Nana Kwadwo Obiri Gains International Recognition Through Nature Mental Health Publication

Ghana’s traditional medicine sector has recorded a significant international milestone following the publication of a scholarly article in Nature Mental Health, a leading global scientific journal.

The publication, titled “Building Evidence-Based Knowledge in Traditional Medicine Provides an Opportunity for Neuroscientists and Traditional Medical Practitioners,” features Okogyeabibiduro Nana Kwadwo Obiri as one of its four co-authors.

Nana Kwadwo Obiri, who serves as the General Secretary of the Ghana Federation of Traditional Medicine Practitioners Associations (GHAFTRAM), contributed to the international research effort alongside scholars and practitioners from Stony Brook University in the United States, Farmingdale State College in the United States, the University of Ghana, and GHAFTRAM.

The article advocates stronger collaboration between scientists and traditional medical practitioners, particularly through scientific research, evidence generation, ethical partnerships and mutual respect.

According to the publication, traditional medicine can be strengthened when indigenous practitioners and scientific researchers work together to document knowledge, generate evidence and explore opportunities for improving healthcare.

Ghana is highlighted as an important example of how traditional medical practitioners can collaborate with academic and scientific institutions to contribute to healthcare development, including in mental health and community-based care.

A notable aspect of the publication is the inclusion of Nana Kwadwo Obiri as a practising Ghanaian traditional medical practitioner.

He is described as the only practising Ghanaian traditional medical practitioner among the four co-authors, giving traditional practitioners a direct voice in an international scientific discussion on the future of traditional medicine.

The publication notes that having a GHAFTRAM leader and practising traditional healer among the authors demonstrates a commitment to equitable knowledge production between scientists and traditional medicine practitioners.

Over the years, Nana Kwadwo Obiri has been involved in efforts to advance the development and professionalisation of African traditional medicine.

His advocacy has focused on the documentation and scientific validation of African Traditional Medicine, as well as stronger collaboration between traditional practitioners, universities and research institutions.

He has also championed higher professional and ethical standards within Ghana’s traditional medicine sector, increased national and international recognition for indigenous medical knowledge, and the development of evidence-based policies to strengthen the role of traditional medicine within Ghana’s healthcare system.

His work extends beyond clinical practice to areas including research, policy development, professional advocacy, education and public awareness.

These efforts have positioned him as one of the voices advocating for the modernisation and scientific advancement of traditional medicine in Ghana.

The latest publication is being regarded as further recognition of the contribution Ghanaian traditional medicine practitioners can make to global scientific research.

It demonstrates that practitioners of traditional medicine can participate not only as custodians of indigenous knowledge but also as contributors to research and international discussions on healthcare innovation.

For Nana Kwadwo Obiri, the publication also represents an opportunity to strengthen the connection between traditional knowledge and modern scientific inquiry, while encouraging greater respect for African indigenous medical practices.

Commenting on the achievement, Nana Kwadwo Obiri said the publication goes beyond personal recognition and represents an acknowledgement of the value of Ghana’s traditional medical practitioners.

“This publication is not only a personal achievement but also a recognition of the immense value of Ghana’s traditional medical practitioners. It demonstrates that our indigenous knowledge deserves a place in global scientific research and healthcare innovation.”

The publication in Nature Mental Health therefore marks a significant moment for Ghana’s traditional medicine sector, particularly as the country continues to pursue greater integration of evidence-based approaches, research and professional standards in healthcare.

Issued by: Office of Okogyeabibiduro Nana Kwadwo Obiri
Traditional Medical Practitioner | Research Advocate | General Secretary, GHAFTRAM