Its board members on Friday, January 10, 2014, endorsed new areas of research on diseases and plant studies.

The Director of the Institute of Medical Research and Medicinal Plant Studies (IMPM), Prof. J.L. Essame Oyono, has said that the institute, placed under the Ministry of Scientific Research and Innovation; will in 2014 redouble its efforts in leading research, preventing, diagnosing and treating priority pathologies caused by the problems of public health in the country.

He said all will also be done to develop appropriate technologies for improved traditional medicines and promote research results. Prof. Essame Oyono was speaking last Friday January 10 during the institute's board meeting to evaluate the path covered and to endorse the plan of action for 2014. He said conscious of the fact that sustainable development passes through a better mastery of science and technology, efforts will be stepped up to enhance research and social development.

The intensification of research in the social science, medical and health sciences as well as monitoring industrial activity and protecting the environment against ionizing radiation, he said, will be undertaken. Other activities will include the development of enhanced and effective traditional medicines at low cost, setting up of a botanic garden to ensure a sustainable management and development of the country's medicinal plants.

The session chaired by IMPM's Board Chair, Prof. Rose Leke née Gana, also adopted a budget of FCFA 737 685 000 up from FCFA 656 110 000 of last year with which to carry on the projects. Of the amount, FCFA 224 250 000 will be used for investment while FCFA 513 435 000 will be used for the functioning of programmes.