From left is Prof Anthony Afolayan (Founder), Dr Olubunmi Wintola, Dr Callistus Bvenura and Dr Gloria Otunola.
OUR HISTORY
A Vision Takes Root: The Founding of SOMPED
SOMPED’s story begins in January 2016, with a vision shared by Emeritus Professor Anthony Jide Afolayan. Recognizing the immense potential of Africa’s medicinal plants, Professor Afolayan envisioned a global network dedicated to unlocking their secrets and harnessing their power for a healthier future.
This vision wasn’t meant to remain a solitary thought. Professor Afolayan shared his idea with his research group, igniting a spark of shared passion. Even members who had completed their projects and returned to their respective stations joined the conversation, demonstrating the unifying power of this vision.
WHAT WE DO
SOMPED focuses in various areas of phytomedicine, pharmacology and toxicology including bioprospecting for novel drugs from medicinal plants.
Phytomedicine
Phytotherapy is the practice of using medicines derived from plants or herbs to treat or prevent health conditions. SOMPED’S role is to promote more research to determine their effectiveness and benefits for wellness and economic development.
Pharmacology
Pharmacology is the study of the interactions that occur between a living organism and chemicals that affect normal or abnormal biochemical function.
Toxicology
Toxicology is a scientific discipline, overlapping with biology, chemistry, pharmacology, and medicine, that involves the study of the adverse effects of chemical substances on living organisms and the practice of diagnosing and treating exposures to toxins and toxicants.
Our Team
Prof Olukemi Odukoya
President
University of Lagos
Nigeria
Prof Learnmore Kambizi
Vice President
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
South Africa
Dr Gloria A Otunola
General Secretary
University of Fort Hare
South Africa
Dr Callistus Bvenura
Director of Events
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
South Africa
Prof Anthony J. Afolayan
Ex-Officio
University of Fort Hare
South Africa
.
ABOUT US
SOMPED
SOMPED is a network of researchers that are engaged in the promotion of collaboration, research partnerships and mentoring of young researchers in the advancement of medicinal plants research. The Society was established in 2016.
