Dr. Mabel A. Charles-Davies, Associate Professor in the Endocrine Unit of the Department of Chemical Pathology, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan joined other leaders to successfully host, the 3rd EgyLab Forum & 7th African Federation of Clinical Chemistry (AFCC) Regional Congress.
Dr. Mabel Charles-Davies is currently serving as the President of the African Federation of Clinical Chemistry (AFCC).
The event was organized by the Laboratory Quality and Accreditation Committee of the Supreme Council of University Hospitals in collaboration with the Africa Federation of Clinical Chemistry (AFCC) and was held at the Sofitel El Gazira Hotel in Cairo, Egypt, from February 28th to February 29th, 2024.
The theme of the congress was “Excellence in Laboratory Practice: The Future of Africa.” The event focused on various scientific disciplines including clinical chemistry, microbiology, clinical pathology, and diagnostic haematology. Discussions at the event also revolved around newly advanced interventions and technology such as artificial intelligence and telemedicine. Attendees benefited from engaging seminars, insightful speeches, and interactive workshops. Indeed, the congress was a platform for knowledge exchange and advancement in laboratory practices within the African context.
We share the full script of Dr. Charle-Davies’ address at the congress for your reading pleasure.
FULL SCRIPT OF DR. MABEL A. CHARLES-DAVIES’ ADDRESS AS THE AFCC PRESIDENT
It is with great pleasure that I welcome you all to the 7th AFCC Congress and 3rd Egylabs Forum, the EYPLABS FORUM AFCC that holds in Cairo, the beautiful city and capital of Egypt. This Congress is hosted by the Egyptian Association of Health Care Quality and Patient Safety in partnership with the African Federation of Clinical Chemistry. I am indeed delighted to welcome very specially, the President of the IFCC, Prof. Tomris Ozben as well as Past Presidents of the IFCC, Prof. Khosrow Adeli and Prof. Maurizio Ferrari. I appreciate the presence of all the invited Speakers of global repute particularly those of the IFCC Committees. Your contribution to this conference will be memorable and pave the way to excellence in laboratory practice.
The AFCC is a regional federation of the IFCC, and members are defined by geographic location. Thus, fifteen national societies (13 full and 2 affiliate) constitute the membership of the federation. The AFCC has come of age, and we celebrate its 15 years of existence (2009-2024). I must mention the enormous contribution and passion of Prof. Jocelyn Hicks and Prof. Donald Young (IFCC Past Presidents) of blessed memory for representing the IFCC and laying the right foundation, for which we are grateful. The IFCC President at the time, Dr. Graham Beastall and subsequent Presidents ensured mentorship and continued improvement of laboratory quality on the continent. The encouragement given to the young scientists by way of professional exchange programmes, trainings and grant awards has enhanced collaboration and cooperation among African societies as well as with those in other regions. I thank the President of the AFCC Young Scientists, Dr. Ashlin Rampul for putting together a forum that will feature members from different countries within Africa at this Congress for the first time. In advertising this Congress on his linked in page, he shared: “Looking forward to listening to African speakers, our continent is great”.
The theme of this Conference, “Excellence in Laboratory Practice: the future of Africa” is exciting. Interesting sessions have been organised to walk the talk. Experts in Egypt and across Africa will speak to cutting-edge science and identify weaknesses as we engage each other on specific issues of laboratory accreditation along with stakeholders within the region. A round table to discuss the future of laboratory medicine has been put in place, within our space to sharpen approaches and strategies in Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine for overall benefit. The efforts of the Chair of the Conference Organising Committee, Prof. Rajiv Erasmus and Local Organising Committee, Prof. Rania Sharkawry, the AFCC Council and Partnering Organisations are well appreciated.
I wish you a productive and successful Congress as you enjoy the specially packaged scientific sessions and exhibitions for interaction and lasting relationships as well as the relics of ancient and modern Egyptian civilization, rich culture and hospitality.
Dr. Mabel A. Charles-Davies
President, AFCC
Department of Chemical Pathology, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan
Below are screenshots of the event schedule:
