gms | German Medical Science

Research question: This research seeks to find answers to the question: Are there lessons from the COVID-19 Response Strategy implementation in Sub-Saharan Africa that could inform the development of a multisectoral governance framework for health security?

Methods: It will adopt a mixed-method approach (qualitative and quantitative) with the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) Version 2018 as a guide. Data will be collected through stakeholder mapping using a culturally sensitive questionnaire, focus group discussion and key informant interviews will be done iteratively. A realist review, evidence synthesis framework, will be adopted to scope for concepts, theories and frameworks on health security using the Context, Generative Mechanisms and Outcomes (CMO) parameters to ascertain what works, for whom, within what context, how and why. A Strength, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT) analysis on the National COVID-19 Response Strategy implementation will be conducted for critical learning. The realist review and the SWOT will then inform the development of a health security governance framework.

Expected outcomes: The review of the available conceptual frameworks and theories on health security governance will report on the following themes: What works, for whom, how and in what circumstances. A SWOT analysis on the National COVID-19 response strategy implementation based upon the review and the SWOT analysis develop a multisectoral governance framework for health security.

Discussion: The study aims to create a governance framework for health security preparedness and response in Ghana, drawing from lessons learned during the implementation of the COVID-19 response strategy. Health Security encompasses a range of interventions and systems designed to prevent, detect, minimise, and respond to infectious disease threats, conflicts, and acute public health events that pose risks to people’s health across geographic regions and international boundaries. Despite the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, a 2021 Global Health Security Index report indicates that Ghana, like many other countries, is not adequately prepared for future epidemics and pandemics, ranking 104^th out of 195 countries with an overall score of 34.3%. This highlights the need for improved coordination and communication between the International Health Regulations (IHR) National Focal Point (NFP) and other relevant ministries in Ghana, as evidenced by the 2019–2023 National Action Plan for Health Security, hence the need for this study.