The Health Community of West Africa Association (HCOWAA) marked a significant milestone on May 12th, 2025, with the official launch of the HCOWAA Medical and Academic Exchange Committee. Held at the prestigious Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, specifically the Obstetrics and Gynecology Conference Hall.
This landmark event convened leading medical experts, researchers, and stakeholders to foster collaboration, knowledge sharing, and innovation in West African healthcare.
On Behalf of Professor Samuel Kaba Akoriyea – Director General, Ghana Health Service, Dr. Lawrence Ofori Boadu, Director of Clinical Service, Ghana Health Service gave a welcome address.
Dr. Yang Yongguang, a Chief Physician, and the captain of the 14th Batch of the Chinese Medical Team to Ghana pointed out China’s advancements in medical technology and proposed strengthening academic exchange activities and establishing a long-term cooperation mechanism to enhance China-Ghana medical cooperation during his speech.
“Let us work together to strengthen China-Ghana academic exchanges with a more open mind and more pragmatic actions, enhancing communication and cooperation between our medical personnel, and making greater contributions to the health and well-being of our people.” Dr. Yang Yongguang stated.
Mr. Yusuf Yakubu Tubor, the registrar of the Traditional Medicine Practice Council, underlined that bridging borders through academic collaboration and knowledge sharing can transform West Africa’s healthcare landscape by integrating traditional and modern medicine. By fostering collective action, promoting innovation, and respecting traditional wisdom and scientific rigor, West Africa can create a unified, accessible and scientifically robust healthcare ecosystem.
“Joining the Health Community of West Africa Association allows you to collaborate with leading experts, access cutting-edge innovations, influence regional health policies, and enhance your skills through workshops and academic exchanges, ultimately advancing healthcare in West Africa.” The Vice President of HCOWAA, Mr. Prince Opoku Dogbey said.
He further stated that, the committee aims to facilitate faculty and student exchanges, joint research and capacity building, promote a two-way street of knowledge sharing between West Africa and the world, and empower health professionals to become creators of knowledge and solutions.
The HCOWAA Medical and Academic Exchange Committee was officially inaugurated under the leadership of Dr. Lawrence Ofori Boadu, Director of Clinical Service, Ghana Health Service representing Professor Samuel Kaba Akoriyea – Director General, Ghana Health Service
The committee’s leadership structure comprises:
1. Executive Chairman – Dr. Yang Yongguang
2. Chairperson – Prof. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea
3. General Secretary – Believe Domor
4. Director for Education and Training – Dr. Mensah Kwei Benjamin
5. Academic Exchange Advisor – Prof. Samuel Debrah
6. Director for Traditional and Complementary Medicine – Dr. Yusuf Yakubu Tubor
The committee consists of a total of 40 esteemed members from China and Ghana, bringing together expertise and experience from various fields to drive medical and academic excellence in the region. The inauguration ceremony climaxed in the recital of a pledge by members, solidifying their commitment to the committee’s mission and objectives
The HCOWAA Medical and Academic Exchange Committee’s launch event concluded with a thought-provoking panel discussion on the committee’s objectives and promoting academic and medical collaboration in West Africa, followed by a networking session that facilitated meaningful connections among attendees.
As the Health Community of West Africa Association continues to foster collaboration among medical professionals and institutions, we remain committed to our mission of improving healthcare outcomes in the region. Through knowledge sharing, innovation, and partnership, we strive to create a healthier West Africa.
