Landmark first MDS-African Section Parkinson’s disease and movement disorders conference: When the dream became reality

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On March 10-11, 2026 in Nairobi, the African Section of the International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society (MDS) successfully convened its landmark first regional conference for Africa: the first MDS-AS African Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders Conference (MDS APMC). Organized and conducted in collaboration with Global Parkinson's Genetics Program (GP2), the conference reflected a shared commitment to advancing movement disorders care, education, and research across Africa, in alignment with the MDS 2025-2029 Strategic Plan and its vision of strengthening global collaboration, regional engagement, education, and equitable access to movement disorders expertise worldwide.

This historic event brought together more than 130 colleagues from across the African continent alongside distinguished African and international faculty members. The conference was also offered in a hybrid format, attracting approximately 230 online registrations from participants internationally. The meeting represented a major milestone in the growth of the movement disorders community in Africa and reflected years of dedication, collaboration, and shared vision toward improving care, education, and research in the field across the continent.

The scientific program featured a broad range of topics in Parkinson’s disease and movement disorders, with high-quality lectures, interactive discussions, workshops and case-based sessions, and valuable opportunities for networking and collaboration. The enthusiasm, engagement, and passion of participants created a truly inspiring atmosphere throughout the meeting.

Beyond the scientific content, the conference highlighted the strength and potential of African clinicians, researchers and scientists, trainees, and allied health professionals working in movement disorders. It also reinforced the importance of regional collaboration, education, advocacy, and African-focused research initiatives in improving patient care across the continent.

This meeting was not only a successful scientific event, but also a symbolic moment, when a long-awaited dream became reality. It represents a remarkable achievement for both MDS-AS and the broader MDS community, and an important step toward a stronger, more connected future for movement disorders care, education, and research in Africa.