Togo: Fertility in Africa: what are the challenges for the country’s next two years at the helm of GIERAF?
Recently, Lomé hosted the 9th congress of the Inter-African Group for Study, Research, and Application on Fertility (GIERAF). At the conclusion of this event, Togo took over the leadership of the organization for a two-year term, with Dr. Kolani Jean Claude succeeding Coulibaly Founzégué Amadou as president. This appointment marks a return to the roots for GIERAF, which was created in 2009 in Lomé and initially led by Togolese Dr. Moïse Fiadjoe. However, this new term comes with major challenges for Togo and the organization.
Infertility remains a concerning public health issue in Africa, affecting millions of couples. Yet, it is often relegated to the background in the face of other health priorities. The Lomé congress highlighted medical advancements and prevention strategies, but also reminded of the persistent obstacles: lack of infrastructure, high treatment costs, and social stigma. As the new leader of GIERAF, Togo will need to work on strengthening research, improving access to care, and raising awareness among populations.
Dr. Kolani Jean Claude and his team will face several challenges over the next two years. First, they will need to consolidate cooperation among the 15 member countries of GIERAF, encouraging the sharing of expertise and resources. Then,
Togo will need to mobilize additional funds to finance research and training projects, while urging African governments to incorporate infertility care into their public health policies. Finally, it will be crucial to fight against cultural taboos surrounding infertility, in order to allow affected couples to benefit from appropriate medical and psychological support.
On the sidelines of the congress, the GIERAF leadership team was received by Togolese Prime Minister Victoire Tomégah-Dogbé, who reaffirmed the government’s support for the organization’s mission. This political support is a major asset for Togo, which will be able to rely on local and international partnerships to achieve its goals.
Togo’s leadership of GIERAF represents a unique opportunity to advance the fight against infertility in Africa. However, it will require unprecedented mobilization to tackle the structural, financial, and cultural challenges that persist. A challenge worthy of the hopes placed in this pan-African organization.
