As part of the project to develop physiotherapy in Portuguese-speaking African countries (PALOP), the Portuguese Association of Physiotherapists was present at the Congress and General Meeting of the PALOP. World Physiotherapy Africa RegionThe event took place between 12 and 15 September in Cape Town, South Africa. This project aims to strengthen the health, education and professional regulation infrastructure in the PALOP countries by promoting the creation of professional associations, the development of advanced training programmes and the implementation of licensing systems.
During the event, the Order played an active role, holding strategic meetings with various organisations, including the President of World Physiotherapy, Mike Landry, and the President of WP's African Region, Joseph Martial. There was also a specific meeting for the project, attended by representatives from Mozambique, Angola, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau and São Tomé and Príncipe, demonstrating the Order's strong commitment to the development of Physiotherapy in the region.
One of the congress sessions included a public presentation of the project by physiotherapist Cláudia Costa, representing the Order of Physiotherapists together with physiotherapist Marco Clemente, who detailed the actions already carried out and future objectives. This exhibition gave the project greater visibility and facilitated the establishment of new contacts and partnerships, including with the World Health Organisation (WHO) and various NGOs, which have shown an interest in collaborating in the "Rehabilitation 2030" programme.
The Order's participation resulted in important advances, including international recognition of its leadership in supporting the development of Physiotherapy in the PALOP countries and the formalisation of a memorandum of understanding with the partner countries, defining the project's guidelines and next steps. The Order also reinforced the role of local partners as leaders in their countries, acting as a facilitator and supporting the strengthening of Physiotherapy associations.
This event represents a significant milestone in realising the project's objectives and strengthening relations between the Order of Physiotherapists and the international community. The Order will remain committed to promoting Physiotherapy and contributing to the development of the profession in Portuguese-speaking countries, with a view to collaboration and building a healthier future for all.
