System Archetypes as Drivers and Barriers for Spillover Prevention in Africa: A Case Study in Ghana

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Article

Authors

RICHARD Dery SUU-IRE ¹

Kwamina Ewur Banson ²

Amos Sarpong Agyei ³

Robin William Breen ⁴

Sherry Ama Mawuko ⁵

Ruth Nana Arthur ⁶

Gudjinu Horlali ⁷

Theophilus Odoom ⁸

Juliana Yartey Enos ⁹

Meyir Yiryele Ziekah ¹⁰

Anna Sekyibea Bekai ¹¹

Catherine Machalaba ¹²

¹ Legon Campus

² Ghana Atomic Energy Commission

³ School of Vetierinary Medicine. University of Ghana, Legon Accra

⁴ Nature for Health

⁵ School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ghana, Legon Accra

⁶ NADMO

⁷ Ghana Health Service

⁸ Veterinary Services Directoriate, MOFA

⁹ School of Public Health, University of Ghana

¹⁰ Wildlife Division, Forestry Commission,

¹¹ MESTI

¹² Nature For Health

10.22067/jstinp.2026.97622.1198

Abstract

The prevention of zoonotic spillovers in Africa is complex, involving diverse factors such as environmental degradation, political instability, food insecurity, and unsustainable agricultural practices. This study explores the application of system archetypes to understand and address the dynamics underlying zoonotic spillover risks, with a focus on Ghana. Using systems thinking, eleven archetypes were identified to capture recurring behaviours that influence spillovers. These include reinforcing feedback loops, limits to growth, and the tragedy of the commons, all of which highlight critical drivers of environmental pressure and public health risks. This approach enables a deeper understanding of interconnected challenges such as population growth, habitat destruction, and increased human-wildlife interactions that exacerbate zoonotic spillovers. By employing tools such as causal loop diagrams (CLDs) and mental models, this study emphasizes the importance of systemic interventions, proposing sustainable development strategies and collaborative policies for mitigating spillover risks. The findings underscore that a comprehensive systemic approach offers a more resilient path to preventing zoonotic outbreaks and promoting sustainable agriculture, wildlife conservation, and public health in Africa.

Keywords

Africa

Ghana

Zoonoses

Spillover Prevention

Systems Archetypes

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