Experts To Tackle Dementia Challenges In Africa

Experts will gather at the Dementia Africa Conference 2026 in Abuja from September 2–3 at the Exclusive Serene Hotel to tackle the challenge, described as one of the fastest-growing health issues on the continent.

The event, the organisers said, will spark transformative action on dementia care under the theme: “The State of Dementia in Africa: Shaping the Future of Dementia Care in Africa.”

They said it will unite leaders, experts and communities from across the continent and beyond.

One of the organisers, Dr Oma Iyoko, in a statement made available to newsmen in Lokoja, Kogi State, said the conference is the first of its kind in Africa.

“As Africa’s population ages rapidly, dementia is emerging as a pressing reality, silently affecting millions of families. Yet, this conference signals a turning point.

“We aim to elevate dementia from an overlooked issue to a top priority in health strategies, funding, and community support—filling critical gaps in awareness, diagnosis, research, and policy,” Iyoko said.

She said the gathering will draw governments, policymakers, funders, NGOs, researchers, clinicians, and those with lived experience.

“Key highlights include: High-level policy dialogues to craft national and regional dementia strategies;c-country learning sessions for practical collaborations; evidence-based forums linking research to real-world care, and focusing on community-led solutions, early detection, stigma reduction, and gender equity—recognising women’s heavy caregiving roles,” Iyoko said.

On the choice of Abuja, she stressed, “Abuja’s selection as host city amplifies the impact. As Nigeria’s bustling policy hub, it positions the conference at the heart of decision-making, ensuring talks lead to tangible policies on ageing and non-communicable diseases.

“This is more than a meeting – it’s a movement. For funders, it’s a smart investment in scalable, culturally attuned solutions that bolster health systems and ease long-term burdens.

“Governments can showcase leadership in people-centered care, while NGOs and researchers amplify grassroots voices and bridge Africa’s gap in global dementia studies,” she added