The idea of a regional college of pathology is probably as old as the Association of Pathologists of East, Central and Southern Africa (APECSA), which was started in 1991 the body that finally midwifed the birth of the College of Pathologists of East, Central and Southern A frica (COPECSA).

From the APECSA 2004 AGM in Kampala, during the APECSA Presidency of Prof. Ephata Kaaya, and subsequently  APECSA 2006 AGM in Arusha under the APECSA Presidency of Dr. Jamila Rajab, COPECSA was established in 2012  with a constitution, bylaws and formation of the first Council led by the Executive Committee under the Presidency of Prof Ephata Kaaya

The purpose of COPECSA is to promote excellence in the practice of pathology as well as be responsible for maintaining standards through training, examinations and professional development for the benefit of patients and the improved understanding of disease throughout the world.

COPECSA believes in old-fashioned values paired with creativity and innovation by upholding traditional values that are devoted to excellence and grounded in professionalism, integrity, accountability, equity, and ethical practice.