University of Ghana Leads Africa Food Systems Initiative

The University of Ghana will lead a crucial new effort to improve food systems across Africa. The Africa Regional Collaborative for Agriculture, Nutrition and Health (ANH-ARC) launched in Accra. It positions the University as a key centre for this continent-wide project. The initiative aims to transform how food is produced. It also seeks to improve diets and tackle health problems linked to poor nutrition.

This new collaboration is the African part of a global network called the ANH Academy Science-Policy Platform. The ANH-ARC is guided by three main African institutions. These are the University of Ghana, the Policy Studies Institute in Ethiopia, and Stellenbosch University in South Africa. The University of Ghana will host its main office, known as the Secretariat. This means Ghana will be at the forefront of connecting research with real-world decisions about food.

For years, agriculture has been vital to many African economies. However, many people still struggle to afford healthy food. This is happening while countries face rising food prices. Climate change and changing living patterns also add to the problem. Millions suffer from different forms of malnutrition. Professor Felix Asante, Pro Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ghana, stated that agriculture, nutrition, and health are closely linked. He noted that policies and actions often happen separately. The ANH-ARC aims to fix this disconnect. It will ensure that scientific findings inform practical decisions that benefit people’s health and livelihoods.

“The University of Ghana sees this initiative as aligned with our mission not only to generate knowledge, but to ensure that knowledge serves society,” said Professor Felix Asante. He added that the University is proud to partner with institutions in Ethiopia and South Africa. This collaboration shows strong African leadership. It signals a shared goal for solutions that fit local needs. Professor Amos Laar, from the University of Ghana, is the main researcher and first director of ANH-ARC. He highlighted that Africa’s food systems are often split apart. This reduces their ability to fight malnutrition and diet-related illnesses. He called for unified, evidence-based approaches to creating policies.

The launch event brought together experts from universities, governments, community groups, and international organizations. Attendees came from countries like the UK, Canada, Sweden, and several African nations. They discussed practical steps to change food systems on the continent. Key needs identified were better cooperation, making nutritious food more affordable, and policies that encourage healthier eating habits. The University of Ghana’s Strategic Plan for 2024–2029 also supports this initiative. It emphasizes research, partnerships, and policy engagement to solve development issues.

By hosting the ANH-ARC, the University of Ghana is boosting Ghana's influence in shaping Africa's food agenda. A central message from the launch is that transforming food systems needs ongoing teamwork. It requires bold ideas and a firm dedication to turning knowledge into action. The University will use its research skills and partnerships to support policy decisions. This will help create lasting improvements across Africa. The project also receives support from the Gates Foundation and the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.