About the Conference:

The Pan-African Course on Interventional Cardiology (PAFCIC) is the leading cardiovascular intervention conference in Africa, bringing together healthcare professionals from across the continent and beyond. This inspiring international event offers a rich scientific program covering major topics in catheter therapy, coronary and structural heart disease, valvular interventions, heart failure, electrophysiology, and the latest pharmacological advances in cardiovascular disease management.

The conference features lectures by renowned speakers, live case transmissions, hands-on workshops, abstract presentations, and interactive case discussions. Dedicated sessions are also designed for cath lab technicians and CCU nurses, ensuring an inclusive and practical learning experience.

This year marked the 25th Anniversary of PAFCIC, held under the auspices of the Tunisian Society of Cardiology and Cardiovascular Surgery (STCCCV) and the Panafrican Society of Cardiology (PASCAR), with strong contributions from national working groups and PASCI – the Association of Structural and Cardiovascular Intervention of PASCAR. The event also hosted the 11th Africa Fellows Summit, dedicated to empowering the next generation of interventional cardiologists.

SSL Participation at PAFCIC 2025

At Stent – Save a Life!, we were proud to take part in this prestigious event through two main activities:

1. Scientific Session: STEMI Management in Africa

This high-level session brought together international experts to discuss strategies, challenges, and success stories in improving STEMI care across Africa and other low- and middle-income regions.
Session Speakers:
Youssef Ben Ameur – Jan Piek – Mohamed Sobhy – Hadley Wilson – Habib Gamra – Faiez Zannad – Wael Al Mahmeed

Facilitators:
Jonathan Byrne – Kais Battikh

Highlights Included:
• Stent – Save a Life! Objectives and Achievements – Jan Piek (The Netherlands)
• SSL in Africa: Achievements So Far – Mohamed Sobhy (Egypt)
• Update on SSL Initiative in Tanzania – Khuzaima Khanbhai (Tanzania)
• GHATI: An ACC Initiative for STEMI Care in LMICs – Hadley Wilson (USA)
• Najda Initiative for STEMI Management in Tunisia – Salem Abdessalem (Tunisia)
• Insights from STEMI India Program – Thomas Alexander (India)
• Africa STEMI Live – Mohamed Jeilan (Kenya)

The discussion was dynamic and forward-thinking — all participants shared a common goal: improving access to timely and effective STEMI care across Africa.

Facilitators: Jonathan Byrne – Kais Battikh
Highlights Included:
• Stent – Save a Life! Objectives and Achievements – Jan Piek (The Netherlands) • SSL in Africa: Achievements So Far – Mohamed Sobhy (Egypt)
• Update on SSL Initiative in Tanzania – Khuzaima Khanbhai (Tanzania)
• GHATI: An ACC Initiative for STEMI Care in LMICs – Hadley Wilson (USA)
• Najda Initiative for STEMI Management in Tunisia – Salem Abdessalem (Tunisia)
• Insights from STEMI India Program – Thomas Alexander (India)
• Africa STEMI Live – Mohamed Jeilan (Kenya)

The discussion was dynamic and forward-thinking — all participants shared a common goal: improving access to timely and effective STEMI care across Africa.

2. SSL Booth

The SSL booth served as a vibrant meeting point for both new and existing members of the initiative. It attracted many attendees eager to learn more about SSL’s mission, ongoing projects, and regional updates. The booth also provided a valuable space for networking and sharing experiences among current collaborators.

Looking Ahead

Building on the success of PAFCIC 2025, Stent – Save a Life! looks forward to more impactful collaborations and reunions across upcoming international meetings — strengthening partnerships, sharing progress, and driving forward the mission of improving STEMI care for all.