Ghana promotes research-driven healthcare at ISPE Africa conference

The Ministry of Health, Ghana, has highlighted efforts to strengthen a research-driven healthcare system at the ISPE Africa Conference held from April 20–22, 2026.

The conference, organised by the International Society for Pharmacoepidemiology, brought together global experts, policymakers, and researchers to address Africa’s evolving health challenges.

Deputy Minister for Health, Grace Ayensu-Danquah, said the continent is experiencing a shift from infectious diseases to a growing burden of non-communicable diseases.

She called for evidence-based responses aligned with World Health Organisation frameworks, including SDG Target 3.4 and the WHO PEN-Plus strategy.

She outlined reforms, including a 66 per cent increase in NHIS funding to GH¢9.8 billion in 2025 and the introduction of the Ghana Medical Trust Fund (MahamaCares) to support treatment of high-cost chronic conditions.

She also emphasised the role of research, pharmacovigilance, health data systems, and public–private partnerships in improving healthcare delivery.

ISPE President, Ursula Kirchmayer, said the conference provides a platform for scientific collaboration and stressed the need to invest in young researchers.