By Karl Hofmann, PSI President and CEO
The PSI family is mourning the untimely passing of Godlove Ntaw, PSI’s Country Representative in Cameroon. Godlove had been suffering from cancer but had worked hard to remain engaged in his important work, which he continued right up until his final days.
Godlove served PSI in Cameroon, and in Senegal before that, but brought to us many years of experience in global development and humanitarian work previously with sister development organizations, such as Catholic Relief Services, in very challenging environments globally.
As a lifelong advocate of sexual and reproductive rights (SRHR) for women and young people, Godlove oversaw the Women’s Health Project which delivers legal, safe abortion, post-abortion care, and contraception to women in Cameroon. He instilled value in his team for innovation and made a significant impact by reducing the harm that stems from unsafe abortion and clearing pathways to contraception.
Godlove’s SRHR advocacy with the government of Cameroon will have long-lasting impact for its citizens. His peers knew him to be a successful negotiator, extremely respected and liked for his dedication to our work and collaborative manner in which he pursued it. Godlove’s unfailing commitment to good governance practices on the board of ACMS, PSI’s implementing arm in Cameroon, form an important part of his lasting legacy.
Gentle and a peacemaker, Godlove’s smile and laugh were contagious. He saw humor even in tough situations and would always bring his positive energy to challenges. He inspired and motivated so many staff members throughout his professional life. “Wonderful, kind, thoughtful and brave,” were words used to describe Godlove by his colleagues.
Godlove leaves behind his dear wife, Mary Ntaw, who he met while getting his MBA at the University of Maine. Mary, and the son and two daughters he adored, reside in Canada. He was with them when he passed.
We offer the Ntaw family our deepest condolences and love during this difficult time.