BSc in Biochemistry
Félix Houphouët-Boigny University, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
Professional biography
A scientific life shaped by curiosity, evidence and service
Prof. Kwame B.N. Banga is a pharmacologist, academic leader and advocate for the responsible scientific development of traditional and alternative medicine.
From a question about healing to a career in translational pharmacology
His scientific journey began with an enduring curiosity about illness, healing and the medicinal knowledge found within African communities. That curiosity led him first to biochemistry, then to molecular and cellular pharmacology, mitochondrial bioenergetics and, ultimately, to a broader translational mission.
Across Côte d’Ivoire, France, Ghana and China, he has worked at the intersection of fundamental mechanisms and practical health needs. His career connects mitochondrial function, oxidative stress, experimental pharmacology, ethnopharmacology, natural-product safety and the institutional systems required to translate evidence into responsible practice.
He is currently Professor of Pharmacology and Director of the Institute of Traditional and Alternative Medicine at the University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana.
Publishing name
Benoit Banga N’guessanIdentity and publishing name
I was formerly known, addressed and identified as Benoit Banga N’guessan. Consequently, all my publications to date bear either Benoit N’guessan or Benoit Banga N’guessan.
Academic formation
Abidjan, Strasbourg and the foundations of a translational scientist
MPhil in Pharmacology and Pharmaco-Chemistry
University of Strasbourg, France
PhD in Pharmacology
University of Strasbourg, France · thesis awarded special commendation
Postdoctoral research
CNRS IBMC, UMR-CNRS 7175 and Laboratory of Therapeutic Innovations, Strasbourg
Visiting Researcher
Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China
Academic progression
Teaching, research and leadership across two academic systems
Nangui-Abrogoua University
Lecturer, then Senior Lecturer in Physiology, Pharmacology and Phytotherapy.
University of Ghana School of Pharmacy
Senior Lecturer and Associate Professor; Head of Pharmacology and Toxicology; Acting Dean; examinations and academic leadership roles.
University of Health and Allied Sciences
Professor of Pharmacology and Director of the Institute of Traditional and Alternative Medicine.
Leadership with an institutional purpose
Prof. Banga’s leadership is centred on building durable systems for education, research, quality assurance, professional development and evidence-based integration. At ITAM, this purpose is expressed through the development of the Natural Products Laboratory, collaboration with regulators and practitioner bodies, and the Professional Practice Course for Traditional Medicine Practitioners.
Professional philosophy
“Understand deeply. Validate rigorously. Build capacity. Translate responsibly. Strengthen institutions. Inspire those who come next.”