Ghana to acquire DNA testing machine for Noguchi Memorial Institute

The Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, has announced that the government is in the final stages of procuring a DNA testing machine for the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, aimed at strengthening the country’s diagnostic, forensic, and research capabilities.

Speaking at the 2025 Annual Research Meeting (ARM) in Accra, Minister Akandoh revealed that the purchase order for the DNA testing equipment has already been placed and the procurement process is almost complete.

He said the machine is expected to arrive at the institute within the next few months.

The Minister explained that the decision was informed by lessons learned following the recent tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of two ministers.

At the time, biological samples had to be sent abroad for DNA analysis due to the absence of local capacity.

“It is no more a promise; it is something that is in action,” Minister Akandoh said, recalling that the incident highlighted the urgent need for Ghana to have its own DNA testing facility.

He added that, following the crash, His Excellency the President directed that a DNA testing machine be procured for the Noguchi Memorial Institute to ensure that the country would not have to rely on foreign laboratories in future emergencies.

“After the unfortunate helicopter crash, we realised that we had to depend on other countries for further investigations of biological samples.

On that basis, the President directed that DNA testing machines be procured for the Noguchi Memorial Institute,” he explained.

Minister Akandoh emphasised that the arrival of the new equipment will significantly enhance national research and diagnostic capabilities.

He stated that it will reduce reliance on laboratories abroad, equip Ghana’s scientific institutions to respond promptly to health and forensic emergencies, and support ongoing research in medical sciences.