In the sphere of public sector governance, true transformative leadership is rarely measured by the ability to envision change alone, it is measured by the ability to execute that change with precision and purpose. As the Traditional Medicine Practice Council (TMPC) marks the first anniversary of its Acting Registrar, Dr. (MH) Yakubu Tobor Yusuf, the institution stands as a compelling testament to what visionary stewardship can achieve in a remarkably short period.

Since assuming office, Dr. (MH) Yusuf has ushered in an era defined by bold reforms, strategic clarity, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. His leadership has fundamentally repositioned the TMPC, transforming it into a modern, responsive, and forward-looking regulatory body, one fully equipped to serve the needs of Ghana’s vital Traditional and Alternative Medicine sector.

Upon taking the helm, Dr. (MH) Yusuf’s immediate priority was to establish a clear roadmap for the future. He spearheaded the development of a comprehensive Strategic Plan for the Council, providing robust policy direction for the institution. The plan is designed to strengthen regulatory systems, deepen collaboration with key stakeholders, and advance the sustainable development of Traditional and Alternative Medicine practice across Ghana.

A significant milestone under his leadership has been the decentralization of the Council’s operations to improve accessibility. Through the establishment and renovation of select District and Regional Offices, regulatory services have been brought closer to practitioners and stakeholders across the country. This strategic expansion has enhanced operational efficiency and ensured that the Council remains accessible and responsive to the communities it serves.

To further this objective, Dr. (MH) Yusuf personally undertook working visits to key locations nationwide. These included the five regions in Northern Ghana; the Northern, North East, Upper East, Savannah, and Upper West Regions as well as the Volta Regional and District Offices, the Bono, Bono East and Ashanti Region. During these visits, he successfully secured new office accommodations, further strengthening the Council’s presence and service delivery across these areas.

In line with modern public sector reforms, Dr. (MH) Yusuf championed the digital transformation of the Council’s services. The successful activation of the Ghana.gov Payment Platform represents a landmark step in modernizing revenue collection and service delivery, significantly improving transparency, accountability, and efficiency across the Council’s financial and administrative processes.

Recognizing that institutional success depends largely on the motivation and well-being of its people, Dr. (MH) Yusuf made staff welfare and career development a core priority. His administration implemented a 15 percent increment in allowances for Contract Personnel and facilitated the resolution of long-outstanding promotions for qualified staff. These measures have greatly boosted staff morale and strengthened the Council’s human resource framework.

Equally important has been the focus on strengthening the Council’s physical and institutional infrastructure. Through strategic resource mobilization, office space was secured and funds were facilitated for the renovation of the Council’s new Head Office, creating a more conducive working environment and enhancing the Council’s capacity to deliver quality regulatory services.

Dr. (MH) Yusuf has also demonstrated a firm commitment to capacity building and professional development. Under his leadership, all outstanding Traditional and Alternative Medicine Assistant (TAMA) training sessions from 2023 were successfully completed, ensuring that staff maintain the high standards required to uphold regulatory excellence within the sector.

His tenure has equally been marked by decisive action to strengthen governance and internal accountability. A landmark achievement during this period is the establishment of the Council’s first-ever Audit Committee, which is set to be inaugurated shortly. Additionally, Dr. (MH) Yusuf has reinforced the institution’s leadership framework by bringing on board a substantive head for the Human Resource, Accounts, and Internal Audit Units, which is a strategic restructuring that has significantly enhanced internal controls and bolstered the Council’s overall governance architecture.

A Look Ahead

In just twelve months, Dr. (MH) Yakubu Tobor Yusuf has laid a strong and sustainable foundation for the future of the Traditional Medicine Practice Council. His leadership characterized by strategic vision, bold reforms, and an unwavering commitment to transparency has not only delivered tangible results but has also positioned the Council for long-term growth and relevance.

As the TMPC marks this important milestone, it is both a moment to celebrate a year of remarkable progress and to look ahead with confidence, knowing that a leadership committed to redefining excellence in public service continues to guide the institution forward.

Congratulations, Dr. (MH) Yakubu Tobor Yusuf.

Florence Exornam Agbitsu

Public Relations Unit

Traditional Medicine Practice Council