After 3 decades at FDA, Delese “Mimi” Darko lands top job with African Medicines Agency

Dr. Darko's leadership has built the FDA’s credibility in Africa. Ghana is now a model for other national regulatory authorities. Her achievements made her a top candidate for the AMA position. The goal was to find a visionary leader for Africa’s regulatory future.

The African Medicines Agency (AMA) was established by the African Union in 2021. It aims to improve access to quality medical products across Africa. The agency will support local pharmaceutical manufacturing and combat counterfeit medicines. It will also enhance coordination during health emergencies.

Dr. Darko's election is a personal victory and a diplomatic win for Ghana. In her new role, she is expected to lead the AMA toward better regulatory integration. She aims to improve health outcomes and create a self-reliant African pharmaceutical landscape.