The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening laboratory capacity and biomedical research networks across Africa. Takayuki Uchiyama, JICA Ghana's Chief Representative, made this declaration at the 2026 Third Country Training Programme. This initiative, a partnership with the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR), the World Health Organisation (WHO), and other key partners, aims to bolster health security.
Eight healthcare professionals from Ghana, Liberia, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Togo, and Zambia participated in the recent blended eight-week course. The training included an online phase from April 20 to May 15, 2026, followed by an in-person practical phase. This hands-on component took place at NMIMR’s Advanced Research Laboratories from June 1 to June 26, 2026. Participants received specialized training in Parasitology, Bacteriology, Virology, Biosafety, Biosecurity, and Laboratory Quality Management Systems.
This program is a crucial part of Ghana's broader strategy to become a regional hub for medical research and public health. Ghana has consistently invested in institutions like NMIMR, positioning itself as a leader in health security. The collaboration with international partners like JICA and WHO enhances Ghana's capacity to address emerging health threats. This aligns with the nation's goal of improving healthcare infrastructure and expertise across West Africa.
The Third Country Training Programme began in 2019, directly responding to the devastating West Africa Ebola outbreak. Since its inception, JICA and NMIMR have successfully trained 80 biomedical scientists from various African countries. This extensive training has significantly improved diagnostic capabilities, disease surveillance, and regional outbreak response mechanisms. Professor Dorothy Yeboah-Manu, Director of NMIMR, praised the partnership, noting its evolution into a flagship initiative. It now addresses critical health challenges such as COVID-19, Marburg, Lassa fever, and Mpox.
Dr. Sally-Anne Ohene, representing the World Health Organisation, emphasized the critical need for robust laboratory systems. She highlighted that continuous training, mentorship, and collaboration are essential for the timely detection and effective response to public health emergencies. Mr. Takuma Teratani, First Secretary at the Embassy of Japan, reiterated Japan’s unwavering support for strengthening laboratory and surveillance capacity across the African continent. This ongoing commitment underscores the importance of international cooperation in global health.
The successful completion of this year’s training course further solidifies the long-standing partnership between JICA and NMIMR. This collaboration reflects a shared vision of advancing health security through knowledge exchange, skills development, and regional cooperation. The continued investment in human capital and infrastructure will be vital for Africa's resilience against future pandemics. Decision-makers will closely monitor the impact of these trained professionals on public health outcomes across the region.