Dr Jerome Emmanuel Abaka-Cann, founder of the Imperial Eye Care Centre, has reiterated the need for African-led research to drive healthcare solutions on the continent, saying local innovation remains critical to improving patient outcomes.

Speaking at the presentation of the Imperial Eye Care Centre 2025 Best Researcher Award in Kumasi, Dr Abaka-Cann said, “Research conducted by Africans, for Africans, is essential if we are to deliver care that truly meets the needs of our communities.”

The award, presented on 20 November 2025, was won by Rosina Osei, the top research student in the graduating class of the Department of Optometry at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST).

It recognises excellence in optometric research and encourages young clinicians to pursue scientific inquiry that addresses Africa’s unique eye care challenges.

Established in 2020, the Best Researcher Award is part of Dr Abaka-Cann’s broader vision to build an ecosystem where African healthcare problems are solved through African-led research, leadership, and innovation. He founded the Imperial Eye Care Centre in 2011 with the aim of not just expanding clinical services but also strengthening research capacity on the continent.

Dr Abaka-Cann noted that much of the clinical evidence guiding healthcare in Africa is often imported, sometimes failing to reflect local realities.

Through his initiative, he hopes to generate local data that can inform both clinical practice and health policy across Ghana and beyond.

Past recipients of the award include Alan Johnston, Ebenezer Owusu, and Isaiah Osei Duah Junior, two of whom are currently pursuing PhDs in the United States—an indication, he said, of the growing international recognition of African-trained researchers.

He also commended the leadership of the KNUST Department of Optometry for its role in mentoring students and nurturing the next generation of clinicians and researchers.

Looking ahead, Dr Abaka-Cann said he plans to expand the award scheme and deepen partnerships between private healthcare institutions and academia to further strengthen Africa’s research ecosystem.