The International Bureau for Epilepsy (IBE) has a strong presence in Africa, with active chapters in 22 countries. These chapters are officially registered and recognized within their respective nations.

IBE’s work in Africa is driven by a comprehensive set of goals aimed at improving the lives of people with epilepsy across the continent. These goals include:

Advocacy and Awareness

• Championing epilepsy prevention: Promoting awareness and supporting initiatives that prevent epilepsy.
• Prioritizing epilepsy on the national and regional agenda: Advocating for governments and regional organizations to prioritize epilepsy in their health policies and programs.
• Combating stigma and increasing knowledge: Developing and supporting programs that dispel myths, reduce stigma, and increase understanding of epilepsy among the general public and people living with the condition.

Treatment and Support

• Enhancing access to treatment: Supporting initiatives that improve access to effective epilepsy treatment, including medication and other therapies.
• Providing best-practice models: Developing and sharing models for the effective management of epilepsy in diverse settings.
• Building capacity through training: Advancing training and information sharing for healthcare professionals and others involved in epilepsy care.

Empowerment and Rights

• Amplifying the voices of people with epilepsy: Providing a platform for individuals with epilepsy and their associations to be heard and to participate in decision-making processes.
• Promoting human rights and dignity: Advocating for the accessibility of services, the protection of human rights, and the preservation of dignity for all people with epilepsy.

Research and Collaboration

• Fostering research: Encouraging and supporting research into epilepsy, including its causes, prevention, treatment, and social impact.
• Strengthening epilepsy associations: Supporting the development and strengthening of associations that promote the rights and well-being of people with epilepsy and their families.
• Unifying efforts across Africa: Coordinating the work of epilepsy associations across the continent and representing their collective interests to ensure a unified and powerful voice for epilepsy in Africa.

These goals demonstrate the IBE’s commitment to a holistic approach to epilepsy care in Africa, encompassing prevention, treatment, advocacy, empowerment, and research.