26/04/2026
The 5th African Society of Dermatovenereology Congress, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (April 23–24, 2026)
One challenge we often face as Ethiopians if we can call it that is that we do not engage enough with the international community or showcase what we are truly capable of.
Two years ago, when it was decided that Ethiopia would host ASDV congress in Addis Ababa, many doubted us.
They said Ethiopia could not organize such a meeting. They argued that major pharmaceutical and beauty companies would not sponsor the congress due to limited market access. They raised political tensions, claiming Ethiopia’s issues with Egypt would affect participation. They questioned the activity of Ethiopian professionals and even the leadership of our society.
Seven months before the congress, during World Skin Health Assembly meeting in Cape Town, I was approached by the setting ASDV president, the president of International congress of Dermatology and one another senior leaders in the field and urged to consider moving the event to another country. The opening statement from their side was “You people are not ready for this big event, may be another time and we do not want our young regional socity congress to be a disaster and before it is late why not think another country with experience”. I was disheartened but also angered by the underlying assumptions: that because Ethiopians are less visible in international forums, we are somehow less capable.
I know deep down the reality is quite the opposite. Ethiopia has one of the largest numbers of dermatologists in the region, second only to Egypt, and a well-trained, competent workforce. And most importantly the country is known in hosting much bigger international meetings but again no visibility.
My response was firm: these arguments were unfounded. We do not rely on big pharma or beauty companies to define our success we have trusted, long-term collaborators who believe in our work beyond business interests. Political disagreements are for governments we are dermatologists, not politicians. And being told that we were incapable was simply unacceptable.
That same day, I connected with colleagues from the Ethiopian Dermatovenereology Society. We agreed on one thing: we move forward, and we prove them wrong.
The local organizing committee mobilized immediately. Within a week, working with local partners, they secured one of the most prestigious venues in the country and ensured full logistical support and accommodation for presenters. The scientific committee worked tirelessly, meeting weekly for four months to develop a strong program and coordinate more than 30 international speakers.
And the result?
We successfully hosted the 5th African Society of Dermatovenereology Congress featuring 49 scientific sessions presented by experts from around 30 countries from North America to Southeast Asia, with approximately 180 participants in attendance.
It became the largest and most diverse gathering of African dermatologists to date. Beyond the scientific excellence, the congress created meaningful connections through a city tour, a vibrant cultural night, and a memorable gala dinner at the Skylight Hotel.
I am incredibly proud of the organizing and scientific committees, our dedicated young volunteers, and our committed partners and sponsors. We did more than deliver a successful congress we challenged assumptions, shifted perceptions, and demonstrated what determination, collaboration, and belief can achieve.
A lesson for all my country health professionals
From my experience across the globe, most Ethiopians are scientifically competent and professionally disciplined. The gap is not capacity it is visibility. Our limited research output and hesitation to speak up sometimes create the wrong impression.
It is time to change that narrative.
Wendemagegn Enbiale (MD, MPH, PhD)
