Epilepsy Indaba 2026

We are pleased to invite you to the Epilepsy South Africa National Epilepsy Indaba 2026, taking place on 11 February 2026 at Wits University from 09h00 to 13h30.

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The Epilepsy National Indaba 2026 will be held as a flagship event during National Epilepsy Week (9–15 February), building on the momentum of previous gatherings to unite people with epilepsy, carers, medical professionals, government representatives, and civil society.

This year’s Indaba will not only advance the national conversation on epilepsy but also celebrate the lived experiences, resilience, and contributions of people affected by the condition.

National Epilepsy Week is an important moment each year for us in South Africa to pause, reflect, and recommit, to improving epilepsy care, challenging stigma, and advancing the rights and inclusion of people with epilepsy. It aligns with International Epilepsy Day 9th February, which calls on all of us to move beyond awareness and toward meaningful, coordinated action.

The National Epilepsy Indaba is the centerpiece of this week, with our theme this year is ‘Epilepsy in Action’. It brings together government, health professionals, academics, civil society, carers, and people with lived experience to engage in honest dialogue and practical problem-solving.

The Indaba is firmly grounded in the WHO Intersectoral Global Action Plan (IGAP) on Epilepsy and Other Neurological Disorders, with a clear focus on how global and national commitments translate into real impact at community level in South Africa.

This year, the Indaba places particular emphasis on the Epilepsy Pledge.

By attending, participants will be invited to take a shared pledge to:

• Challenge stigma and discrimination wherever it exists
• Support early diagnosis, access to treatment, and continuity of care
• Advocate for the rights, dignity, and inclusion of people with epilepsy
• Turn awareness into concrete action within our institutions, communities, and systems

The pledge is simple, but powerful. Change happens when intention is matched with action.

• Seating is limited on a first-come, first-booked basis, with RSVPs via Quicket.
• Complimentary tea & coffee will be served during the break.
• 09h00 Registration | 09h30 – 13h30 Programme
• Humanities Graduate Centre, South West Engineering Building, East Campus, University of the Witwatersrand.

On 11 February at Wits, you can expect thoughtful discussion, diverse perspectives, and a strong focus on collaboration because no single sector can address epilepsy alone. Your presence and voice are important as we continue to build momentum and accountability during National Epilepsy Week.

We sincerely hope you will join us for the Epilepsy SA National Epilepsy Indaba 2026 and stand with us in moving from awareness to action.

For any enquiries, please email [email protected]