Our History
From a visionary gathering in Durban to a continental movement — the journey of the African Council of Optometry spanning over 28 years of unity, growth, and impact.
Foundation & Inauguration
AFCO was proposed in 1996 at the International Association of Contact Lens Educators (IACLE) conference in Durban, South Africa. The vision was clear: create a continental body to represent African optometry associations and liaise with the World Council of Optometry.
🇺🇳 Founding Nations & Representatives (1996, Durban)
Gambia
B.S Daffeh
Ghana
Dr Francis Morny
Beatrice Letsu
Angela Amedo
Kenya
Prof. B.S Mencias
Nigeria
Dr Emma Esenwa
Tanzania
J. Kamugisha
Valerian Lyiimo
Togo
Senanu Quacoe Wossinu
South Africa
Alan Rubin
Other National Officers
📅 Formal Inauguration: July 1998, Abuja, Nigeria
During the Nigerian Optometry Association General Delegates Meeting, AFCO was formally inaugurated in the presence of the then WCO President Dr. Manfred Müller. Prof. D. Sheni was elected as the first president, with Senanu Quacoe Wossinu as Secretary and Beatrice Letsu as Treasurer.
Prof. Sheni, alongside D. Eyime (Nigeria) and Quacoe Wossinu (Togo), were subsequently nominated to represent the continent at the WCO Governing Board.
Journey Through the Years
Proposal at IACLE Conference
AFCO concept born in Durban, South Africa, bringing together seven founding nations.
Formal Inauguration
AFCO officially launched in Abuja, Nigeria. Prof. D. Sheni becomes first President.
First AGM in Accra, Ghana
Establishing the tradition of continental gatherings for strategic planning.
New Constitution Adopted
In Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, AFCO adopted a new constitution, establishing subcommittees and fellowship programs.
New Leadership Era
Dr. Remi Kofi Nimkpe (Ghana) assumes presidency, with Dr. Ozy Okonokhua (Nigeria) as President-Elect.
Past Presidents of AFCO
The visionary leaders who have guided the continental body through decades of growth.
Prof. D. Sheni
Mr. Senanu Quacoe Wossinu
Dr. Ronald Eyime
Dr. Uduak Udom
Dr. Cecil Nwafor
Mr. Dralega Anguo
Mr. Patrick Mawila
Mr. Richard Maveneka
Mr. Frank Magupa
Dr. Enwantang Ayoukutang
Dr. Remi Kofi Nimkpe
Dr. Ozy Okonokhua
Member Nations
From 7 founding countries to 16 — and growing.
Plus emerging associations in Sierra Leone, Mali, and beyond — AFCO continues to expand its continental footprint.
Honor Roll of Service
These individuals have shaped AFCO through dedication, vision, and selfless service.
Senanu Quacoe Wossinu
Doyen of AFCO. Served as General Secretary twice, then President. Coordinated Francophone African countries and drafted the maiden constitution.
Dr. Ronald Eyime
Onetime president who held the new organization together during its formative years.
Prof. Kovin Naidoo
Served as Vice President and lent immense support through global partnerships and advocacy.
Dr. Uduak Udom
Served as president and later became WCO President, elevating African optometry globally.
Dr. Cecil Nwafor
Served as president (2012-2014) and General Secretary, ensuring organizational continuity.
Prof. Tuwani
Instrumental in educational advancement and AFCO’s representation to WCO.
Naomi Nsubuga
A force in organizing the profession across East Africa.
Prof. Canice Asonye
First General Secretary of AFCO, laying foundational administrative structures.
The Future of AFCO
With abundant resources and a strong foundation, AFCO is poised to rise above challenges in governance, funding, and capacity building. Under the leadership of Dr. Remi Kofi Nimkpe and President-Elect Dr. Ozy Okonokhua, the continental body is set to make an even greater impact on eye health and vision care across Africa.
Strengthening structures
Sustainable partnerships
Expanding to 40+ nations
Advanced skill development