Accra: The Ministry of Health has called for innovation, collaboration, and sustained investment in Ghana's regulatory systems to strengthen public health protection and support local industry. Mr. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, Minister of Health, emphasized that regulatory innovation must enhance efficiency and responsiveness without compromising public safety. His remarks were delivered by Mr. Desmond Boateng, Chief Director of the Ministry, at the 2026 Annual Stakeholders' Meeting of the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) in Accra, held under the theme: 'Regulatory Excellence through Innovation, Collaboration and Sustained Growth.'
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Akandoh highlighted the critical role of the FDA in safeguarding public health by ensuring the safety and quality of food, medicines, cosmetics, and other regulated products. He underscored the industry's reliance on the Authority for clear and predictable regulatory processes, which are vital for maintaining public confidence and supporting Ghana's development. He called upon stakeholders to embrace digitalisation, data-driven regulation, modern laboratory systems, and risk-based approaches, emphasizing the need for stronger collaboration among various sectors.
Mr. Akandoh stressed the importance of sustained investment in resources to enable the FDA to meet emerging regulatory demands. Professor Kwabena Frimpong-Manso Opuni, Chief Executive Officer of the FDA, affirmed the Authority's commitment to expedited regulatory decisions and fostering an informed society. He noted the digitalisation of key operations through the Ghana FDA Integrated Regulatory Management System (GFIRMS) and the introduction of new systems for human resources, audit, and finance to enhance customer service.
Prof. Opuni shared updates on the FDA's expansion efforts, including the opening of new regional offices and plans to establish additional district offices in collaboration with the Ghana Enterprises Agency. He mentioned the Authority's ongoing pursuit of higher WHO Maturity Level status and its achievements in maintaining ISO certifications. Additionally, the FDA has strengthened its food safety surveillance and risk-based inspections, expanded monitoring, and introduced round-the-clock regulatory services.
The FDA has become a Regional Centre of Regulatory Excellence in Africa, supporting technical exchanges and partnerships with development partners. Projects with German Cooperation and the European Union include a training hub, data centre, and a state-of-the-art vaccines laboratory. Prof. Opuni reiterated the importance of sustainable financing, staff retention, and strong partnerships for the Authority's long-term success.
He urged stakeholders to collaborate with the FDA, offer constructive feedback, and share solutions to enhance public health protection, industry support, and Ghana's development.