The Abidjan Cardiology Institute (ICA) has just made its mark on the continent's medical history. On June 4, 2026, the institution successfully performed the first atrial fibrillation ablation in sub-Saharan Africa , marking a decisive turning point in the treatment of heart rhythm disorders in the region.

The procedure was performed on a 56-year-old patient with severe symptoms. Demonstrating the effectiveness and minimally invasive nature of this technique, the patient was able to leave the hospital the very next day.

A synergy of national and international experts

This medical feat is the result of close human and technical collaboration. The operation was carried out by a highly skilled multidisciplinary team:

1. Principal Cardiologists (ICA): Prof. Adoubi Anicet, Dr. N'Djessan Jean-Jacques and Dr. Kouamé Stéphane.
2. Technical support (ICA): Dr. Tshihiluka (anesthesia), Prof. Ncho-Mottoh (cardiac scanner) and Dr. Angoran (ultrasound guidance).
3. Canadian partners ( Sainte-Justine Mission at the heart of the world ): Pre Blandine Mondésert, Dr Laroussi (Sacré-Cœur Hospital of Montreal), Lucie Costentin (nurse) and Cynthia Lauzon (technician).

What is atrial fibrillation? It is the most common heart rhythm disorder in the world. Caused by chaotic electrical activity in the atria, it generates palpitations, intense fatigue, shortness of breath, and significantly increases the risk of stroke. Ablation is now the standard treatment for restoring the quality of life of patients.

The result of the "Cardiology Initiative Project"

This success is no accident. It is part of the Cardiology Initiative Project , a program born from a five-year agreement signed in November 2022 between the Ivorian Ministry of Health, the Mitrelli group and their partners.

Abdoul Hien, Managing Director of Mitrelli Côte d'Ivoire and Senegal, welcomed the concrete progress of this partnership. For his part, the Managing Director of the ICA, Euloge Kramo, reiterated that this success validates the authorities' vision: "to make Côte d'Ivoire a center of excellence in the management of cardiovascular diseases."

A promising track record and future prospects

The Cardiology Initiative Project is already having a major impact:

1. 139 children taken into care.
2. More than 200 healthcare professionals trained at the ICA.
3. Three key missions completed in interventional rhythmology: 11 patients treated in May 2025, 13 in December 2025, and 11 in June 2026.

This first successful ablation officially opens a new era for specialized cardiology in sub-Saharan Africa. The course is already set for the future: preparations for the next interventional electrophysiology mission, scheduled for October 2026, are already underway.