Twenty-three outstanding pharmaceutical firms and professionals were honoured at the inaugural Pharma Excellence Awards organised by the Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana (PSGH) on April 11, 2025.
The ceremony celebrated excellence across various segments of the pharmaceutical industry and healthcare delivery.
The prestigious event brought together key players in the health sector, including healthcare professionals, industry leaders, government officials, and other stakeholders, to recognise exceptional contributions to pharmacy practice and pharmaceutical care in Ghana.
Delivering the keynote address, the Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah-Akandoh, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to promoting local pharmaceutical manufacturing to reduce Ghana’s reliance on imports.
He announced plans to establish a National Bio-Equivalence Centre and a Pharmaceutical Research Institute to enhance scientific research and quality assurance in the industry.
“These initiatives form part of our broader agenda to position Ghana as a pharmaceutical hub in Africa,” the Minister said, citing ongoing efforts to attract investment and reform regulatory frameworks.
He commended PSGH for launching the awards, describing it as a bold step toward strengthening healthcare delivery and inspiring innovation, leadership, and service across the pharmaceutical value chain.
This platform not only uplifts excellence but also strengthens our collective resolve to advance healthcare delivery in this country. Tonight, we honour distinction — in service, innovation, academic and clinical research, leadership, and in the shared mission to deliver quality healthcare to our people. The 23 diverse award categories reflect the richness and depth of pharmacy practice — from community and hospital pharmacy to regulation, academia, industry, and public health,” he said.
On her part, Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, said she views the pharmaceutical sector not only through the lens of public health, but also as a strategic pillar of the industrial transformation agenda.
“The COVID-19 pandemic taught us a powerful lesson about the importance of local pharmaceutical production and supply chain resilience. It reminded us that health security is indeed a matter of national security”, she pointed out.
Dr. Samuel Kow Donkoh, President of PSGH, described the event as a milestone in recognizing the often-unseen efforts of pharmaceutical professionals.
“This is a moment to celebrate those who work tirelessly to uphold quality, safety and efficacy in pharmaceutical products and services”.
He reiterated the Society’s commitment to upholding ethical standards, promoting professional development, and advocating for policies that empower local pharmaceutical enterprises.
Top honours went to Pharm. Dr. Kofi Nsiah-Poku, who won the CEO of the Year (Ernest Bediako Sampong Award), while Tobinco Pharmaceuticals Ltd. was named Pharmaceutical Company of the Year.
Other awardees included:
• Brand of the Year (OTC): Lufart
• Multinational Company of the Year: Viatris
• Excellence in Pharma – Manufacturing: Kinapharma Limited
• Hospital Pharmacy of the Year: The Bank Hospital Pharmacy
• Excellence in Pharma – Education (Prof. A.N. Tackie Award): School of Pharmacy, University of Ghana
