Welcome. I'm Dr. Zara Modibbo — physician, healthtech entrepreneur, and advocate for gender equity in healthcare. My work spans Sub-Saharan Africa and the MENA region, where I lead bold initiatives at the intersection of technology, women's health, and system-level transformation. Through digital innovation, strategic partnerships, and a deep commitment to mentorship, I strive to reimagine how healthcare is delivered — building a future where women everywhere can access safe, dignified, and reliable care.
With over two decades of experience spanning clinical practice, laboratory medicine, and start-up advisory, Dr. Modibbo is dedicated to shaping the future of healthcare in Sub-Saharan Africa and MENA.
Through her work at Débbo Africa, Dr. Modibbo is driving initiatives that ensure every African woman has access to safe, reliable, and tech-enabled healthcare solutions. Explore her journey, expertise, and contributions to global health.
The future of global health depends on how we serve women—yet over 1 billion women worldwide still lack access to essential healthcare. I'm committed to building the systems, technologies, and leadership that will change that—starting in Africa and the MENA region.
Dr. Zara Modibbo
Dr. Zara Modibbo is a trailblazer in healthcare with a career spanning over 20 years. She is the Co-founder and Managing Partner of Débbo, a healthcare innovation company dedicated to improving women's access to diagnostic services and tech-enabled health solutions.
Read MoreZara is an excellent professional who is doing brilliant work in the fields of Women's Health, Health Tech, and Mental Health. Her work at Debbo Africa is truly inspiring and stands as a testament to the transformative impact of leveraging expertise and innovation to create meaningful societal change.
Isang Awang
Head of Advocacy, Global Parenting Initiative, Oxford University
Dr Zara consistently demonstrates a rare combination of professionalism, empathy, and deep commitment to the growth of others that sets her apart from her peers.
Dr Aisha Nabila Wanka
Co-founder Débbo Africa
I have worked with Dr Zara across two businesses and She is exceptional in her approach to work and life; driven by her passion for the work and people; she is all about delivering value in excellence.
Francis Osifo
Ex YC Ex Tech Stars, Co-Founder Rayda
Dr. Zara Modibbo is a visionary and trailblazing medical doctor whose passion and dedication inspire me deeply. She is empowering women across Africa, creating opportunities, and leaving an indelible mark. I'm excited to see how her journey continues to unfold
Prof. Yahya Mohammed
AFENET/UDUTH
Dr. Zara is deeply passionate and strongly focused on spreading the good in every opportunity.
Prof. Mohammed Manga
Provost, Gombe State University & Federal Teaching Hospital
Dr. Zara's leadership has been truly transformative, shaping my career and character. Working with her has been a privilege—her guidance, wisdom, and mentorship have propelled me beyond my expectations. I am forever grateful.
Dr. Adeola Foluso Adeleye
House Lead, Simaril Supported Living, Winnipeg, MB, Canada.
Zara Modibbo is an amazing soul, with a deep understanding of women's health, is a passionate advocate dedicated to improving healthcare in Africa, especially Nigeria. Her commitment to accessible, women-centered solutions has made a lasting impact on countless lives.
Aameenah Yunus-Ali
Founder, Timeless Soul Inc.
Dr. Zara is an exceptional and particularly empathetic leader. She always has the right words to motivate people around her in any setting.
Anjola Ayo-Lawal
Fund Servicing Analyst, JPMorgan Chase
I wouldn't speak about my career trajectory without mentioning the 'Dr. Zee effect.' She stands for the '3 Hs': hard work, honesty, and humanity before anything else
Chinenye Akpulu
DPhil Candidate, University of Oxford
Zara is a highly skilled professional with a proven track record. Her commitment to sharing knowledge and delivering exceptional client service is truly commendable.
Adenike Adeyemi
Executive Director Fate Foundation
How I Ended Up in Queen’s College, Lagos – A Story of Dreams, Determination, and a Mother’s Love
It was 1992. My father had passed just a few months before. Life had shifted in ways I couldn’t fully understand, but one thing remained constant—our ritual of watching NTA Newsline. The legendary Frank Olize had a way of making stories come alive, but that night, something else held me spellbound.
Read MoreIntegrity Over Efficiency
A few weeks ago, I brought on a new assistant. With so much on my plate, I needed to offload tasks so I could concentrate on what truly mattered. From day one, she hit the ground running. Tasks that had been lingering were finally checked off— If you're in Nigeria, you know some of the kind of tasks I’m talking about—like sorting out your mysteriously suspended NIN or getting a new SIM because yours refuses to work when you are in Ikoyi or approaching Lekki Toll gate. But let’s not digress.
Read MoreCelebrating Progress and Shaping the Future of Women's Health in Africa
The power of women supporting each other has always been profound. Mia Farrow once said, "Women in Africa... generally, a lot needs to be done for women. Women are not being educated."
Read More