Lomé, August 14, 2026 — Four days of intensive scientific exchanges concluded Friday at the University of Lomé with the closing of the 26th edition of the West African Chemistry Conference (SOACHIM). Jointly organized by the Universities of Lomé and Kara, the event brought together researchers, educators, academics, and students to address contemporary challenges in chemistry and its practical applications.
The closing ceremony was led by Professor Gado Tchagbedji, Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, who highlighted the event’s achievements and international participation.
More than 490 scientific presentations showcased
A total of 493 scientific communications were presented to 533 participants from eight SOACHIM member countries. Over the four-day event, attendees exchanged findings, shared experiences, and discussed key issues in chemistry through a structured program featuring an inaugural lecture, a roundtable discussion, and 15 thematic conferences.
The conference fostered intergenerational dialogue, offering students and early-career researchers a platform to present their work, receive peer feedback, and forge collaborations beyond their home institutions.
Participants praise the conference’s impact
The closing ceremony’s speeches and adopted motions underscored the conference’s organizational excellence and the depth of its discussions. Participants from SOACHIM’s member states praised the 26th edition as a resounding success, reaffirming the value of regional scientific forums in uniting West African universities, laboratories, and researchers.
While the sheer volume of presentations was notable, the true measure of success lies in translating these exchanges into collaborative research, joint projects, and solutions tailored to West Africa’s evolving needs.
Hands-on experience in food safety research
Following the closing ceremony, participants visited the National Food Safety and Phytosanitary Laboratory (LaNSA) to explore its state-of-the-art facilities. The guided tour provided a practical dimension to the event, allowing scientists and students to witness firsthand the laboratory’s role in ensuring food safety and phytosanitary standards across West Africa.
The conclusion of this 26th edition signals more than the end of four days of intellectual exchange—it highlights the growing imperative to bridge the gap between academic research, scientific expertise, and the tangible needs of West African societies.
