The Congresses are the key to the continuance of OTARG. They have reinforced the strong indications for grassroots, community work with disabled children and adults and have promoted learning and sharing.

Trends in occupational therapy that have emerged from the congresses that are to be addressed, in order to meet the needs of the disabled in Africa

In Africa there needs to be much more focus in occupational therapy on:

• HIV/AIDS, poverty issues and psychosocial rehabilitation
• There is a need to see both the training of occupational therapists and occupational therapy services continued by the indigenous people of the country, whilst recognising the contribution made by ex-patriots.
• Links with South Africa, where the profession of occupational therapy is much stronger, and the links with WFOT will continue for a long time.
  
  

The first OTARG International Congress took place at Grand Bay in Mauritius in July 1999.
The theme was “ The 2000 challenge. OT in Africa.”

The 2nd International OTARG Congress was held in Kampala in Uganda in July 2001.
The theme was “The way forward, OT in Africa.”

The 3rd OTARG International Congress took place on the island of Mombasa in August 2003.
The theme was “Grassroots contribution to OT in Africa.”

4th OT ARG Congress in Moshi in August 2005.
The theme was “OT in Africa – in search for identity.”

The 5th International OTARG Congress was held on the island of Zanzibar in September 2007.
The theme was “Occupation and culture: Affirming Diversity in Occupational Therapy.”

It was decided that the 6th OTARG Congress in 2009 would be held in Malawi.