Substantive messages of solidarity, policy commitment, and regional leadership delivered during the Opening Plenary of the 9th Evidence to Action (E2A) Conference and Exhibition.
Delivered the goodwill message on behalf of Ghana and the University of Ghana as host institution. He welcomed delegates to Accra and affirmed the University of Ghana's commitment to advancing evidence-informed policy and decision-making in Africa. He underscored the importance of bridging the gap between research production and policy action, and expressed confidence that the E2A 2026 Conference would generate practical, Africa-led solutions to the continent's most pressing development challenges.
Delivered a powerful message affirming the urgency of evidence-informed governance across Africa. He emphasised that the conference theme—Reimagining the Evidence-Informed Policy and Decision-Making Ecosystem in Africa—transcends academic discussion and represents an urgent call to action for development on the continent. He noted Africa's central paradox—that the continent is data-rich yet information-poor—and called on leaders to close this gap.
"A law not backed by data is a shot in the dark. A law backed by evidence is a tool for progress."
Brought greetings from H.E. Dr. William Samoei Ruto, President of Kenya, and delivered one of the conference's most substantive goodwill messages. He introduced the concept of Afro-Pragmatism—an evolution of Pan-Africanism demanding economic transformation, integration, and converting human and natural resources into shared prosperity. Cited Kenya's BETA Plan and Persons with Disabilities Act 2025.
"The purpose of evidence is not to fill libraries. It is to improve lives."
Delivered Uganda's goodwill message, expressing appreciation for the opportunity to participate in the conference. He noted the importance of taking stock of developments and progress achieved since the previous E2A convening, and looked forward to frank and substantive discussions that would advance evidence-informed decision-making across the continent.
Conveyed Somalia's strong commitment to evidence-based policymaking. Highlighted the Federal Government of Somalia's National Transformation Plan (2025–2029) as a concrete demonstration of this commitment—a framework through which Somalia is institutionalising the use of evidence in national planning, investment, and economic development.
Delivered Tanzania's goodwill message, affirming that the conference theme—Reimagining the Evidence-Informed Policy and Decision-Making Ecosystem in Africa—resonates directly with Tanzania's national agenda to strengthen evidence-based decision-making at all levels of government.