Message from the President

The Commonwealth Pharmacists Association (CPA) is governed by a Council of 43, with one representative from each of its member organisations serving as a Councillor and managed by an Executive Committee. In the past, the term of office of Executive Committee members was four years. The constitution was amended and the term of office was reduced to two years. The effect of this will be seen for the first time this year, as elections for a new Executive Committee will take place in August. It is therefore important for member countries to attend this year’s meeting in Accra, Ghana.

Although the CPA is a small organisation, we should not forget the fact that 30% of the world's population lives in the Commonwealth and that half of these people are under 25 years of age.

The CPA is uniquely positioned to work along with other medical professional associations to make an impact and to have the voice of pharmacists heard through the unique opportunities arising from the Commonwealth Peoples Forum and the Commonwealth Heads of Government meetings. This fact is recognised and acknowledged by the Director of the Commonwealth Foundation, Mark Collins.

In my practice environment, it is clear that health policy adopted and implemented by the Health Department stems from the meetings of the Commonwealth Health Ministers meetings and it is therefore imperative that the CPA remains strong, active and to ensure that the pharmacist's professional potential remains visible to decision makers. If we are involved, we will all be in the ideal position to contribute to the well being of our communities.

Remember to visit this website regularly so that you can find out about the activities and benefits that the CPA can offer its members.

Ivan Kotzé, BPharm, MCPA, FPS
President