Annual Report 2006
Given the vast size and
nature of our continent, the small numbers of health professionals,
in particular psychiatrists, the successful meetings each year at
the College Annual Conference have become a popular and important
feature. Significant sessions and topics have been presented at
each venue since 2002. The gathering of African-based colleagues
and expatriate colleagues as well as our many friends is a
highlight for those who have attended the meetings.
Plans for 2007 at the
Edinburgh meeting are a session on “Innovation in the management of
mental health: social-cultural and economic realities in Africa” as
well as an AGM of the Division.
Discussions in the past
year have centred round development and training projects and
assistance to the region. The AGM in Glasgow of African-based
psychiatrists and friends was opportunity of interchange of ideas.
At the meeting Professor David Ndetei was co-opted to the
Executive. Discussion included the overseas volunteer scheme of the
College highlighting the merits and the potential benefits to the
host communities. Processes to increase the momentum of research in
Africa were explored. The Division is seeking to network
internationally as well as to continue building bridges with other
African countries including those psychiatrists presently
practicing in the UK. On the initiative of Dr Olufemi Olugbile, the
first newsletter is due for distribution in January. This is yet
another attempt to improve the communication difficulties
experienced.
An important meeting for
Psychiatry in Africa is the Regional WPA Congress in March 2007 in
Nairobi. Division participation is planned as well as attendance by
officers of the Royal College and BIA is anticipated.
Future plans must focus
on recruitment of membership. The Division is a particularly small
one with just over 50 members in good standing at last count.
Evaluation of the situation indicates that there are potentially
more members who have been lost or not maintained their membership
or have moved from the region. It is essential to strengthen the
contact with members and to recruit previous members back. The
introduction of “affiliate membership” of the Division in the form
of associates from other divisions would include that of
psychiatrists from Africa now resident in the UK. This would
strengthen and support the division as well as mental health
services and should be actively followed up.
PROFESSOR TUVIAH ZABOW
December 2006