The idea to establish the Society for Medicinal Plants and Economic Development (SOMPED) was muted by the Founder, Emeritus Professor Anthony Jide Afolayan, in January 2016.The idea was put forward to the members of his research group including those that have completed their project and gone back to their respective stations. The picture shows the first meeting of the founding members of SOMPED in February 2016. From left is Prof Anthony Afolayan, Dr Olubunmi Wintola, Dr Callistus Bvenura and Dr Gloria Otunola.