Malawi Launches Innovations Group at 4th International Congress on Global Surgery

The 4th International Congress on Innovations for Global Surgery (ICIGS 2025) culminated in the formation of the Malawi Innovations Global Surgery Group, a strategic initiative aimed at advancing surgical innovation both locally and globally.

The three-day congress, held under the theme “Sustainable Innovations in Global Surgery”, was hosted by Kamuzu University of Health Sciences (KUHeS) and brought together leading experts, students, and surgeons from across the world.

During both the opening and closing sessions, Professor Wakisa Mulwafu, the Executive Dean of the School of Medicine and Oral Health and Chair of the congress, expressed his honor at hosting the event.

He emphasized that the conference provided an excellent opportunity for surgeons in Malawi to learn from the extensive knowledge and experiences shared by their peers.

“The concept of such conferences fosters collaboration, and we engage students who dedicate significant effort to generating ideas and developing solutions,” he stated.

Khumbize Kandodo Chiponda, the Minister of Health and guest speaker, urged surgeons nationwide to adopt innovation as a vital strategy for addressing emerging public health challenges.

“We require cost-effective innovations to ensure that everyone in Malawi has access to quality surgical care. The Ministry of Health will continue to invest in strategies designed to strengthen surgical services to reduce both illness and mortality,” she explained.

She also highlighted ongoing initiatives, including training programs for surgeons through KUHeS and regional institutions like the College of Surgeons of East, Central, and Southern Africa (COSECSA), alongside efforts to expand infrastructure for surgical services.

In her keynote address, Dr. Alice Mbewe from the Malawi Liverpool Wellcome Trust underlined that remarkable ideas alone are insufficient for success.

“Effective technologies and robust partnerships are essential for innovation to thrive. Innovation must stem from all angles,” she stated.

Dr. Adam Bashir, ICIGS Malawi National Delegate, noted that the conference aimed to generate actionable plans to improve surgical care delivery for every Malawian, regardless of their location.