Dr Amaning Danquah to launch Ghana-focused pharmacy books to strengthen standards, patient safety
Former Registrar of the Pharmacy Council of Ghana, Dr Daniel Amaning Danquah, says his six new publications aim to fill a longstanding gap in Ghana’s pharmaceutical sector, where practitioners have relied heavily on foreign materials that do not reflect local laws, health priorities, or operational realities.
The books provide Ghana-specific guidance on regulatory compliance, supply chain practices, SOP development, and ethical patient care.
In an interview ahead of the official launch on Thursday, December 4, in Accra, Dr Danquah explained that the resources are designed for pharmacists, OTCMS operators, students, warehouses, wholesalers, health institutions, and regulatory bodies.
"Over the years, I have observed that many pharmacists, OTCMS practitioners, students, and even some institutions rely heavily on foreign literature, which often fails to reflect our regulatory frameworks, disease profiles, or operational challenges. Ghana needed authoritative, practical, locally relevant academic resources."
"These six books are my contribution toward strengthening professionalism, regulatory compliance, and public health outcomes across the medicines value chain," he said.
He said they offer practical templates, checklists, legal context, and standardised procedures to improve inspection readiness, minimise errors, and strengthen the medicines value chain.
"They provide Ghana-specific guidance. For example, our laws — Act 851 and Act 857 — are not covered in international texts. Our supply chain realities, patient access challenges, OTCMS operations, and public health priorities are unique."
"These books bring policy and practice together. They simplify regulatory requirements, standardise SOPs, support academic training, and make it easier for practitioners to deliver safe and ethical care," he explained.
He hopes the publications will enhance patient safety, support Universal Health Coverage efforts, and reinforce professional competence.
The upcoming national launch will bring together key stakeholders to highlight the importance of quality medicines and strong regulatory systems.
"I hope that they will enhance patient safety, minimise medication errors, strengthen regulatory compliance, and foster excellence in practice. A country cannot achieve Universal Health Coverage without a strong pharmaceutical foundation. These books support that foundation."
Dr Danquah concludes by reminding practitioners that pharmacy is a responsibility to protect patients and uphold public health through continuous learning.
"Pharmacy is not just about selling medicines. It is a responsibility to protect patients, safeguard public health, and uphold the law. Continuous learning is essential. These books are tools — but it is professionals who must use them to serve the nation," he added.
