LIBE: What is the point of this first African Pediatric Congress?
Prof Simon Jonas Ategbo : The essential objective of this first African pediatric congress is to pool the efforts of the different African pediatric societies. In French-speaking black Africa, we already have an association bringing together all the pediatric societies, and the same goes for the Maghreb countries. We share similar themes and face common problems. It is therefore necessary to harmonize our practices and approaches to guarantee the well-being of African children.
This South-South cooperation initiative is extremely promising. We are delighted that Morocco has welcomed the birth of this ambitious project. Certainly, our resources differ, but our intelligence is there, and this is what we seek to pool in order to improve the living and health conditions of African children. It should also be noted that trade between the Maghreb and sub-Saharan Africa is not new.
Exchanges have existed for a long time, but why is the birth of this initiative only happening now?
It’s never too late to do well. Opportunities depend on people and circumstances. Thanks to the foresight of Dr Afif My Saïd, whom I warmly salute, and to the commitment of the other presidents of this congress, this initiative was able to see the light of day. It is now up to our generation to believe in this project and give it full support.
What themes particularly interested you during this congress?
-The topics covered cover a wide range, from the perinatal period to childhood. We discussed many relevant pathologies. This congress represents a first step, but it opens the way to progressive specialization. Ultimately, each country or entity will be able to become a leader in specific areas.
A word on pediatrics in Gabon?
As everywhere else, pediatrics in Gabon is influenced by ecological and environmental factors. Infectious pathologies, notably malaria, occupy a predominant place, unlike other regions such as the Maghreb where this problem is absent.
However, we share common challenges, such as tuberculosis, diarrhea and other infectious diseases. The issue of vaccination also remains a major issue, even if the level of progress varies from one country to another. These disparities show the importance of pooling experiences and efforts to improve our collective actions.
Comments collected by Alain Bouithy
