From March 10 to 14, 2025, 2nd Chance conducted a reconstructive surgery training mission at CHU Sylvanus Olympio in Lomé, Togo, in partnership with the West African College of Surgeons (WACS). The mission brought together 16 surgeons from 12 countries: Nigeria, Burundi, Sierra Leone, Benin, Burkina Faso, Ghana, Somalia, DR Congo, Ethiopia, Côte d’Ivoire, Cameroon, and Togo.
Led by Dr. Pierre Quinodoz (President of 2nd Chance), and supported by trainers: Dr. Dominique André-Lavigne (Switzerland), Dr. Edward Wayi (Tanzania), and Dr. Endale Kefale Aydeferu (Ethiopia), the mission provided a vital opportunity to strengthen the surgical skills of regional surgeons in reconstructive surgery, particularly in managing burn sequelae and severe injuries.
🎙️ Meet Dr. Dominik André-Lévigne, Senior Resident at the HUG (Geneva) and first time trainer for 2nd Chance in this workshop. As an experienced surgeon, he played a vital role by:
✅ Contributing to the training of 16 plastic surgeons from various sub-Saharan African countries
✅ Teaching basic reconstructive surgery techniques, combining fundamental and innovative approaches
✅ Encouraging experience-sharing between African and European surgeons, fostering mutual learning
💬 “What truly inspired me was how participants, both French and English speakers, connected so well, coming from different African countries to build a regional network together.”
Transforming Lives
💙 A total of 11 patients underwent reconstructive surgeries, offering them a chance to regain mobility and dignity. These surgeries primarily focused on treating severe burn contractures, particularly on the hands.
Strengthening Local Capacity
This mission also helped build the autonomy of local surgeons, establishing a sustainable network of healthcare professionals capable of delivering specialized care. By training surgeons and anesthetists, 2nd Chance is contributing to ensuring long-term access to high-quality reconstructive surgical care in West Africa.
🙏 This mission was made possible thanks to the dedication of our trainers, the enthusiasm of our participants, and the generous support of our partners and donors. Together, we rebuild lives.
