After two years in the making, the 5th World Congress of GI Endoscopy, ENDO 2026, took place from September 24 to 26, 2026 in Cape Town. The Congress was hosted by WEO in partnership with the South African Gastroenterology Society (SAGES), the Association of Surgeons of South Africa (ASSA), and the South African Society of Endoscopic Surgeons (SASES).
Through close collaboration and under the leadership of WEO Past President Lars Aabakken and Co-Chair Mashiko Setshedi, the four societies delivered a stimulating high-quality conference that attracted 1447 participants from 86 countries worldwide, creating a vibrant platform for learning, exchange, and international collaboration.
An outstanding faculty of 154 international and local experts delivered a rich scientific program featuring honorary lectures, educational sessions, panel discussions, and presentations spanning the full spectrum of gastrointestinal endoscopy. Over the three days, delegates explored the latest advances, shared experiences, and discussed emerging trends shaping the future of the field.
One of the most anticipated highlights was the two-day live demonstration program directed by WEO Past President Jean-Francois Rey. Bringing together experts from AIG Hospital in Hyderabad under the leadership of Dr. D. Nageshwar Reddy, and Evangelisches Krankenhaus Düsseldorf, led by Prof. Dr. med. Torsten Beyna, the program showcased live procedures across a broad spectrum of gastrointestinal endoscopy. The sessions highlighted cutting-edge techniques, expert decision-making, and real-world clinical practice, offering delegates invaluable learning experiences in real time and practical takeaways.
Hands-on training was also a central feature of ENDO 2026. The two-day comprehensive program led by Dr Istvan Hritz brought together international and local experts across 18 specialized training stations enabling 270 participants to gain practical experience in both basic and advanced endoscopic procedures.
The congress also reflected the strength of collaboration across the endoscopy community. The ENDO 2026 industry partners played an important role in supporting educational and scientific initiatives, while WEO and its longstanding partner societies recognized excellence through grants and awards for outstanding abstract presenters, helping to encourage innovation and support the next generation of investigators.
Beyond the scientific program, ENDO 2026 demonstrated the power of global partnership. It provided a unique opportunity for colleagues from around the world to connect, exchange ideas, and build relationships, while further advancing WEO's commitment to expanding education and expertise worldwide.
As the congress concluded, participants left Cape Town with new knowledge, new connections, and renewed inspiration. The closing ceremony also marked an important moment for the organization, welcoming Dr. Asadur Tchekmedyian as WEO President for 2026-2028 and looking ahead to the next chapter of the congress. Delegates were invited to continue the journey in Panama City for ENDO 2028, taking place March 11-13, 2028.
ENDO 2026 will be remembered not only for its outstanding educational program, but also for the historic significance of bringing the world's leading endoscopy congress to Africa for the very first time laying the foundation for future collaboration across the global endoscopy community.
