The Armaments Corporation of South Africa (Armscor) will welcome twenty-five scientists from 13 African countries to the 15th Annual Analytical Chemistry Course (ACC), taking place from 1 – 12 September 2025 at Protechnik Laboratories in Centurion.
The course, offered under the auspices of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen Africa’s capacity in implementing the Chemical Weapons Convention. The theme, “Strengthening Chemistry Amongst African State Members,” underscores the importance of regional collaboration and knowledge-sharing.
Participants will gain hands-on training in areas such as sample preparation and verification of chemical warfare agents and their degradation products. The correct use of analytical instruments and software, method validation and basic laboratory equipment maintenance will also be explored. Key topics will include gas chromatograAphy, toxic industrial chemicals, mass spectrometry, the detection of chemical warfare agents and their degradation products.
“We are honoured to host our fellow African scientists at Protechnik Laboratories, a hub of expertise and innovation,” said Advocate Solomzi Mbada, CEO of Armscor. “This gathering not only enhances scientific proficiency but also deepens relations among OPCW member states. Armscor remains committed to supporting initiatives that contribute to Africa’s stability and development.”
Adv. Mbada added: “Each year, scientists return to their countries better equipped to promote the peaceful regulation and application of chemistry. We trust that the knowledge gained here will be shared widely to strengthen the capacity of designated laboratories across the continent.”
Protechnik Laboratories, part of Armscor’s Research and Development business unit, is a multidisciplinary facility specialising in chemical and biological defence research. It provides advanced analytical services for the detection of highly toxic and prohibited agents and supports protective solutions such as testing masks and specialised materials.
