The Armaments Corporation of South Africa (Armscor) is proud to host 21 scientists from 16
African countries at its Protechnik Laboratories from Monday, 8 to 19 June 2026 for the annual
Analytical Chemistry Course conducted under the auspices of the Organisation for the
Prohibition of Chemical Weapons.
The specialised training programme forms part of ongoing international efforts to strengthen
scientific and technical capabilities among African Member States in support of the
implementation of the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC).
The programme aims to enhance participants’ knowledge and practical competencies in
chemical analysis techniques relevant to the Convention. It will provide a platform for scientific
collaboration, skills transfer and knowledge sharing among experts from across the African
continent.
Speaking on the significance of the programme, Armscor Chief Executive Officer, Advocate
Solomzi Mbada, said:
“Armscor is honoured to once again partner with the Organisation for the Prohibition of
Chemical Weapons in advancing scientific excellence and capacity development across the
African continent. This programme reflects our commitment to supporting international efforts
aimed at promoting the peaceful use of chemistry while strengthening the technical
capabilities of African Member States.”
Over the two-week programme, participants will receive theoretical and practical training in a
range of specialised topics, including sampling and sample preparation procedures for CWC
related chemicals, method validation, gas chromatography, troubleshooting and maintenance,
as well as laboratory quality management systems.
The scientists will also gain valuable hands-on experience in gas chromatography techniques
using world-class laboratory facilities.
Mbada added that the training programme demonstrates the important role that science and
technology play in fostering international cooperation and security. “By equipping scientists
with advanced analytical skills and practical laboratory experience, we contribute to the
effective implementation of the Chemical Weapons Convention and support the development
of a highly skilled scientific community capable of addressing emerging challenges in chemical
analysis.
We are particularly proud that our Protechnik Laboratories continue to serve as the
only centre of excellence for training and knowledge exchange in the African continent.”
He further highlighted the importance of regional collaboration in building sustainable scientific
capabilities. “The participation of scientists from 14 African countries underscores the value of
collaboration in advancing scientific knowledge and expertise. Through initiatives such as this,
we strengthen networks among African professionals and contribute to the continent’s broader
science, technology and innovation agenda,” concluded Mbada.
Armscor’s Protechnik Laboratories possess advanced scientific and technical capabilities that
support research, development, testing and evaluation activities. Through partnerships with
international organisations and stakeholders, Armscor continues to contribute towards
capacity building, knowledge sharing and the advancement of science and technology in
support of national, regional and global objectives.
Countries represented in this year’s programme are Botswana, Cameroon, Ethiopia, Gambia,
Ghana, Kenya, Lesotho, Mauritius, Nigeria, Senegal, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe with
Liberia being represented for the first time since the inception of this initiative.
