Miriam Were, a Kenyan medical worker who recently won the inaugural Hideyo Noguchi Africa Award, has said Japan's decision to establish the prize is a step forward in the fight against disease on the world's poorest continent.

Were, 68, will leave for Japan later this month to receive the prize, along with her British counterpart, Brian Greenwood, for her work in medical research. Each winner will receive ¥100 million provided by the Japanese government and other donors.

According to Japanese officials, Were won the award for her efforts to bring basic medical care and health rights to women and children in poor villages in east Africa. As chairwoman of the National Aids Control Council, she has also been instrumental in the fight against HIV/AIDS.