The Ministry of Health has stepped its efforts to develop a robust, research-driven healthcare system, leveraging the Annual Conference on Pharmacoepidemiology in Africa to promote changes and strengthen collaborations to address the rising burden of chronic diseases.
The International Society for Pharmacoepidemiology (ISPE) hosted the conference from April 20-22, 2026, bringing together worldwide professionals, policymakers, and academics to confront Africa’s increasing health concerns.
Prof. Dr Grace Ayensu-Danquah, Deputy Minister for Health, delivered the keynote lecture, emphasising the continent’s shift from infectious diseases to a growing burden of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs).
She emphasised the importance of evidence-based approaches that are consistent with World Health Organization frameworks, such as SDG Target 3.4 and the WHO PEN-Plus Strategy.
She underlined significant government initiatives, including a 66% increase in NHIS funding to GH¢9.8 billion by 2025 and the launch of the Ghana Medical Trust Fund (MahamaCares) to facilitate the treatment of high-cost chronic diseases.
These approaches seek to increase access, lower out-of-pocket costs, and improve long-term care.
The Hon. Deputy Minister emphasised the crucial significance of research, pharmacovigilance, and health data systems in influencing effective policy, as well as the need of public-private partnerships in driving innovation and fair healthcare delivery.
Ursula Kirchmayer, President of ISPE, described the meeting as an important forum for scientific interchange and collaboration.
She also emphasised the importance of investing in young researchers to ensure continued advancement in pharmacoepidemiology.
The conference is expected to foster partnerships and promote research and policy development throughout Africa.
Source: newsthemegh.com