The Zimbabwe Anaesthetic Association (ZAA) recently hosted its much-anticipated Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the scenic La Rochelle in Penhalonga, Mutare, from the 24th to the 25th of October 2024. The event was a resounding success, bringing together anaesthetists from across the country for an enriching two-day session filled with important discussions, presentations, and networking opportunities.

A Perfect Setting for Collaboration

Set against the backdrop of Penhalonga’s tranquil landscapes, La Rochelle proved to be an ideal venue for the AGM. The serene atmosphere fostered an environment conducive to learning, collaboration, and the exchange of ideas. Located just outside Mutare, the venue offered both comfort and accessibility, allowing attendees to focus on the critical issues at hand while being immersed in the natural beauty of the area.

Highlights of the AGM

The ZAA AGM is always a key event in the anaesthesia community’s calendar, and this year’s meeting did not disappoint. Among the highlights were a series of well-curated sessions addressing the latest developments in anaesthetic practice, challenges faced by anaesthetists in Zimbabwe, and the role of the profession in improving patient outcomes across the healthcare system.

Keynote Addresses and Presentations: Prominent anaesthetists and medical experts delivered insightful keynote speeches and presentations on various topics, including:

• Advancements in Anaesthesia Equipment: A discussion on the latest innovations in anaesthesia technology, with a focus on making modern equipment more accessible in low-resource settings.

• Challenges and Opportunities in Anaesthetic Practice in Zimbabwe: This session examined the unique challenges faced by anaesthetists in Zimbabwe, including shortages of resources, training opportunities, and strategies for improving patient safety.

• Anesthesia and Critical Care Collaboration: A focused discussion on how anaesthetists can collaborate more effectively with critical care specialists to enhance patient care, particularly in intensive care units (ICUs).

Workshops and Training: The AGM also featured practical workshops aimed at upskilling practitioners. These workshops were led by experienced professionals and provided hands-on training in areas such as airway management, regional anaesthesia techniques, and pain management strategies.

Election of New Board Members: One of the key formal activities at the AGM was the election of new board members for the ZAA. The election process was smooth, with members voting to elect a dynamic new leadership team tasked with advancing the association’s goals in the coming year.

Networking and Collaboration

The AGM served as an invaluable platform for networking, allowing attendees to meet, share experiences, and discuss collaborative initiatives. Many anaesthetists expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to connect with colleagues from different regions, strengthening the bonds within the ZAA and the broader healthcare community.

In addition to the academic and professional sessions, the social events planned for the evening provided a chance for attendees to unwind and build relationships in a more informal setting. The beautiful surroundings of La Rochelle made for a perfect setting for these gatherings, and it was clear that the ZAA had put considerable thought into ensuring a balanced and engaging programme.

Conclusion

The ZAA’s 2024 AGM at La Rochelle was a testament to the collective strength and commitment of the anaesthesia community in Zimbabwe. It provided a platform for education, collaboration, and professional growth, all while showcasing the natural beauty of the region. As the association moves into the future, it remains dedicated to advancing anaesthesia care and improving patient safety across the country.

Attendees left the AGM feeling recharged and motivated, with a renewed sense of purpose and a shared commitment to raising the standards of anaesthesia care in Zimbabwe.