Accra, June 4, 2025 — In a landmark achievement for Ghana and the continent, Dr. Delese Mimi Darko, Chief Executive Officer of Ghana’s Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), has been appointed as the inaugural Director-General of the African Medicines Agency (AMA).

Dr. Darko, a seasoned pharmacist with over 28 years of experience in food and health product regulation, has been instrumental in elevating Ghana’s FDA to international prominence. Under her leadership, the FDA achieved World Health Organization (WHO) Maturity Level 3 status, making Ghana one of the few African countries to reach this benchmark.

Her appointment was confirmed during the 2nd Ordinary Session of the Conference of the States Parties to the AMA Treaty, marking a significant step in Africa’s journey toward harmonized medical regulation.

The African Medicines Agency, established by the African Union, aims to enhance the regulation of medicines, traditional medicine, and medical devices across the continent. It seeks to address challenges such as counterfeit drugs and to improve access to quality medical products.

Dr. Darko’s extensive experience includes pioneering the regulation of clinical trials in Ghana and leading initiatives that positioned the FDA as a model for other African nations. Her leadership is expected to bring a wealth of expertise to the AMA, fostering collaboration among member states and strengthening the continent’s pharmaceutical sector.

Her appointment has been met with widespread acclaim, with stakeholders expressing confidence in her ability to steer the AMA toward achieving its mandate of ensuring the safety, efficacy, and quality of medical products in Africa. Dr. Darko’s new role signifies not only personal achievement but also a testament to Ghana’s commitment to advancing public health and regulatory excellence on the African continent.