Message from the CAANS President

Dear Colleagues, Distinguished Guests and Friends,

It is with great pleasure and honor that I welcome you to the 6th Continental Association of African Neurosurgical Societies (CAANS) Congress, taking place in the magnificent Red City of Marrakech, Morocco, from 13 to 17 October 2026. This congress is jointly organized with the 34th Congress of the Moroccan Society of Neurosurgery and is preceded by the 14th WFNS Rabat Training Center Course, a perfect occasion to celebrate the 25th silver jubilee of the WFNS RT Center.

This international meeting is organized under the inspiring motto: “Africa: Cradle of Humanity, Heart of Global Neurosurgery.”

This theme reflects both our origins and our aspirations. Africa, the cradle of humankind, has always been a source of resilience and innovation. Today, Africa is aspiring to catch up with the progress of neurosurgery worldwide and become a dynamic contributor to the advancement of global neurosurgery.

Over the past decades, African neurosurgery has undergone a remarkable transformation. From a limited number of neurosurgical centers and specialists in many countries, we have witnessed the emergence of vibrant national societies, structured residency programs, regional training centers, international partnerships, and a growing generation of highly skilled neurosurgeons. The expansion of pediatric neurosurgery, neuro-oncology, vascular neurosurgery, spine surgery, skull base surgery, and functional neurosurgery across the continent illustrates the extraordinary progress that has been achieved.

African neurosurgeons have increasingly contributed to scientific literature, multicenter collaborations, global health initiatives, and international leadership. Training programs supported by CAANS, the World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies, and numerous academic institutions have helped strengthen local capacities while fostering a spirit of continental solidarity. Today, Africa is not merely participating in global neurosurgery—it is helping shape its future.

Yet, our journey is far from complete. Significant disparities in access to neurosurgical care remain across our continent. Millions of Africans still lack timely access to essential neurosurgical services, mainly in sub-Saharan Africa. This challenge calls upon us to continue innovating, collaborating, and advocating for equitable neurosurgical care for all, and we are convinced that continuing to provide quality training and excellent education for young African neurosurgeons is essential to bridge the gap in neurosurgery in sub-Saharan Africa.

The Marrakech Congress provides a unique platform to celebrate our achievements, exchange knowledge, strengthen friendships, and build new partnerships. It brings together experienced leaders, young neurosurgeons, researchers, trainees, nurses, allied professionals, and industry partners from Africa and around the world. Together, we will explore the latest scientific advances while addressing the unique challenges and opportunities facing neurosurgery in Africa.

As we gather in this historic city—where African, Arab, Mediterranean, and global cultures meet—we reaffirm our commitment to excellence, education, innovation, and service to our patients. Let this congress inspire us to continue building a stronger and more connected African neurosurgical community that contributes meaningfully to global neurosurgery.

I warmly welcome you to Marrakech and wish you a stimulating, productive, and memorable congress.