The Nairobi Declaration of the Second African Neurophysiological Society Conference

Shaping the Future of Neurophysiology and Epilepsy in Africa

Following a three-day conference in Nairobi, Kenya, we, the Second African Neurophysiological Society (ANS) Conference participants, convened with a deep sense of purpose and shared understanding; recognizing the profound significance of this gathering, aimed to advance the field of neurophysiology, focusing on enhancing brain health and addressing the pressing challenge of epilepsy in Africa; in which endeavor, we draw inspiration from the Intersectoral Global Action Plan (IGAP) ?on Epilepsy and other Neurological Disorders; and aligning ourselves with the African Union's visionary goals encapsulated in Agenda 2063; with our commitment to extend beyond this conference to shape the future of brain health and neurological well-being for our continent and beyond; on this day September 23, 2023, we hereby declare the following:

1. Commitment to Collaboration: We pledge to foster collaboration among researchers, clinicians, policymakers, and stakeholders within the field of neurophysiology to collectively address the challenges posed by neurological disorders, particularly epilepsy, on the African continent.
2. Raise Awareness: We acknowledge the importance of raising public and professional awareness about neurological disorders, focusing on epilepsy, to reduce stigma and discrimination and encourage early diagnosis and treatment.
3. Capacity Building: We emphasize the need for capacity building in neurophysiology education and practice across Africa, including training and developing a skilled healthcare workforce dedicated to effectively managing neurological disorders.
4. Research and Innovation: We recognize the pivotal role of research and innovation in advancing our understanding of neurophysiology and developing innovative solutions for diagnosing, treating, and preventing neurological disorders.
5. Quality of Care: We commit to improving the quality of care and support services for individuals with epilepsy in Africa, ensuring they can access timely and effective treatment options.
6. Healthcare Infrastructure: We advocate for increased investment in healthcare infrastructure to better serve the needs of individuals with neurological disorders, including providing essential diagnostic tools and treatment facilities.
7. Global Partnerships: We endorse establishing and strengthening international partnerships and collaborations to facilitate knowledge exchange, resource sharing, and research efforts to tackle neurological disorders.
8. Education and Public Engagement: We stress the importance of educational programs and public engagement initiatives to increase understanding and knowledge about neurophysiology and epilepsy among healthcare professionals, patients, and the general public.
9. Policy Advocacy: We commit to advocating for policies, funding and guidelines that promote and facilitate the early diagnosis, treatment, and support of individuals with neurological disorders, with a specific focus on epilepsy.
10. Continued Commitment: We affirm our continued commitment to the objectives and principles of the African Neurophysiological Society and pledge to work tirelessly toward advancing the field of neurophysiology and improving the lives of those affected by neurological disorders in Africa.

In witness thereof, we hereby adopt this declaration at the Second African Neurophysiological Society Conference in Nairobi, Kenya, with a shared determination to shape the future of neurophysiology and epilepsy care in Africa to better our society and our continent.

AfriCan 2023 Conference participants:

Asha Sebit Abdallah

Athanas Kipkirui Langat

Augustine Waswa

Bright M Bwalya

Caroline Jepkosgei

Cecilia Kamundia

Centinary Gervase

Charles M. Wainaina

Claudine Mbombo

Daniel Walbert

David Amedonu

Dr Jules Nshimiyimana

Dr. Abena Osei-lah

Dr. Peter Muthinji

Dr. Sutapa Biswas

Edwin Onyoni

Egbon Godwin

Eric Kariuki Ng'ang'a

Erickson Kilonzo

Eugene Mshamba

Fred Kiserem

Geoffrey Wanyonyi

George Mwangi Wambugu

Isiaka Amoo

Jemimah Muoka

Josephine Ireri

Kuye Kolawole Oluwaseun Felix

Kuye Oluyomi Adedoja

Lucien Kilonda

Lydia W. Kiura

Margaret Woki Gachie

Martin Mureithi

Maximilla Nakeda

Murtala Bankole Olusola

Nelly Ronoh

Niwagaba Innocent

Oscar Odhiambo

Patrick Gashema

Prof. Alfred K. Njamnshi

Rose Irene Waithera

Roselyne Kwamboka

Ruth Wanjiru Mungai

Sabrina Galloway

Samson Okal

Sharon Mbugua

Shem Ochieng

Sylvia Wanjeri Njoroge

Taylor Beacham

Teguo Djoyum

Tom Sironka

Twebaze Rosett

Vallent Rachel Adhiambo

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