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.
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.
B.S Daffeh
Dr Francis Morny
Beatrice Letsu
Angela Amedo
Prof. B.S Mencias
Dr Emma Esenwa
J. Kamugisha
Valerian Lyiimo
Senanu Quacoe Wossinu
Alan Rubin
Other National Officers
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.
AFCO concept born in Durban, South Africa, bringing together seven founding nations.
AFCO officially launched in Abuja, Nigeria. Prof. D. Sheni becomes first President.
Establishing the tradition of continental gatherings for strategic planning.
In Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, AFCO adopted a new constitution, establishing subcommittees and fellowship programs.
Dr. Remi Kofi Nimkpe (Ghana) assumes presidency, with Dr. Ozy Okonokhua (Nigeria) as President-Elect.
The visionary leaders who have guided the continental body through decades of growth.
From 7 founding countries to 16 — and growing.
Plus emerging associations in Sierra Leone, Mali, and beyond — AFCO continues to expand its continental footprint.
These individuals have shaped AFCO through dedication, vision, and selfless service.
Doyen of AFCO. Served as General Secretary twice, then President. Coordinated Francophone African countries and drafted the maiden constitution.
Onetime president who held the new organization together during its formative years.
Served as Vice President and lent immense support through global partnerships and advocacy.
Served as president and later became WCO President, elevating African optometry globally.
Served as president (2012-2014) and General Secretary, ensuring organizational continuity.
Instrumental in educational advancement and AFCO’s representation to WCO.
A force in organizing the profession across East Africa.
First General Secretary of AFCO, laying foundational administrative structures.
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.