Advancing neurosurgery across Africa
The Continental Association of African Neurosurgical Societies was established in 2012. It is a non-governmental organisation that plays a critical role in advancing the professional, educational and scientific practice of neurosurgery on the African continent. Our members include neurosurgical specialists and neurosurgical registrars (residents) practising within Africa. CAANS is one of the five organisations that fall under the World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies (WFNS).
CAANS aims to increase the neurosurgical workforce within Africa to ensure quality services are offered to our patients — promoting educational and research activities, and an environment of collaboration with governments and university structures to advocate for equitable health care for patients with neurosurgical conditions.
Within our core values we emphasise ubuntu — an African-origin value system that highlights solidarity, compassion, respect and dignity.
A neurosurgeon trained in Africa, for Africa, strengthens every society in our union.
The five purposes of CAANS
The aims that define our mandate as a continental federation.
Collegial association
Facilitating the personal and collegial association and development of neurological surgeons throughout Africa.
Knowledge exchange
Aiding in the exchange and dissemination of knowledge and ideas in the field of neurological surgery.
Research
Encouraging research in neurological surgery and in allied sciences.
Neurosurgical demography
Addressing issues of neurosurgical demography.
Standards of care
Promoting, implementing and improving minimum and higher standards of neurosurgical care and training in Africa.
How CAANS is structured
A clear line from the Executive Committee through the Administrative Council to the standing committees.
Executive Committee
President · Vice-President · Secretary-General · Treasurer
Administrative Council
Regional officers from all five regions
Standing Committees
Education · Research · Membership · Congress