The West Africa Centre for Crop Improvement (WACCI), University of Ghana, is pleased to announce the appointment of Prof. Daniel Kwadjo Dzidzienyo as its new Director, effective April 1, 2026.
Prof. Dzidzienyo is an Associate Professor at the Biotechnology Centre of the University of Ghana. He has been an integral part of WACCI since 2013, contributing significantly to the Centre’s growth through teaching, research, and institutional leadership. He served as Deputy Centre Leader under the Africa Centres of Excellence (ACE) project from 2015, and from October 2023 as Deputy Director for Administration, Teaching, and Learning.
Since August 2025, he has held the position of Acting Director, providing steady leadership and ensuring continuity in advancing WACCI’s mission and vision.
Over the years, Prof. Dzidzienyo has served the University of Ghana in several key capacities. These include membership on the WACCI Management Committee, the Biotechnology Centre Management Committee, the College of Basic and Applied Sciences (CBAS) Academic and Research Boards, and the University Academic Board. His leadership experience spans academic governance, research oversight, and quality assurance in teaching and learning.
His research focuses on the application of advanced molecular tools for the genetic improvement of crops, with particular emphasis on developing resilient root and tuber crop varieties to enhance food and nutrition security across Africa.
This appointment marks a new phase in WACCI’s leadership, following a distinguished period under its founding leadership. After nearly 19 years of executive leadership, the Founding Director, Prof. Eric Y. Danquah has transitioned to a non-executive role, where he will focus on strategic advisory, global partnerships, and resource mobilization. This transition represents an important step in WACCI’s institutional development, strengthening systems for continuity and long-term sustainability.
Prof. Danquah in his handing- over expressed confidence in the new leadership and extended his best wishes to Professor Dzidzienyo, noting that continued collaboration will be key to advancing WACCI’s impact.
WACCI warmly welcomes Prof. Dzidzienyo to this important role and looks forward to building on its legacy of excellence under his leadership.
