Past Conferences
A journey through AFCO's rich history of continental gatherings — where optometric leaders, practitioners, and partners unite to advance eye health across Africa.
Celebrating Continental Unity
Since 2001, AFCO has brought together optometrists from across Africa for Annual General Meetings and scientific conferences. These gatherings have been pivotal in shaping the profession, fostering collaboration, and advancing eye health.
AFCO Annual General Meeting
Joint conference with the Nigerian Optometric Association (NOA). Featured the commissioning of the AFCO Regional Secretariat and high-level policy dialogues on integrating optometry into primary healthcare.
AFCO Annual General Meeting
Constitutional review and adoption of new governance structures. Strengthened regional coordination frameworks.
AFCO Annual General Meeting
Dr. Enwantang Ayoukutang elected as President. Focus on Francophone engagement and expansion into Central Africa.
AFCO Annual General Meeting
Mr. Richard Maveneka elected President. Focus on regional integration and expanding membership in Southern Africa.
AFCO Annual General Meeting
Landmark conference where the new AFCO constitution was adopted, establishing the AFCO Foundation, subcommittees, and fellowship programs.
AFCO Annual General Meeting
Mr. Dralega Anguo elected President. Focus on Lusophone African engagement and expanding membership.
AFCO Annual General Meeting
Dr. Uduak Udom elected President. Strengthened ties with the World Council of Optometry and international partners.
AFCO Annual General Meeting
After cancellation of the Abidjan conference due to civil unrest, the AGM successfully convened in Lomé, strengthening Francophone engagement.
First AFCO Annual General Meeting
Inaugural AGM establishing the tradition of continental gatherings for strategic planning, fellowship, and professional development.
AFCO Inauguration
Formal inauguration of the African Council of Optometry during the Nigerian Optometric Association General Delegates Meeting. Prof. D. Sheni elected as first President.
Founding Conference
AFCO was proposed at the IACLE conference, bringing together seven founding nations: Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Tanzania, Togo, and South Africa.
By the Numbers
28+
Years of Conferences
15+
Host Countries
2,000+
Delegates Reached
30+
Scientific Sessions
Conference Gallery
Moments from past AFCO gatherings across the continent — celebrating unity, learning, and progress.
Abuja 2024
October 2024Historic joint AFCO-NOA conference with the commissioning of the AFCO Regional Secretariat in Abuja, Nigeria.
Dar es Salaam 2018
August 2018Landmark conference where the new AFCO constitution was adopted, establishing subcommittees and fellowship programs.
Accra 2001
July 2001The first AFCO Annual General Meeting, establishing the tradition of continental gatherings for strategic planning and fellowship.
Durban 1996
November 1996The founding conference where AFCO was proposed at the IACLE conference, bringing together seven founding nations.
Yaoundé 2022
September 2022Dr. Enwantang Ayoukutang elected President. Focus on Francophone engagement and Central African expansion.
Victoria Falls 2019
October 2019Mr. Richard Maveneka elected President. Focus on regional integration and Southern African expansion.
Upcoming Conference
AFCO-NOA 2026
Join us for the landmark joint conference hosting the 49th NOA Annual Scientific Conference and AFCO AGM. Be part of history as we commission the AFCO Regional Secretariat in Abuja.
Register Interest →