By Jibril Abdul Mumuni
Accra, June 24, GNA – The 2026 Evidence-to-Action (E2A) Conference is set to produce practical solutions for policymaking in Africa, as 47 evidence-informed policy and practice cases are being reviewed.
The cases, drawn from across the continent, are being presented in specialised “evidence innovation labs” to identify what works, why it works, and how successful approaches can be expanded to improve governance and development outcomes in Africa.
The conference is on the theme: “Reimagining the Evidence-Informed Policy and Decision-Making Ecosystem in Africa.”
The conference has brought together participants from several African countries to share knowledge and build stronger partnerships between research institutions and policymakers.
Participants are expected to identify practical approaches that can be applied immediately to improve decision-making processes in their respective countries.
The outcome of the conference is expected to provide tested policy models that governments can adopt to ensure that decisions are guided by evidence and deliver measurable impact for citizens.
Dr. David S. Ameyaw, President of the International Centre for Evaluation and Development (ICED), said the process was designed to move beyond discussions to real results that could shape national policies.
He said participants, including policymakers, researchers and development partners, would assess the cases to determine those that had clearly influenced policies, programmes and public service delivery.
“We are focused on results. We want to see clear examples of where evidence has led to change.” Dr. Ameyaw said.
He explained that the best-performing cases would be selected and further studied to identify the key factors behind their success, with the aim of scaling them up or adapting them in other countries.
Dr. Ameyaw added that the final cases would be documented and published to serve as a practical guide for governments and institutions across Africa to improve decision-making.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Fabakary Tombong Jatta, the Speaker of the National Assembly of The Gambia, underscored the need for African countries to use evidence in policymaking to achieve better results.
The Speaker said many policies on the continent fail because they are not based on reliable data or the real needs of citizens.
“A law backed by evidence is a tool for progress,” the Speaker stated, stressing that governments must rely on data to guide decisions and public spending.
Mr. Tambong Jatta noted that evidence-informed policymaking could improve accountability, reduce corruption and ensure fair distribution of resources.
The Speaker also said the use of credible data could help reduce inequality, strengthen public trust in institutions and promote peace and stability across Africa.
GNA
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Edited by Samuel Osei-Frempong