The first Professor of Medical Laboratory Sciences and the Director of the West African Genetic Medicine Centre (WAGMC) at the University of Ghana, Prof. Solomon Fiifi Ofori-Acquah delivered his inaugural lecture on the topic, “A Journey with Sickle Cell Disease, around the World and a Return Home to Help Find a Cure.” The lecture was a culmination of years of dedication and research by the former Dean of the School of Biomedical and Allied Health Sciences.
Prof. S. Fiifi Ofori-Acquah during his inaugural speech – Photo credit: University of Ghana
During the lecture, Prof. Ofori-Acquah spoke on the various aspects of commitment shown by researchers and development partners in the fight against Sickle Cell Disease. He highlighted the significant strides made, including the introduction of Hydroxyurea, a vital treatment for sickle cell, through public-private partnerships with government support. Because of these collaborations, Hydroxyurea is now included in the Ministry of Health’s essential drugs list and readily available to patients across the country.
Prof. Ofori-Acquah acknowledged the establishment of specialized centers throughout Ghana, where the drug is administered by trained medical personnel and patients receive proper monitoring. These centers have greatly improved the quality of care for individuals with sickle cell disease, enhancing their overall well-being and management of the condition.
Despite the progress made over the last decade, Prof. Ofori-Acquah stressed the necessity for a national program to screen for Sickle Cell Disease. He expressed that out of every 100 newborn babies, two were likely to be born with sickle cell disease. Screening however, would enable early identification and intervention, ultimately leading to better outcomes for affected individuals. His call to action resonated deeply with the audience, emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive approach to tackling this genetic disorder in Ghana. Chair for the occasion, Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, Vice-Chancellor of the University commended Prof. Ofori-Acquah for his contributions to science.
Prof. Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, Vice-Chancellor, University of Ghana- Photo credit: University of Ghana
Prof. Ofori-Acquah’s dedication to researching Sickle Cell Disease and his efforts to improve the lives of patients were evident throughout his presentation. His passion and expertise were evident, and that left the audience with a renewed sense of purpose in combating Sickle Cell Disease.
Group Picture with Vice-Chancellor and Pro-Vice Chancellor and some Senior Faculty at UG- Photo credit: University of Ghana
Traditional ruler of the Sagnarigu Traditional Area, Naa Yakubu Abdulai and his wife at the lecture- Photo credit: University of Ghana
The inaugural lecture was attended by the UG community, Deans and Directors, former University officials, traditional rulers, dignitaries from the health and education sector, some high school students and the general public. There were cultural performances by The Ghana Dance Ensemble as well as seperewa appellation. The inaugural lecture marked a significant milestone in the pursuit of finding a cure for Sickle Cell Disease. His research, along with the support of government and development partners, is shaping the landscape of treatment and care for individuals living with this condition in Ghana. Through continued collaboration and a national screening program, Prof. Ofori-Acquah’s vision of a future without Sickle Cell Disease moves closer to reality.
A week-long exhibition of his scholarly works was held at the Balme Library prior to the inaugural lecture. The exhibition focused on his research interests on six distinct themes including genomics, vascular biology, breast cancer and Sickle Cell Disease and other fields of study.
