Executive summary
This report highlights the achievements, progress and impact of the Africa Interdisciplinary Research Institute (AfIRI) over the past year, and our commitment to advancing knowledge and innovation in research. We share our projects, successes, challenges and lessons learned, and look forward to continuing our mission to support researchers in undertaking, facilitating, coordinating and disseminating innovative, cutting-edge Africa-related research.
The findings and insights in this report are intended to inform stakeholders and support decisions about the institute’s progress. Since 2021, AfIRI has grown steadily in project coordination and execution, skilled personnel and effective project management. The institute has recorded a significant number of successful projects and remains actively involved in ongoing work.
Achievements and impact
Grant awards for tertiary students
The institute provided grant awards to students from prominent universities in Ghana, including the University of Ghana, Cape Coast University, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology and University of Development Studies. These grants were instrumental in helping students complete their thesis and dissertation projects.
Beyond financial support, the awards encouraged students to explore their topics more deeply, building critical thinking and academic curiosity. By reaching students across multiple universities, the institute promoted cross-institutional collaboration and knowledge sharing, and empowered students to pursue innovative ideas, engage in scholarly discussion and contribute to the academic community. Grant awardees have attested to the positive impact of the grants on the completion of their theses.
Books and study materials for nursing institutions
Working with Push Aid Africa, the institute donated books and study materials to nursing institutions in Ghana, addressing a lack of essential educational resources. The donation improved the quality of education and training for nursing students, supporting their academic performance and preparing them for careers in healthcare.
The collaboration reflects AfIRI’s commitment to addressing educational disparities and promoting equitable access to learning resources, particularly in nursing schools facing resource challenges.
Growth in staff strength
The institute’s staff grew significantly, reflecting organizational expansion and greater capacity for interdisciplinary research and academic activities. This growth strengthened research capabilities, academic offerings and administrative support, leading to greater efficiency and productivity.
By recruiting talented people across disciplines, AfIRI has diversified its research, offered more specialized expertise, and enhanced its support for students, researchers and collaborators.
Increased collaboration with researchers
The institute worked with more researchers to implement study projects, promoting interdisciplinary initiatives and knowledge sharing. These collaborations produced impactful projects, innovative outcomes and wider dissemination of findings.
Working with researchers from diverse backgrounds and institutions has strengthened AfIRI’s research portfolio and encouraged interdisciplinary dialogue. Partnerships with external stakeholders have allowed the institute to draw on collective expertise, resources and networks to address complex research challenges.
Research projects
During the 2024 fiscal year, AfIRI undertook projects across several regions of Ghana. These are some of the ongoing projects and the milestones they reached.
COPE Study
Effectiveness and Acceptability of Two Models of an Insertable Vaginal Cup for Non-Surgical Management of Obstetric Fistula in Ghana: A Hybrid Type I Randomized Crossover Trial
The study examines the effectiveness, comparative effectiveness and acceptability of two vaginal menstrual cup models (cup and cup+) as a temporizing alternative for managing urinary leakage from vesico-vaginal fistula in clinical and community settings, and quantifies non-surgical fistula management costs. Study sites are in the Central and Northern Regions of Ghana.
WI Study
Identifying the Mechanisms of Water Insecurity on HIV Treatment Outcomes
This study seeks to understand how water insecurity affects HIV treatment outcomes in Ghana. By exploring climate-related factors and developing interventions, it aims to improve the situation for people living with HIV (PLWH) and to guide program integration and intervention development in sub-Saharan Africa. It also examines participants’ adherence to antiretroviral medication.
The study officially began in June 2024 and runs in phases: baseline data collection, followed by follow-up data collection at three-month intervals. Baseline data was collected between October and November from 503 participants across three regions (Greater Accra, Eastern and Upper East) at health facilities including:
- Kaneshie Polyclinic
- Madina Polyclinic
- Weija Gbawa Municipal Hospital
- Ashaiman Polyclinic
- Somanya Polyclinic
- Atua Government Hospital
- Akuse Government Hospital
- War Memorial Hospital
- Paga District Hospital
- Bongo District Hospital
At the time of this report, baseline results were being analysed, with follow-up data collection to begin from January 2025.
We Are Together (WAT)
Development and testing of an intervention to reduce HIV-related stigma among pregnant and postpartum women
The WAT project is being conducted in the Greater Accra and Eastern regions to understand the stigma pregnant and postpartum women face and how they are treated in the community. Work is under way at Ashaiman, Madina and Kaneshie polyclinics, with Eastern region facilities to be engaged from 2025. The study aims to interview 30 to 35 pregnant and postpartum women living with HIV and 20 health workers.
Challenges and lessons learned
The institute faced a range of challenges affecting its effectiveness, efficiency and overall success. Each taught us lessons and gave us the opportunity to assess our performance and identify areas that need attention.
Funding and resources
AfIRI relies largely on grants, which can be unpredictable and competitive. Delays in the release of funds often stall projects and slow their execution. Despite limited funding sources, the institute remains committed to optimizing resource allocation, exploring diverse funding opportunities and managing its finances more efficiently.
Competition for grants
Securing research grants in a competitive landscape is a significant challenge. The institute has responded by aligning its research priorities with funding opportunities, demonstrating the impact of its work, and fostering strategic partnerships that show the societal relevance of its research.
Regulatory compliance and reporting
Navigating regulatory requirements, compliance standards and reporting obligations is complex. AfIRI upholds transparency, accountability and ethical research practices through robust compliance measures and rigorous oversight. However, the many bureaucratic processes involved in acquiring clearance and approvals for projects remain a significant source of frustration.
Technology and infrastructure
As a not-for-profit with financial constraints, the institute finds it challenging to invest in technology infrastructure, research equipment and data management systems. By prioritizing strategic investments, using cost-effective solutions and promoting digital literacy and innovation, AfIRI aims to strengthen its research capabilities in an increasingly digitized landscape.
Future plans
We have identified key areas for attention to address these challenges and promote sustainable success.
A comprehensive five-year research plan
The institute is committed to a five-year strategic plan that aligns projects with strategic goals, helping researchers prioritize tasks, track progress and increase productivity. It will cover grant writing, research execution, publication strategies, teaching commitments and community service.
Collaboration and knowledge exchange
AfIRI will organize flagship events that bring together experts from diverse fields to share findings, spark ideas and encourage interdisciplinary collaboration.
Sustainable funding streams
AfIRI will pursue diverse funding sources, including grants, contracts and philanthropic donations, to sustain and expand its research, enhance infrastructure, launch new projects and initiatives, and contribute to scientific knowledge and societal well-being.
Appreciation and acknowledgements
We extend our heartfelt appreciation to everyone who has contributed to our journey of academic excellence, research innovation and societal impact. Our mission is advanced through the collective efforts and collaborative spirit of our stakeholders, partners, researchers, staff and community advocates.
To our researchers: your passion for discovery, curiosity and collaboration have propelled our work forward and enriched our academic community.
To our funding partners, donors and supporters: your generosity and belief in our mission provide the essential resources that sustain our research and drive innovation.
To our staff, administrative teams and collaborators: your dedication and professionalism behind the scenes keep the institute running and make our shared vision possible.
To the broader academic community, industry partners, government agencies and community stakeholders: your engagement and expertise have fostered interdisciplinary collaboration and helped translate research into tangible solutions that benefit society.
We look to the future with optimism and determination. Thank you for being part of our journey. Together, we will continue to pursue knowledge, drive innovation and make a positive impact in the academic and research landscape.