Akandoh calls for research-driven approach to tackling non-communicable diseases

Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh has called for greater investment in research that directly informs Ghana’s response to non-communicable diseases (NCDs), saying academic findings must translate into measurable improvements in healthcare delivery.

He said research institutions and health professionals must prioritise evidence that can shape policy decisions, strengthen disease prevention and improve access to treatment.

“Research must not end in publications; it must translate into practical interventions that improve health outcomes and strengthen our healthcare system,” he said.

The minister made the remarks in a keynote address delivered on his behalf by the Ministry of Health’s Chief Director, Desmond Boateng, at the opening of the second National NCD Research Conference 2026 in Accra.

He disclosed that NCDs account for nearly half of all deaths in Ghana, with cardiovascular conditions, including heart disease and stroke, contributing significantly to the country’s disease burden.

He also raised concerns about the increasing impact of these conditions on people in their productive years, stressing the need for stronger prevention, early diagnosis and treatment strategies.

Mr Akandoh said research should provide government with the evidence needed to evaluate existing health interventions, identify shortcomings in healthcare delivery and determine areas requiring additional investment.

He pointed to the Free Primary Healthcare initiative, the National Health Insurance Scheme and the Ghana Medical Trust Fund as complementary government interventions that could support efforts to reduce the burden of NCDs.

The minister’s call comes as stakeholders seek to strengthen the integration of NCD prevention and management into Ghana’s primary healthcare system.

Project Manager of the AYA Integrated Healthcare Initiative, Julliette Edzeame, also underscored the importance of international cooperation in improving healthcare delivery.

She highlighted Ghana’s longstanding partnership with Germany through GIZ Ghana, particularly in health systems strengthening, healthcare financing and workforce development.

The conference is being held under the theme, “Accelerating Ghana’s NCD Research Agenda towards Attaining Primary Healthcare Goals.”

The two-day event, organised by the Ministry of Health in collaboration with the AYA Integrated Healthcare Initiative, has brought together researchers, academics, healthcare professionals, policymakers and development partners.

Participants are discussing the country’s NCD burden, healthcare financing, governance and ways to incorporate research into primary healthcare delivery.

Selected abstract presenters will have the opportunity to apply for competitive travel grants to present their work at an international conference outside Ghana in 2027.