5–9 October 2025
Cape Town International Convention Centre

Meet the keynote speakers of FIGO Cape Town 2025

President's session

Sunday 5 October 2025 | 09:45 – 10:45

Postpartum haemorrhage (PPH)

The President’s session at FIGO Cape Town 2025 will feature global leaders in maternal and newborn health as they share valuable insights and address critical issues related to postpartum haemorrhage.

The session will begin with an introduction by the FIGO President, followed by a video presentation from the White Ribbon Alliance, highlighting real-world perspectives from a midwife. Keynotes will cover the WHO PPH Roadmap, maternal and newborn health advancements in Africa, challenges in reducing maternal mortality, lessons from devolution in Kenya, and the role of professional societies in improving health outcomes.

This engaging session will conclude by reflecting on the importance of global collaboration in addressing maternal health challenges.

Professor Jacqueline Dunkley-Bent

Chief Midwife, International Confederation of Midwives (ICM)

H.E. Mutula Kilonzo Junior, CBS

Governor of Makueni, Kenya

Ms. Angela Nguku

Founder and Executive Director, White Ribbon Alliance Kenya

Professor Ibrahima Teguete

President of Mali Society of Obstetrics and Gynaecology

Mahmoud Fathalla Lecture

Sunday 5 October 2025 | 11:15 – 12:15

Violence against women

We are honored to present the Mahmoud Fathalla Lecture, recognising individuals who have tirelessly championed women’s health, rights, and dignity in even the most resource-limited settings. This year’s lecture will be delivered by Dr Sima Samar, a Nobel Peace Prize nominee and global human rights icon.

Dr Samar has dedicated her life to advancing human rights, particularly for women. As Chair of the Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commission, she has been a force for justice, holding violators accountable and shaping the future of rights protections in Afghanistan. Her leadership and commitment to justice are an inspiring example of resilience and compassion.

Join us for an unforgettable experience as Dr Samar shares her insights on human rights and women’s empowerment.

Dr Sima Samar

Head of the Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commission

Howard Taylor Lecture

Tuesday 7 October 2025 | 11:15 – 12:15

Mental health and wellbeing: ACOG work and programming priorities

We are thrilled to invite you to the prestigious Howard Taylor Lecture, where experts will explore the critical intersection of mental health and wellbeing in women’s healthcare. Learn about the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists’ (ACOG) groundbreaking work and programming priorities aimed at enhancing the mental and emotional well-being of patients.

Dr Stella M. Dantas, MD

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)

Dr Tiffany Moore Simas, MD, MPH, MEd

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)

Dr Emily Miller, MD

De Watteville Memorial Lecture

Wednesday 8 October 2025 | 11:15 – 12:15

The emperor has no clothes

This session will explore the critical issue of declining fertility rates and their far-reaching consequences. It will present demographic data on total fertility rates at the country, continental, and national levels, highlighting the impact of falling demographics on various aspects of our lives. The session will also examine evidence on potential causes of this trend and offer a compelling call to action for addressing the challenges posed by these demographic shifts.

Dr Edgar Mocanu

Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) Obstetrics and Gynaecology

B. N. Purandare Lecture

Thursday 9 October 2025 | 11:15 – 12:15

Assisted reproductive technologies: the future is bright

This lecture will explore the exciting advancements in assisted reproductive technologies (ART) and their potential to revolutionise the future of fertility treatments. The session will highlight cutting-edge developments, emerging trends, and the transformative impact of ART in expanding reproductive options and improving outcomes for patients worldwide.

Professor Hrishikesh Pai

Past President of FOGSI, Federation of Obstetric & Gynaecological Societies of India

Welcome Ceremony

Sunday 5 October | 17:30 – 18:30

The FIGO 2025 Welcome Ceremony promises to be an impactful and engaging event, setting the tone for an unforgettable Congress. Attendees will experience a series of warm welcoming remarks followed by a keynote address from the FIGO President. The VIP segment will feature the Mayor of Cape Town, with additional messages from global leaders such as the WHO Director-General, delivered via video. The ceremony will also include the prestigious presentation of the FIGO Recognition and Distinguished Merit Awards, honouring outstanding contributions to women’s health worldwide. Be sure to attend the Networking reception after this session concludes!