“…it enriches the global collaboration of people living with and affected by MS with energy, vision, and perspectives from the Southern tip of Africa”
Multiple sclerosis
MSSA (Multiple Sclerosis South Africa) Attains Historic Recognition from MS International Federation (MSIF) and Secures Position in CEO Advisory Group.
South Africa – The Multiple Sclerosis Society of South Africa (MSSA) is thrilled to announce a groundbreaking achievement in gaining international recognition from the esteemed MS International Federation (MSIF). As Director of MSSA, [Non Smit] is now a member of the MSIF CEO Advisory Group, chaired by Ava Battles, CEO of MS Ireland.
MSSA are honoured to have the support of Mr. Peer Baneke, CEO of MSIF, who states, “On behalf of all members of MSIF I wish the MSSA a warm welcome. The entry of the MSSA in the global MS movement is an important development for MSIF as well as for the MSSA. For MSIF it enriches the global collaboration of people living with and affected by MS with energy, vision, and perspectives from the Southern tip of Africa. For the MSSA it provides a pool of likeminded organisations to compare notes, develop common projects and gain the benefits for people living with MS in South Africa.” Since initiating engagement with MSIF in 2010 to gain membership, MSSA has pursued its commitment to advancing the cause of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) on the global stage. This dedication has resulted in MSSA becoming Associated Members with MSIF, the largest and sole international federation encompassing all MS organisations around the world under its umbrella.
The CEO Advisory Group, a crucial entity within the MSIF framework, has played a pivotal role in advising the MSIF Board, shaping the movement’s projects, policies, and programs. It serves as a dynamic platform for sharing experiences, ideas, and best practices among international colleagues.
Following a Governance Review conducted by MSIF in 2023, the CEO Advisory Group is set to undergo a significant transition in 2024. While retaining its pivotal role, the group will assume a new and equally important function by advising, informing, engaging with, and being consulted by the MSIF CEO and secretariat. The collaborative space will persist, offering CEOs an avenue to learn from and share insights with one another.
This recognition and inclusion underscore MSSA’s commitment to making a positive impact in the global MS community. For further information or media inquiries, please contact:
MSSA Non Smit – non@multiplesclerosis.co.za
About MSSA:
The Multiple Sclerosis Society of South Africa (MSSA) has been actively engaged in advocating for those affected by Multiple Sclerosis since 1966. MSSA has dedicated its efforts to making a meaningful impact on a global scale.
Multiple Sclerosis South Africa
Multiple Sclerosis affects more than 2.8 million people worldwide
- MS is an inflammatory demyelinating condition caused by damage to myelin – a fatty material that insulates nerves, acting much like the covering of an electric wire.
- Resulting in a wide range of symptoms like walking difficulties, vision problems, numbness, pain, dizziness & vertigo, spasticity, tremors, headaches, and many more.
- Many symptoms can be managed and treated.
- Most people are diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 50, although onset may be earlier.
- It is 2-3 times more common women than in men.
- It is not directly hereditary, although genetic susceptibility plays a part in its development.
- It is one of the most common diseases of the central nervous system in young adults for which there is no cure at present.
- It is not contagious or infectious.
- MS affects more than 2.8 million people worldwide.
- It is more commonly found in countries further from the equator.
- Statistics for SA are believed to be between 3000 to 5000 pwMS (people with MS).