CEANA, UHAS to explore establishment of cancer research centre - Volta Council of State Member

The Council of Ewe Associations of North America (CEANA) has announced plans to build a state-of-the-art Cancer Research and Treatment Centre in Ghana's Volta Region, in collaboration with the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS) in Ho. President of CEANA, Mr William Edem Kumah, revealed this at the 2026 CEANA Conference in Maryland, USA.

The centre is envisioned to merge cancer research, diagnosis, treatment, and medical training within one facility. Advanced medical technology, including a Linear Accelerator (LINAC), is planned to be a part of the infrastructure. The proposed centre is set to serve the healthcare needs of Ghana's Volta Region, while also contributing to cancer research and professional development across Ghana and the wider West African sub-region.

This initiative aims to fortify the region's capacity to handle cancer care. Mr Gabriel Tanko Kwamigah-Atokple, a member of the Council of State representing the Volta Region, welcomed the proposal, stating it emerged from discussions he had with Mr Kumah before the conference. Kumah had earlier visited Kwamigah-Atokple ahead of the conference to discuss the possibility of CEANA partnering with UHAS to establish a cancer research and treatment centre.

Kwamigah-Atokple, welcoming the proposal, said it underscored the Ewe diaspora's potential to contribute to Ghana's development. He highlighted that the Ewe community in North America comprises professionals like doctors, researchers, academics, and businessmen, whose expertise and international networks could aid Ghana's development.

The proposed cancer centre exemplifies how diaspora expertise, resources, and knowledge could be directed towards addressing long-term community challenges, beyond mere financial support. UHAS, which offers programs in health education, research, and professional training, including oncology, will provide the academic and research backbone for the proposed centre.

Kwamigah-Atokple affirmed his willingness to support the project's development as the region's representative. He expressed confidence that, with the right support, the centre could significantly bolster cancer research and treatment in the Volta Region, and serve as a vital institution for Ghana and the wider West African sub-region.

The announcement of the proposed centre at the CEANA conference positions it among key projects under consideration by the Ewe diaspora for the Volta Region's development. Further discussions are expected to address the technical, institutional, and financial aspects of establishing the facility and defining its role within Ghana's health system.

Kwamigah-Atokple sees the project as a testament to the value of integrating diaspora expertise and resources with local healthcare needs. He believes successful implementation of the centre will not only strengthen cancer research and treatment in the Volta Region but also contribute to Ghana's and the wider West African sub-region's healthcare landscape.