Lomé, August 14, 2026 — The 26th edition of the West African Chemistry Conference (SOACHIM) came to a close on Friday at the University of Lomé after four days of intensive scientific exchanges. Organized in collaboration with the University of Kara, the event brought together researchers, academics, educators, and students to tackle pressing challenges in chemistry and its practical applications.
The closing ceremony was led by Professor Gado Tchagbedji, Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, who highlighted the strong turnout and international participation that defined this year’s gathering.
Record Participation and Scientific Output
The conference featured nearly 500 scientific presentations, with a total of 493 papers delivered to an audience of 533 participants from eight SOACHIM member countries.
Over the four days, attendees engaged in lively debates, exchanged findings, and explored solutions across 15 thematic lectures and roundtable discussions. The program also included an opening lecture and multiple networking opportunities designed to bridge gaps between generations of scientists.
For students and early-career researchers, the event provided a platform to showcase their work, receive invaluable feedback, and forge partnerships beyond their home institutions.
Global Recognition for Regional Collaboration
Closing remarks and official resolutions praised the conference’s seamless organization and the depth of scholarly interactions. Participants from across the SOACHIM network hailed the 26th edition as a resounding success, underscoring the vital role of regional scientific forums in uniting universities, research labs, and chemists across West Africa.
The collective enthusiasm reflects a shared commitment to transforming dialogue into action—leveraging these exchanges into collaborative projects and region-specific solutions.
From Theory to Practical Impact
Following the formal closing, attendees toured the National Laboratory for Food and Phytosanitary Safety (LaNSA), gaining firsthand insight into its operations and cutting-edge facilities. The visit underscored the conference’s dual focus on academic rigor and real-world application, reinforcing the need to align university research with the pressing needs of West African societies.
The conclusion of SOACHIM 2026 signals more than the end of an annual event—it marks a renewed push toward turning scientific collaboration into tangible progress for the region.