Ghana to acquire DNA testing device for Noguchi Institute confirms health minister

Ghana’s health minister has confirmed that the government will procure a modern DNA testing device for the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research. The planned acquisition is expected to significantly improve forensic capabilities, public health diagnostics, and disease surveillance in Ghana.

According to the minister, the new device will help the Noguchi Institute process DNA samples more rapidly and accurately than before. This development comes as part of a broader effort to enhance laboratory capacity and prepare the country for increasingly complex health and forensic challenges.

The minister explained that the device will be used not only for criminal forensic investigations but also for epidemiological research such as tracing disease outbreaks, identifying genetic markers, and supporting public health responses. He noted that with growing demand for advanced testing, the institute must be equipped to handle both criminal cases and high level medical research.

Officials from Noguchi welcomed the announcement, describing the procurement as a major boost to their existing infrastructure. Staff scientists said they will train on the technology and integrate the device into both their forensic and public health workflows. They believe that once operational, the testing capacity of the institute will improve decisively, reducing backlogs and improving turnaround times for critical tests.

Public health experts say this initiative is long overdue. They argue that many low and middle income countries lack advanced molecular diagnostics infrastructure, creating gaps in timely identification of infections, forensic evidence, and emerging health threats. For Ghana, such an investment could both support justice systems and health systems.

To successfully integrate the new device, the ministry also plans to establish a training program for lab staff and forensic officers. The minister indicated that part of the procurement budget will go toward specialist training and ongoing maintenance of the equipment to guarantee its sustainable operation.

In addition, the minister stressed that procurement will be conducted transparently, and that no corners will be cut. He said the government is committed to ensuring that the investment delivers real value not just in day-to-day testing but also in long term impact on Ghana’s health and security systems.

Civil society organisations and human rights advocates have welcomed the decision but called for strong data protection policies. They emphasised that with powerful DNA testing capacity comes an equally strong need for ethical frameworks to safeguard personal genetic information and prevent abuse.

If successfully deployed, the device could position the Noguchi Institute as a leading regional centre for molecular diagnostics. Experts predict that Ghana could use its enhanced capacity to support other countries in West Africa, building a network of advanced labs and sharing expertise across borders.

In summary, the confirmed procurement of a state-of-the-art DNA testing device for the Noguchi Memorial Institute signals a major leap for Ghana in forensic science, public health research and epidemic preparedness. The government’s investment may transform the way the country tackles health threats and criminal investigations for years to come.