PAMCA-Ghana Hosts inaugural Conference in Accra, championing vector control efforts

From May 12 to 14, 2025, the Pan African Mosquito Control Association – Ghana Chapter (PAMCA-GH) held its maiden conference at the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra. This landmark event marked a significant step forward in Ghana’s efforts to combat mosquito-borne and other vector-borne diseases.

Under the theme “Harnessing efforts from academia, research, public, and private institutions for effective vector control in Ghana,” the conference brought together researchers, academics, policymakers, private sector players, and NGOs, all aligned in a shared mission to eliminate vector-borne diseases through innovation, partnership, and knowledge exchange.

In his welcome address, the President of PAMCA-GH shared his excitement over the diverse and high-caliber participants at the event. He encouraged attendees to network, exchange ideas, and explore collaborations that could accelerate Ghana’s efforts in vector-borne disease control. He underscored PAMCA-GH’s mission to promote research, foster innovation, and contribute to the elimination of vector-borne diseases in Ghana and Africa.

In her opening remarks, Dr. Kezia Malm, Programme Manager of the National Malaria Elimination Programme (NMEP), Ghana, was happy to support the conference and PAMCA-GH’s work. She emphasized that NMEP’s mandate had recently expanded to include other vector-borne diseases beyond malaria, many of which, like dengue fever, still lack structured national programmes. Dr. Malm made an urgent call to focus on mosquito-borne diseases, which continue to pose a major threat across Africa, and lauded PAMCA-GH for creating a platform for learning, collaboration, and engagement. She also reaffirmed the Ghana Health Service’s commitment to support PAMCA-GH, especially in capacity building.

A Call for Holistic Approaches to Vector Control

The keynote address was delivered by Prof. Kodwo Ansah Koram, a seasoned epidemiologist and lecturer at the School of Public Health, University of Ghana. Prof. Koram emphasized the global and local burden of vector-borne diseases (VBDs), which account for nearly 20% of all communicable diseases and result in an estimated 700,000 deaths annually. He noted that diseases such as malaria, Chagas disease, lymphatic filariasis, and schistosomiasis disproportionately affect the poor and marginalized, who often lack access to essential prevention and treatment tools.

Prof. Koram highlighted the importance of viewing VBDs through the epidemiologic triad—the interaction of the agent (pathogen), host (susceptible population), and environment. He cautioned against narrowly focusing on just the pathogen or vector, while ignoring environmental drivers of transmission. Instead, he advocated for a holistic, integrated approach to achieve not just disease control, but eventual elimination.

A United Front Against Vector-Borne Diseases

The conference featured many presentations showcasing research across multiple themes, including mosquito surveillance, tick-borne diseases, bed bugs, and disease modeling. There were 24 standard presentations and 6 fast-paced “turbo talks” from students.

These sessions sparked vibrant discussions, deepening understanding of emerging challenges and opportunities in the fight against vector-borne diseases.

As the conference closed, the PAMCA-GH President expressed his appreciation to all participants for being part of the conference. He reiterated the chapter’s commitment to sustain the momentum generated over the three days and build on partnerships and ideas shared.

The successful maiden conference marks a promising future for PAMCA-GH and Ghana’s broader vector control landscape. With continued collaboration, innovation, and evidence-based approaches, the goal of a Ghana free from mosquito-borne and other vector-borne diseases is steadily within reach.