By Michael Omotosho |
Dr. Mohamed Yakub Janabi, WHO Regional Director for Africa has called for urgent action to strengthen Africa’s pharmaceutical and healthcare manufacturing capacity, warning that the continent cannot continue relying heavily on imported medicines and vaccines despite carrying a significant share of the global disease burden.
In a statement shared during high-level discussions in Nairobi, Kenya, Janabi said“Africa cannot continue to rely so heavily on imported medicines, vaccines and health products while carrying more than a quarter of the global disease burden.”
The health expert made the remarks while attending strategic deliberations alongside William Ruto and other development partners focused on advancing Africa’s healthcare sovereignty and industrial growth.
According to Janabi, the discussions centered on building a stronger and more self-sufficient healthcare system across the continent through investments in local pharmaceutical production, industrial expansion, and equitable access to essential medicines and vaccines.
He emphasized the need for African countries to collaborate on policies and investments that would reduce dependence on external supply chains while improving healthcare access for millions of people across the continent.
The Nairobi meeting also highlighted broader efforts aimed at strengthening Africa’s manufacturing ecosystem, boosting regional partnerships, and ensuring sustainable access to life-saving health products for vulnerable populations.
Share this
