UG Professor of Public Health Nutrition Inducted as Fellow of the American Society for Nutrition

Professor Richmond Aryeetey, a public health nutritionist at the University of Ghana, has been inducted into the American Society for Nutrition (ASN) as part of the inaugural class of 2025 Excellence in Nutrition Fellows.

The award ceremony took place at the ASN Conference in Orlando, Florida, on 1st June 2025.

Professor Aryeetey’s induction follows a rigorous evaluation by the ASN Membership Committee and recognises his distinguished contributions to nutrition science and policy, as well as dedicated service to ASN over the past five years. Among the 55 fellows and academicians recognised globally, he was the only African honoree.

Professor Aryeetey holds a Bachelor’s degree in Nutrition and Food Science and a Master of Public Health from the University of Ghana, as well as a PhD in Human Nutritional Sciences from Iowa State University. A Fellow of the Ghana Academy of Arts and Sciences, he has more than two decades of experience in nutritional epidemiology, community nutrition and maternal and child nutrition.

He has led several research initiatives and contributed to the development of national and global nutrition policies. A notable achievement is his leadership in the development and implementation of Ghana’s first-ever National Food-Based Dietary Guidelines.

Currently, Professor Aryeetey is leading the NKABOM: Nutrition and Sustainable Agri-Food Systems Collaborative at the University of Ghana, which focuses on improving maternal, youth and child health and development in Ghana and across Sub-Saharan Africa.

He has mentored over 100 students and early-career scientists in the fields of nutrition, dietetics and public health. His work has also contributed to addressing food systems challenges in Ghana, influencing national policies and interventions on food security, maternal and child nutrition and sustainable agriculture.

Through the NKABOM Collaborative and in partnership with McGill University and the Mastercard Foundation, Professor Aryeetey is advancing research and creating opportunities for marginalised groups. The initiative focuses on enhancing food systems literacy, creating jobs, promoting entrepreneurship and addressing food security and nutritional challenges in Ghana and the wider region.

Founded in 1952, the American Society for Nutrition (ASN) is a global organisation dedicated to advancing nutrition research, education and practice. With nearly 7,000 members from over 100 countries, ASN supports collaboration among researchers, clinicians and institutions worldwide.

The ASN and ASN Foundation awards programme annually recognises scientists and professionals for significant contributions to the field. The Excellence in Nutrition Fellow distinction represents the highest honour awarded by the Society.