drug that shows promise in fighting various forms of skin cancer but is often expensive and inaccessible.
Heman’s solution was both simple and ingenious: a bar of soap infused with lipid-based nanoparticles carrying the drug. This would allow the therapeutic agent to linger on the skin even after washing, making it more accessible and affordable than traditional treatments. His invention won him the 3M Young Scientist Challenge, along with $25,000 to further his research.
The Road to TIME’s Kid of the Year 2024
Heman’s dedication to solving a global health issue did not go unnoticed. In October 2023, his innovative work earned him the prestigious title of 3M Young Scientist Challenge winner. But that was just the beginning. The recognition of his groundbreaking idea and his commitment to public health propelled him into the national spotlight.
Heman’s story of perseverance, creativity, and a desire to make a meaningful impact on the world caught the attention of TIME magazine. Each year, TIME selects a Kid of the Year who exemplifies extraordinary achievement and promise. Heman, with his vision of creating a soap that could revolutionize skin cancer treatment, fit the bill perfectly. His ability to think beyond the conventional and address a critical health issue with such a simple yet effective solution led TIME to name him Kid of the Year for 2024.
As Kid of the Year, Heman joins an elite group of young innovators who are making a difference in the world. His recognition by TIME magazine highlights not only his individual brilliance but also the broader potential of young people to contribute to global solutions. It’s a reminder that age is no barrier to innovation, and that the drive to help others can lead to remarkable achievements.
Ethiopia and the Power of Soap
Though separated by time and the specifics of their work, Aklilu Lemma and Heman Bekele share a common thread that ties them to their Ethiopian roots. Both saw potential in a simple bar of soap—a household item often taken for granted—and transformed it into a tool for public health. Their innovations are not just about soap; they are about harnessing local knowledge, addressing global health challenges, and improving lives.
Ethiopia, with its rich history and vibrant culture, has produced countless visionaries who have made significant contributions to the world. Aklilu and Heman are part of this legacy, demonstrating how a blend of traditional practices and modern science can yield solutions that resonate far beyond their origins.
In a world where health disparities are often stark, the stories of these two Ethiopians offer a powerful reminder: sometimes, the simplest ideas—rooted in everyday life—can have the most profound impact. Whether it’s using a plant-based soap to combat a parasitic disease or infusing a bar of soap with cancer-fighting agents, the ingenuity and determination of Aklilu Lemma and Heman Bekele continue to inspire, proving that great ideas can come from anywhere, and that they can change the world.
