Executive summary
This report highlights the achievements, progress and impact of the Africa Interdisciplinary Research Institute (AfIRI) over the past year, and the institute’s commitment to advancing knowledge and innovation in research. We are proud to share our accomplishments, including our projects, successes, challenges and lessons learned, and we look forward to continuing our mission to support researchers to undertake, facilitate, coordinate and disseminate their innovative and cutting-edge Africa-related research.
The findings and insights in this report aim to inform stakeholders and support decision-making for the progress of the institute. 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 is still actively involved in the execution and implementation of ongoing projects.
Message from leadership
The year 2025 marked a period of steady growth, institutional development and meaningful progress for the Africa Interdisciplinary Research Institute (AfIRI). Throughout the year, the Institute continued to advance its mission through initiatives aimed at supporting emerging researchers, strengthening institutional and research collaborations, and contributing to public health and community-focused research across Ghana and beyond. These accomplishments reflect the collective commitment, dedication and hard work of our staff, research partners, collaborators and other stakeholders.
Despite the progress made, the year was not without challenges. Limited funding opportunities, regulatory delays and gaps in technological infrastructure presented some constraints to our operations and programme implementation. Nevertheless, these challenges provided valuable lessons and opportunities to reflect on our institutional processes, strengthen internal systems and identify areas for improvement.
A significant milestone during the year was the development of AfIRI’s five-year Strategic Plan, which provides a clear roadmap for the Institute’s future growth and sustainability. The plan will guide our efforts towards strengthening research capacity, fostering innovation, expanding interdisciplinary research and building strategic partnerships across Ghana and the African continent.
As we look to the future, we remain committed to promoting research excellence, nurturing the next generation of African researchers, and generating knowledge that responds to the continent’s most pressing challenges. We recognise that achieving these aspirations requires sustained collaboration and the continued support of our partners, funders, staff and the wider research community.
On behalf of the leadership of AfIRI, we extend our sincere appreciation to everyone who contributed to the Institute’s achievements during the year. Your continued trust, partnership and support remain invaluable as we work together to advance research, strengthen knowledge generation and create lasting positive change in the communities we serve.
Thank you for being part of AfIRI’s journey.
Achievements and impact
Grant awards for tertiary students
In 2025, AfIRI continued its commitment to supporting academic excellence by providing competitive grant awards to tertiary institution students. Over the years, these grants have been awarded to students from leading universities in Ghana, including:
- University of Ghana
- University of Cape Coast
- Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology
- University for Development Studies
What made the 2025 awards particularly remarkable was the expansion of the grant scheme beyond Ghana to other African countries, reflecting the institute’s vision of empowering young researchers across Africa. Notably, a PhD student from Kenya won the PhD category award, demonstrating the institute’s growing commitment to fostering research excellence beyond Ghana’s borders.
These grants played a crucial role in helping students complete their thesis and dissertation projects. They not only offered financial support but also encouraged recipients to explore their research topics more deeply, promoting critical thinking, academic curiosity and innovation. Through this initiative, AfIRI contributed significantly to building a strong research culture and cultivating future scholars.
The impact of the grant programme extended beyond individual beneficiaries. By engaging students across multiple universities, the institute helped promote cross-institutional collaboration, knowledge sharing and scholarly dialogue. Students were empowered to pursue innovative research ideas, participate in academic discussions and contribute meaningfully to their respective fields.
Testimonies from grant beneficiaries highlight how AfIRI’s support made a substantial difference to them, their continued research and their academic journeys.
Donation of hospital equipment to health facilities
In collaboration with Push Aid Africa Foundation (PAAF), the Institute undertook a significant initiative aimed at strengthening healthcare delivery across selected health facilities. Unlike the previous year, when the Institute focused on donating books and study materials to nursing institutions, this year’s efforts were directed towards enhancing clinical capacity through the provision of essential hospital equipment.
Through this partnership, the Institute donated a range of medical equipment to polyclinics and municipal hospitals. These donations were targeted at facilities that continue to face critical resource gaps, particularly in the provision of quality healthcare services to their surrounding communities. By supplying equipment that supports diagnosis, treatment and patient care, the Institute contributed to improving operational efficiency and service delivery within these health facilities.
The initiative reflects the Institute’s commitment to addressing healthcare inequalities and supporting frontline institutions that play a vital role in community health outcomes. The donation not only strengthened the facilities’ ability to provide timely and effective care but also reinforced AfIRI’s strategic drive toward sustainable health system improvement.
This collaboration with PAAF demonstrates the Institute’s dedication to fostering strong partnerships that directly impact healthcare delivery. By aligning resources and expertise, AfIRI continues to champion initiatives that support local health facilities, promote equitable access to essential medical services and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of public health in Ghana.
Growth in staff strength
The staff growth of the previous year was further strengthened, reflecting AfIRI’s ongoing organizational expansion and its increasing capacity to support interdisciplinary research and academic activities. This growth strengthened the institute’s overall research capabilities and administrative support, resulting in improved efficiency and productivity in fulfilling its mission.
Alongside the increase in staff numbers, AfIRI organized regular trainings and capacity-building workshops throughout the year. These played a crucial role in enhancing staff competencies, developing professional skills and improving overall performance. The consistent investment in staff development ensured that both new and existing personnel were equipped with the knowledge, tools and confidence to contribute effectively to the institute’s goals.
The expansion of staff strength, complemented by continuous professional development, aligns with AfIRI’s medium- to long-term vision for institutional growth and sustainability. With a diverse and well-trained team of dedicated professionals, the institute has been able to broaden its research portfolio, offer specialized expertise and provide enhanced support services to students, researchers and collaborators.
Ultimately, the strengthened staff capacity underscores AfIRI’s commitment to academic excellence and research leadership. By recruiting talented individuals across disciplines, and continually investing in their development, the institute has fortified its intellectual capital and fostered a dynamic, multidisciplinary environment that promotes innovation and high-quality research.
Increased collaboration with researchers
The Institute strengthened its collaboration with both internal and external researchers to support the implementation of various study projects. This effort created more opportunities for interdisciplinary work and encouraged knowledge sharing across different fields.
These collaborations led to the development of practical and impactful research projects, improved research outputs and wider dissemination of findings. Working with researchers from diverse backgrounds also broadened the Institute’s research portfolio and created space for meaningful academic dialogue.
By building strong partnerships with external experts and institutions, the Institute was able to draw on shared skills, resources and networks. This collective approach helped address complex research problems and contributed to producing more relevant and influential research outcomes.
Research projects
During the 2025 fiscal year, AfIRI continued the implementation of several ongoing research projects across various regions of Ghana. These projects, which cover diverse areas of public health and interdisciplinary research, progressed through different stages of implementation, with activities focusing on data collection, participant follow-ups, research coordination, monitoring and data analysis. The following highlights some of the major research projects that remained active during the reporting period.
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 COPE Study is an ongoing research project designed to examine the effectiveness, comparative effectiveness and acceptability of two vaginal menstrual cup models (Cup and Cup+) as temporary, non-surgical management options for urinary leakage among women living with vesicovaginal fistula. The study also seeks to assess the feasibility of using these interventions in both clinical and community settings and to estimate the costs associated with non-surgical fistula management.
Throughout the 2025 reporting period, the project remained in its implementation phase, with research activities continuing across its study sites in the Central and Northern Regions of Ghana. The study continued to contribute to efforts aimed at generating evidence on acceptable, accessible and cost-effective non-surgical approaches to obstetric fistula management.
Water Insecurity Study
Identifying the Mechanisms of Water Insecurity on HIV Treatment Outcomes
The Water Insecurity Study aims to understand how water insecurity affects HIV treatment outcomes among people living with HIV (PLWH) in Ghana. Specifically, the study examines the relationship between water insecurity, climate-related factors and HIV treatment outcomes, with the broader objective of informing the development of interventions and programmatic strategies to address water insecurity among PLWH in Ghana and other parts of sub-Saharan Africa.
Officially initiated in June 2024, the study progressed through its planned phases of implementation, including baseline assessments and participant follow-up data collection at three-month intervals.
Before the 2025 reporting year, baseline data collection was conducted between October and November 2024, with participants recruited from selected health facilities across three regions of Ghana: Greater Accra, Eastern and Upper East. The participating facilities were:
- Greater Accra Region: Kaneshie Polyclinic, Madina Polyclinic, Weija-Gbawe Municipal Hospital and Ashaiman Polyclinic
- Eastern Region: Somanya Polyclinic, Atua Government Hospital and Akuse Government Hospital
- Upper East Region: War Memorial Hospital, Paga District Hospital and Bongo District Hospital
Following baseline data collection, the project moved into data analysis and participant follow-up. During the first half of 2025, the research team continued to assess participants’ experiences of water insecurity and how these relate to adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) and HIV treatment outcomes over time.
However, the study was temporarily paused in July 2025 due to insufficient funds to continue the planned research activities. Despite the interruption, the study had made important progress through its baseline data collection and initial implementation, providing a foundation for future research and the potential resumption of the remaining activities.
We Are Together (WAT) Study
Development and Testing of an Intervention to Reduce HIV-Related Stigma Among Pregnant and Postpartum Women
The We Are Together (WAT) Study is an ongoing research project aimed at understanding and addressing HIV-related stigma experienced by pregnant and postpartum women living with HIV. The study examines the nature and extent of the stigma these women experience, including how they are treated within healthcare settings and their communities, and develops and tests interventions to reduce stigma and improve their experiences of care.
The study is being implemented across selected health facilities in the Greater Accra and Eastern Regions of Ghana. In the Greater Accra Region, participating facilities include Ashaiman Polyclinic, Madina Polyclinic and Kaneshie Polyclinic. Eastern Region facilities joined the study’s implementation activities in 2025.
During the preceding phase of the study, baseline interviews were conducted with approximately 30 to 35 pregnant and postpartum women living with HIV and 20 healthcare workers. The findings from these interviews informed the ongoing analysis of women’s and healthcare providers’ experiences and perspectives on HIV-related stigma.
As part of the intervention development process, a Community Advisory Board was established to provide guidance and contribute to appropriate, context-specific strategies for reducing HIV-related stigma among pregnant and postpartum women living with HIV.
Throughout 2025, the project continued towards intervention development and testing, building on insights from the baseline assessments and stakeholder engagement. The study remains an important part of AfIRI’s commitment to generating evidence and developing practical interventions to improve the health and well-being of women living with HIV.
Challenges and lessons learned
Throughout the year, the institute faced obstacles in several areas that affected its effectiveness, efficiency and overall success. These challenges gave us the opportunity to assess the organization’s performance and the key areas that need attention. Below are some challenges from which lessons were learned.
Funding and resources
AfIRI relies largely on grants, which can be unpredictable and competitive, and securing them is sometimes challenging. Delays in releasing funds to AfIRI often interrupt our work, and currency fluctuation adversely affects the pace of project execution. The institute also faces limited funding sources to sustain its research initiatives and operations. Despite these constraints, AfIRI remains committed to optimizing its limited resources, exploring diverse funding opportunities and making its financial management more efficient to support groundbreaking research and academic work.
Competition for grants
Securing research grants in an increasingly competitive environment remains a major challenge. In response, the institute has adopted measures to better align its research priorities with available funding opportunities, highlight the impact of its research outputs and navigate demanding grant application processes. By strengthening strategic partnerships, maximizing collaborative engagements and emphasizing the societal relevance of its work, AfIRI remains committed to overcoming grant-related challenges and ensuring sustainable funding for its research.
Regulatory compliance and reporting
Navigating regulatory requirements, compliance standards and reporting obligations is a complex challenge. The institute upholds a commitment to transparency, accountability and ethical research practice, ensuring adherence to regulatory guidelines and reporting standards through robust compliance measures and rigorous oversight. However, the numerous bureaucratic processes involved in acquiring clearance and approvals for projects cause significant frustration and delay.
Technology and infrastructure
Investing in technology, research equipment and data systems remains a big challenge for AfIRI, especially as a not-for-profit organization. The institute recognizes the need to improve its technological tools, upgrade research facilities and adopt digital solutions for better research and data management. By focusing on smart, strategic investments, using cost-effective technologies and encouraging digital skills and innovation among staff, AfIRI aims to address its infrastructure challenges and strengthen its research capacity.
Future plans
To address these challenges and promote sustainable success and continuity, the institute has identified some key areas for attention.
A five-year strategic plan
The institute is dedicated to creating a detailed five-year strategic plan that connects its projects to its long-term goals. The plan will help researchers set priorities, monitor their progress and work more efficiently. In 2025, the institute successfully drafted this plan. The roadmap covers grant writing, conducting research, publishing results, teaching responsibilities and community service. Together, these elements aim to strengthen research quality and increase AfIRI’s academic impact.
Collaboration and knowledge exchange
AfIRI will foster collaboration and knowledge sharing among researchers by organizing flagship events. These will bring together experts from diverse fields to share research findings, spark innovative ideas and facilitate interdisciplinary collaborations that drive scientific discovery and academic advancement.
Sustainable funding
AfIRI remains committed to finding a variety of funding sources, such as grants, contracts and donations, to support and grow its research. By actively seeking external funding, the institute aims to sustain ongoing projects, improve its infrastructure and support new initiatives, so that it can keep producing meaningful research that advances knowledge and benefits society.
Appreciation and acknowledgements
As we reflect on the achievements of the Africa Interdisciplinary Research Institute (AfIRI), we extend our sincere appreciation to everyone who has supported our work. Our progress in research and community impact has been possible because of the collective efforts and dedication of our stakeholders, partners, researchers, staff and community supporters.
We are deeply grateful to our researchers for their hard work, passion and commitment to producing quality research. Your curiosity, creativity and teamwork continue to strengthen our academic community and contribute valuable knowledge that benefits society.
We also thank our funding partners, donors and supporters. Your generosity and belief in our mission provide the essential resources that keep our projects moving forward, and help us grow, innovate and make a meaningful difference in research and education.
Our appreciation goes to our administrative staff, technical teams and all collaborators who work diligently behind the scenes. Your professionalism, dedication and teamwork ensure that our operations run smoothly and that research activities are well supported.
We extend our thanks to the wider academic community, industry partners, government agencies and community stakeholders who have worked with us, shared knowledge and contributed to our projects. Your collaboration helps us explore new ideas, address important challenges and turn research into real solutions that benefit society.
As we look ahead, we remain grateful for the continued support and encouragement we receive from all our partners and contributors. Your trust and collaboration motivate us to keep improving, embrace new opportunities and pursue excellence in all our work.
Thank you for being part of our journey. Together, we will continue to build knowledge, inspire innovation and create positive change in the research and academic landscape.