From Bench to Bedside: A Policy Analysis of Medical Research Translation in Côte d'Ivoire,

Translating biomedical research into clinical practice and health policy remains a significant challenge across Africa. Côte d'Ivoire has developed medical research infrastructure, but the processes for moving scientific discoveries, particularly in obstetrics and gynaecology, into implementation are poorly defined, limiting improvements in health outcomes. This policy analysis critically examines the institutional frameworks, funding mechanisms, and stakeholder dynamics that either facilitate or impede the translation of medical research into health policy and practice in Côte d'Ivoire, with a focus on obstetrics and gynaecology. A qualitative policy analysis was conducted. This comprised a desk review of national policy documents, research strategies, and health sector plans. Semi-structured interviews were held with key informants from government, research institutions, healthcare facilities, and non-governmental organisations. Data were analysed thematically. A dominant theme was a critical lack of sustained funding and dedicated institutional pathways for moving research into policy. Although research productivity has grown, most interviewed researchers reported no formal process for policy engagement. Translation efforts were largely ad hoc, relying on individual researcher advocacy rather than systemic mechanisms. The ecosystem for research translation in Côte d'Ivoire is fragmented and under-institutionalised. Without structured processes, the potential of local medical research to inform evidence-based policy and clinical care in obstetrics and gynaecology remains underutilised. Establish a national knowledge translation platform under the Ministry of Health. Mandate and fund policy-brief development as a core component of publicly funded research grants. Create formal secondment programmes between research institutions and the health ministry’s policy directorates. knowledge translation, health policy, research utilisation, maternal health, Côte d'Ivoire, West Africa This analysis provides a systematic examination of the barriers to research translation in Côte d'Ivoire, offering evidence to inform the development of more effective institutional structures and policies.