Lomé, 14 August 2026 — A four-day scientific exchange concluded on Friday at the University of Lomé with the closing ceremony of the 26th edition of the West African Society of Chemistry (SOACHIM) conference. Jointly organized by the Universities of Lomé and Kara, the event brought together researchers, academics, university lecturers and students to explore current challenges and innovations in chemistry and its applications.
The closing ceremony was led by Professor Gado Tchagbedji, Minister Delegate for Higher Education and Scientific Research. The event highlighted a highly successful edition, marked by robust scientific engagement and international participation.
Record participation and scientific output
The conference set new benchmarks in attendance and research output. Over the course of the four days, 493 scientific communications were presented to a diverse audience of 533 participants from across the eight SOACHIM member countries.
The program featured a dynamic blend of activities: a keynote lecture, a roundtable discussion, and 15 thematic conferences, complemented by several additional scientific activities. These sessions fostered rich exchanges across generations of chemists, offering students and early-career researchers a valuable platform to showcase their work, receive peer feedback, and forge cross-institutional collaborations.
A celebration of regional scientific collaboration
During the closing ceremony, speakers and delegates praised the event’s organization and the quality of the scientific dialogue. Participants from SOACHIM member countries described the 26th edition as a resounding success. The consensus underscored the importance of regional scientific forums that unite universities, laboratories and researchers from across West Africa.
The emphasis now shifts to translating these exchanges into tangible outcomes: joint research projects, collaborative initiatives, and solutions tailored to the region’s evolving scientific and industrial needs.
Exploring applied research in real-world settings
Following the official closing, participants visited the National Laboratory for Food Safety and Phytosanitary Control (LaNSA) for an on-site tour of its facilities. The guided visit provided insight into the laboratory’s operations and its role in ensuring food safety and phytosanitary standards across the region. This practical immersion reinforced the conference’s mission to bridge the gap between academic research and real-world societal needs.
The conclusion of SOACHIM 2026 not only marks the end of four days of intensive dialogue but also signals a renewed commitment to strengthening the ties between university research, scientific expertise, and the pressing priorities of West African societies.
