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Dr. Vida Nyagre Yakong: Newly Appointed Deputy Registrar, Health Facilities Regulatory Agency (HeFRA):Dr. Vida Nyagre Yakong’s journey is one of purpose, perseverance, and transformative impact. From her early days as a practicing nurse to her current role as Deputy Registrar of the Health Facilities Regulatory Agency (HeFRA), she has consistently demonstrated a rare combination of academic excellence, strategic leadership, and community-centered advocacy. Her career began in clinical nursing, where she gained valuable firsthand experience in patient care and health delivery. However, her passion for education and a desire to address the broader systemic challenges in healthcare propelled her into academia.

Leadership in Academia at University of Development Studies : At the University for Development Studies (UDS), Tamale, Dr. Yakong’s leadership roles included Vice Dean, Head of Department, and eventually, Dean of the School of Nursing and Midwifery. In these positions, she reshaped nursing education in Ghana, expanding opportunities for professional growth and contributing to the broader academic community through her commitment to excellence. Her influence reaches far beyond the lecture hall—she is a trusted consultant for the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Ghana and a dedicated patron of various student and community-led initiatives.

Global Impact Through Research and Scholarship: Dr. Yakong earned her PhD in Interdisciplinary Studies (Medical Anthropology) from the University of British Columbia (UBC), Canada, an achievement that equipped her with a global perspective on healthcare systems and the social determinants of health. Her research has focused on critical issues such as maternal health, adolescent reproductive rights, gender equity, and health systems strengthening. Through her work, which spans over 40 peer-reviewed journal publications, Dr. Yakong has collaborated with prestigious institutions in the UK, South Africa, and Rwanda, driving meaningful conversations and action on global health policy.

Commitment to Community Development and Empowerment: What sets Dr. Yakong apart is her unwavering commitment to community development and social change. As the Founder of Ghana Rural Opportunities for Women (GROW) and the Kawon Bogre Girl-Child Education Foundation, she has worked tirelessly to address some of the most pressing needs in rural Ghana. Her initiatives have resulted in the construction of healthcare facilities, the provision of scholarships for girls, and the donation of critical medical equipment. Additionally, Dr. Yakong’s work empowers rural women by promoting sustainable livelihoods and enhancing their economic opportunities.

International Recognition and Accolades: Dr. Yakong’s tireless efforts have not gone unnoticed. She has received numerous international accolades, including the prestigious Margaret McNamara Memorial Fund Award from the World Bank and the Outstanding Future Alumnus Award from UBC. These recognitions highlight her role as a global thought leader in women’s health, equity, and empowerment.

Deputy Registrar at HeFRA: Shaping the Future of Healthcare Regulation in Ghana : In her current role as Deputy Registrar of HeFRA, Dr. Yakong brings a unique blend of academic, policy, and community experience to the regulation and oversight of health facilities across Ghana. Her strategic vision and deep understanding of healthcare systems will undoubtedly contribute to raising the standards of care and ensuring better accountability in the healthcare sector.

Dr. Vida Nyagre Yakong’s remarkable career exemplifies the power of compassionate, transformational leadership. Her journey reflects vision, service, and sustained impact, and she continues to inspire by bridging the worlds of academia, policy, and community. Congratulations to Dr. Yakong for her trailblazing journey and the lasting impact she has made in healthcare and community development.

Written by Abdulsalam Mohammed: CEO of Oxygen Health