About AFPNA
History of AFPNA
Our History...
A Legacy of Advancing Paediatric Kidney Care Across Africa
The African Paediatric Nephrology Association (AFPNA) was established to unite healthcare professionals dedicated to improving the prevention, diagnosis and management of kidney diseases in children throughout Africa.
From its beginnings as a small network of committed paediatric nephrologists, AFPNA has grown into a continent-wide professional association that promotes excellence in clinical care, education, research, advocacy and collaboration. Today, the Association brings together specialists from every region of Africa, working collectively to improve outcomes for children with kidney disease.
Honouring Our Pioneers
The foundations of paediatric nephrology in Africa were built by a remarkable group of clinicians, educators and researchers whose vision and dedication established many of the continent’s first paediatric nephrology services and training programmes.
These pioneers include:
- Prof M. Adhikari
- Prof R. Bhimma
- Dr J. Cronje
- Dr D. Hahn
- Prof U. Kala
- Dr K. Meyers
- Prof L. Milner
- Prof P. Thomson
- Prof J. Wiggelinkhuizen
Many of these individuals founded specialist units, led university departments, developed research programmes, trained future generations of paediatric nephrologists and helped establish paediatric nephrology as a recognised subspecialty across Africa. Their leadership laid the foundation upon which AFPNA continues to build today.
Building a Pan-African Community
As paediatric nephrology services expanded across the continent, so too did the need for stronger collaboration between clinicians, researchers and educators.
AFPNA evolved into a truly pan-African organisation, welcoming members from North, West, East, Central and Southern Africa. The Association has fostered partnerships between national and regional paediatric nephrology societies, creating opportunities for shared learning, mentorship and professional development across diverse healthcare settings.
The Association also strengthened collaboration with colleagues from Francophone Africa through partnerships with regional networks, further broadening its reach and promoting knowledge exchange across linguistic and geographic boundaries.
Education at the Heart of Our Mission
Education has always been one of AFPNA’s defining priorities.
Over the years, the Association has organised numerous educational initiatives, including:
- Teaching courses
- Scientific workshops
- Continuing Medical Education (CME) programmes
- Regional training meetings
- Masterclasses
- Hybrid educational conferences
- Hands-on clinical training sessions
These programmes have provided invaluable opportunities for healthcare professionals throughout Africa to develop specialist knowledge, exchange clinical experience and improve the care of children living with kidney disease.
Strengthening International Partnerships
AFPNA has developed strong collaborative relationships with leading international organisations, particularly the International Pediatric Nephrology Association (IPNA).
Through these partnerships, the Association has expanded access to expert faculty, educational resources, research collaboration and specialist training. Joint teaching courses, scientific meetings and educational programmes have helped strengthen paediatric nephrology capacity across Africa while fostering lasting international professional relationships.
Advancing Research and Innovation
Research has become an increasingly important pillar of AFPNA’s work.
The Association actively promotes collaborative research, scientific publication, clinical guideline development and the sharing of best practices. Through conferences, workshops and professional networks, AFPNA encourages innovation and supports research that addresses the unique challenges of paediatric kidney disease across Africa.
By bringing together clinicians and researchers from diverse healthcare environments, AFPNA continues to contribute to a growing body of African-led research that informs clinical practice and improves patient care.
Supporting the Next Generation
Recognising that the future of paediatric nephrology depends on developing skilled professionals, AFPNA places great emphasis on mentoring early-career clinicians.
The Association encourages trainee participation in scientific meetings, educational programmes, research collaborations and leadership opportunities, helping to cultivate the next generation of African paediatric nephrologists.
Looking Ahead
Today, AFPNA stands as the leading professional organisation dedicated to paediatric nephrology in Africa.
The Association remains committed to improving kidney health for every child across the continent through education, research, advocacy, collaboration and clinical excellence.
As new challenges emerge and healthcare continues to evolve, AFPNA will continue to strengthen partnerships, support innovation and empower healthcare professionals to provide the highest standard of care for children with kidney disease throughout Africa.
Together, we are building a healthier future for Africa’s children.
Our Journey
AFPNA Timeline
A journey of vision, collaboration and growth for children's kidney health across Africa.
1998 – The Vision Begins
The idea of establishing an African Paediatric Nephrology Association was born during the 11th IPNA Congress in London.
This vision was championed by:
- Prof. Bahia Moustapha (Egypt)
- Prof. Felicia Eke (Nigeria)
- Prof. Rajendra Bhimma (South Africa)
- Dr. Amani Asfour (Egypt)
1999 – AFPNA is Founded
The African Paediatric Nephrology Association (AFPNA) was officially established with the support of Prof. Ira Greifer, General Secretary of IPNA.
Founding members represented:
- Cameroon
- Egypt
- Libya
- Mali
- Nigeria
- South Africa
To encourage participation across the continent, AFPNA offered free membership registration during its first five years.
2000 – A Historic Milestone
Africa became the final continent to join the International Pediatric Nephrology Association (IPNA).
The 1st AFPNA Congress was held in Egypt, marking the beginning of a new era of continental collaboration.
2002 – 2nd AFPNA Congress
Port Harcourt, Nigeria
2006 – 3rd AFPNA Congress
South Africa
2008 – Joint AFRAN / AFPNA Congress
Nairobi, Kenya
2013 – Joint AFRAN / AFPNA Congress
Accra, Ghana
2016 – Joint AFRAN / AFPNA Congress
Yaoundé, Cameroon
2019 – Joint AFRAN / AFPNA Congress
Mombasa, Kenya
2021 – Joint AFRAN / AFPNA Congress
Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
This historical summary was compiled and written by Prof. Hesham Safouh, 4th President of the African Paediatric Nephrology Association (AFPNA).