Tributes on the passing of two great champions of global anaesthesia: Philippe Mavoungou and Bill Owens.
Dr. Philippe Mavoungou
Philippe was a committed supporter of WFSA, having served as a member of the Board, Council, and Chair of the ad-hoc Equipment Committee. As a regional representative for Africa on the WFSA Council, Philippe regularly championed anaesthesia and critical care at the annual WHO Africa Regional Office Committee meetings. He was also a Past President of WFSA’s African Regional Section.
A statement from the African Regional Section (ARS) on the Dr. Mavoungou
It is with profound sadness that we have learned of the passing of Dr. Philippe Mavoungou, a revered leader, mentor, and advocate for anaesthesia and critical care in Africa.
Dr. Mavoungou was a visionary whose passion for anaesthesiology on the continent will be felt for years to come. As a former President of the ARS, he dedicated his life to advancing the practice of anaesthesia in Africa, fostering collaborations, and ensuring that safe anaesthesia care became a reality for all. His leadership was instrumental in strengthening national societies and empowering professionals across the region.
Dr. Mavoungou was a compassionate mentor, a tireless advocate for healthcare improvement, and a cherished colleague. His legacy will continue to inspire the African anaesthesia community for generations to come.
On behalf of the ARS Board, I extend our deepest condolences to Dr. Mavoungou’s family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time. We are united in mourning the loss of an extraordinary leader and friend.
May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his legacy continue to guide us in our shared mission to improve anaesthesia care across Africa.
Dr. Edwin Lugazia
President, African Regional Section (ARS)
World Federation of Societies of Anaesthesiologists
Professor Bill Owens
William Don Owens, 85, of St Louis, Missouri passed away on 3 January 2025. Following his anaesthesiology residency at Massachusetts General Hospital, he joined the faculty of Washington University in 1973, becoming full Professor in 1981 and serving as Chair of the Department of Anesthesiology from 1982 to 1992. Bill became an Emeritus Professor at Washington University in 2004.
Throughout his career, Bill championed anaesthesia education, research, and clinical outcomes through his national leadership roles with the American Society of Anesthesiology, American Board of Anesthesiology, Academy of Anesthesiology, and Foundation of Anesthesia Education and Research.
Bill was a committed supporter of WFSA’s work and chaired the WFSA Constitution Committee helping to streamline and strengthen WFSA’s by-laws and constitution.
My deep and heartfelt condolences to the ARS and the entire anesthesia team worldwide for the souls of Dr. Philippe Mavoungou and Dr. Bill Owen for their ultimate death. It is really so sad to hear such kind of news in this critical time.
We are continuing to loose our pioneer and senior colleagues in this world of injustice, wars and loss of social values.
I do extend my condolences to their families for more courage until we meet again.