Bridging ethics and culture: a co-created, culturally sensitive informed consent framework for research in Bimoba and Mamprusi communities in Ghana

Informed consent (IC) is a cornerstone of ethical research, yet standard models grounded in Western, individual-focused principles often require contextual adaptation in collectivist settings. This study co-created a culturally responsive IC framework for research with the Bimoba and Mamprusi ethnic groups in Ghana, operationalizing respect for autonomy in ways that reflect local values and decision-making norms. We employed a qualitative, cross-sectional design involving interviews and focus group discussions with community leaders, members, and stakeholders from academia, NGOs, and ethics committees. Thematic analysis identified culturally endorsed recruitment practices, resulting in a four-step framework: community entry, independent mediation at households, invitation of eligible participants, and a culturally embedded, multi-step consent process. The framework was pilot-tested in four communities and developed through a collaborative, multistakeholder process. While grounded in IC principles, the framework reflects broader community engagement values, reinforcing relational autonomy, trust, and cultural legitimacy. Rather than rejecting standard models, it offers a context-sensitive adaptation that enables ethical and legitimate recruitment. This study informs research ethics in the Global South and offers practical guidance for researchers, ethics committees, and institutions in similar contexts.