The understanding of the physico-chemical properties of materials inevitably involves the analysis of their structural organisations, often determined by X-ray diffraction and scattering. This aspect concerns different types of functional materials: natural or heritage materials, pharmaceutical molecules or macromolecules, agro-food, photovoltaic and magnetic materials, nanomaterials for new technologies, etc. In this context, Crystallography occupies a central place and contribute to the development of several disciplinary sectors such as: Physics, Material Science, Chemistry and Biochemistry, Molecular biology and Mineralogy. These disciplines are closely connected to industry, health, engineering and environment, education and training and the harnessing of new technologies essential for the economic development of our countries or in the societal needs such as health, Energy, environment or emerging technologies. Thus, Crystallography plays a unifying role which should inspire us to unite our efforts to respond effectively to the various emerging expectations as well as to societal challenges in Africa. Let's take advantage of this event to establish real and effective partnerships between our academic and research institutions, share our expertise and our complementary knowledge, but why not involve our industrial partners to spur innovation in Africa and even think about African mutualized large instrumental facilities…