The University of Ghana proudly celebrates the outstanding achievement of Professor Richmond Aryeetey, who has been inducted as part of the inaugural class of 2025 Excellence in Nutrition Fellows of the American Society for Nutrition (ASN). The award ceremony was held as part of the ASN Conference in Orlando, Florida on 1st June, 2025.

Professor Aryeetey’s induction as an Excellence in Nutrition Fellow of ASN is a testament to his distinguished contributions to the field of nutrition science and practice. Among the 55 fellows and academicians recognised globally, he stood out as the only African honoree for his contribution to nutrition research,  policies, and dedicated service to ASN for over five years. His recognition follows a rigorous evaluation by the ASN Membership Committee, which reviewed his extensive work in the field. 

Profile of Professor Richmond Aryeetey

Professor Richmond Aryeetey is a public health nutritionist with a stellar academic and professional career. He 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. 

He is a fellow of the Ghana Academy of Arts and Sciences and has over two decades experience in nutritional epidemiology, community nutrition, and maternal and child nutrition.  He has led numerous research initiatives on maternal and child nutrition and contributed to national and global nutrition policies.

He has mentored more than a 100 students and early career scientists in nutrition, dietetics and public health. A notable highlight of his work is the development and implementation of Ghana’s first-ever National Food-Based Dietary Guidelines; he is currently leading its implementation. He is also currently leading implementation of the NKABOM: Nutrition and Sustainable Agri-Food Systems Collaborative at the University of Ghana. These implementation science projects, demonstrate his commitment to improving maternal, youth and child health and development in Ghana and the rest of Sub-Saharan Africa.

Professor Aryeetey has played a pivotal role in addressing Ghana’s food systems challenges by implementing research projects that influence policies and interventions. His work has led to improved maternal and child nutrition, food security, and sustainable agri-food systems in Ghana. As part of his efforts to advance nutrition science and practice, Professor Aryeetey has established key collaborations with McGill University and the Mastercard Foundation under the Nutrition and Sustainable Agri-Food Systems Collaborative (NKABOM). This partnership is dedicated to:
 

1. Enhancing literacy and competence in food systems to empower the next generation of leaders in Ghana.

2. Creating job opportunities and fostering entrepreneurship in the agri-food sector.

3. Advancing research in sustainable food systems to address nutritional challenges and food security in Ghana and Sub-Saharan Africa.

Through this collaboration, young people, displaced individuals, persons with disabilities and marginalised communities are gaining access to educational and entrepreneurial opportunities, ultimately transforming Ghana’s food systems for the better.

About the American Society for Nutrition (ASN)

The American Society for Nutrition (ASN) is a globally recognised organisation dedicated to advancing nutrition research, education, and practice. Each year, the ASN and ASN Foundation awards programme honors scientists, clinicians and scholars for significant achievements in nutrition research, education, and practice. Established in 1952, ASN has honored more than 500 scientists through its Distinguished Fellow programme, which represents the highest recognition in the field of nutrition science. The American Society for Nutrition (ASN) is a leader in keeping nutrition professionals up to date on the latest science and trends. It embraces new technologies to broaden knowledge in innovative ways by providing high calibre, engaging educational programmes to support continuing education for nutrition professionals and healthcare providers through webinars, meetings, symposia, workshops, online learning, and other professional development activities. It also aims to educate others on nutrition through high-quality, easy-to-understand materials.

With nearly 7,000 members from over 100 countries, ASN fosters collaboration among key stakeholders, including leading researchers, clinicians and institutions worldwide.

The University of Ghana congratulates Professor Richmond Aryeetey on his well-deserved recognition as an ASN Fellow and looks forward to his continued contributions to shaping nutrition science and sustainable food systems in Ghana and beyond.