History – GAFS

History of the birth of the Ghana Academy of Forensic Sciences

In 2012, within the Morbid Anatomy Department of the 37 Military Hospital, an idea was born, an idea that would transform the landscape of forensic science in Ghana. It was here that two visionaries, COP Dr. David Agyemang, then Director of the Crime Lab, and Dr. Pet-Paul Wepeba of the Pathology Division, first conceived the vision of a professional body that would unite experts, researchers, and practitioners to advance forensic science in the service of justice.

This vision quickly gained momentum. In a follow-up meeting at the Crime Lab, two more enthusiasts, Mr. Alex Oppong, then with KPMG, and Dr. Albert Antwi-Bosiako of the e-Crime Bureau joined the conversation. In the office of COP Dr. Agyemang, these four pioneers deliberated extensively and finally agreed on a name that would carry their vision forward: the Forensic Science Society of Ghana. Dr. Pet-Paul Wepeba, Dr. Moses Banyeh and Assistant Prof. Aaron Amankwaa developed the draft constitution and code of ethics for consideration.

After extensive consultations, the Society convened its charter meeting on February 6, 2016, at the 37 Military Hospital. In attendance were acting Chairperson Dr. Pet-Paul Wepeba, acting Secretary Assistant Prof. Aaron Amankwaa, Mr. Alex Oppong, Mr. George Olipoh, Maj. Emmanuel Adusei, and Mr. Isaac Badu. Although unable to be present, Dr. Moses Banyeh, Dr. Dan Nana Osei Mensah Bonsu, and Ms. Bernice Tali made significant contributions to the proceedings.

During the meeting, members reviewed the draft constitution, adopted the code of ethics, and initiated steps toward formally registering the Society and electing national executives. The founding executive members elected were:

President: COP Dr David Agyemang Adjem, Vice President: Dr. Dan Osei Mensah Bonsu, Secretary: Assistant Prof. Aaron Amankwaa, Treasurer: Dr. Moses Banyeh, Deputy Secretary: Ms. Bernice Tali.

As the field of forensic science advanced, so too did the Society. In 2021, it evolved into the Ghana Academy of Forensic Sciences (GAFS), officially registered as a professional body with a national mandate. This transformation signalled a strengthened commitment, not only to Ghana but also to global forensic education, research, and professional development.

Today, the Ghana Academy of Forensic Sciences stands as a beacon of excellence, fostering collaboration, building capacity, engaging in international partnerships, and addressing challenges unique to Ghana.

As we launch the Academy, we honour these pioneers and reaffirm our mission: to advance forensic science for justice, security, and national development, one breakthrough at a time.