June 16, 2025
Martine Pergent represents IPOPI at ARAPID and Moroccan Inborn Errors of Immunity Congress in Casablanca
From April 24 to 26, Martine Pergent, President of IPOPI, participated in the 4th Congress of the Arab Society for Primary Immunodeficiency (ARAPID) and the 18th Moroccan Inborn Errors of Immunity Congress, held in Casablanca, Morocco. This significant event brought together medical professionals, researchers, and patient representatives from North Africa and the Middle East to discuss the latest clinical advances in the diagnosis and management of immunodeficiencies (ID) in a region known for its high rates of consanguinity.
One of the highlights of the event was a special patient meeting where families from Morocco, Tunisia, and Saudi Arabia came together to celebrate World Primary Immunodeficiency Week (WPIW). The meeting not only focused on raising awareness but also provided a platform for shared experiences among families affected by PIDs, notably Ataxia-Telangectasia.
During the congress, Martine had the honour of paying tribute to Samia Akariou, a renowned actress and godmother of Hajar, IPOPI’s Moroccan national member. Samia was celebrated for her unwavering commitment to people living with primary immunodeficiencies (PIDs) and her role as an ambassador for World PI Week 2025. This heartfelt tribute, made possible by Prof Aziz Bousfiha, underscored the profound impact Samia has had on the PID community in Morocco and beyond.
Martine’s message was clear throughout the event: the region needs more patient organisations to collaborate with medical societies, ensuring that no one is left behind in the diagnosis and treatment of PIDs.
A heartfelt thank you to the organisers and all participants for their warm hospitality, incredible energy, and for making this event truly unforgettable!
