Algiers – Minister of Health, Mohamed Sadik Ait Mesaudan, emphasized the critical role of domestic pharmaceutical production in achieving national health security and sustainable development. His remarks were delivered during the Joint African Ministerial Conference on National Pharmaceutical Production and Health Technologies.
The Minister stated that local drug manufacturing is no longer merely an industrial endeavor but a cornerstone of health security, economic progress, and social stability. He explained that strengthening national industries ensures consistent access to essential medicines, cost control, reduced supply chain disruptions, and the fight against counterfeit products. Furthermore, it boosts public confidence in the healthcare system.
Minister Ait Mesaudan highlighted the importance of establishing a modern and internationally aligned regulatory framework. This framework would ensure the development of the pharmaceutical and health product sectors based on sound scientific and legal foundations. He also stressed the need for developing structural industrial partnerships within the African continent.
“Africa cannot bridge the health gap without investing in scientific research, innovation, biotechnology, vaccine production, medical devices, and digital health technologies,” the Minister asserted. He further emphasized the crucial role of human capital development as a foundation for any successful industry. He called for enhanced training for pharmacists, engineers, biologists, chemists, technicians, and regulatory affairs experts.
The Minister concluded that empowering African nations to achieve self-sufficiency in the pharmaceutical sector and develop their healthcare systems in line with global standards is paramount. This requires a concerted effort to invest in local production and human capital.
