Algiers, Algeria – Participants at the African Ministerial Conference on Local Pharmaceutical Production and Health Technologies adopted the ‘Algiers Declaration’ on Friday, marking a significant step towards bolstering the continent’s health sovereignty.
The declaration serves as a common framework for strengthening the African pharmaceutical industry and reducing reliance on imports. It aims to unify efforts across the continent to develop robust local manufacturing capabilities for essential medicines and health technologies.
The ‘Algiers Declaration’ underscores the importance of collaborative action among African nations to overcome the challenges hindering the growth of the pharmaceutical sector. Key areas of focus include harmonizing regulatory frameworks, promoting technology transfer, and fostering investment in research and development.
By prioritizing local production, African countries aim to enhance access to affordable and quality-assured medicines for their populations. This initiative is particularly crucial in addressing public health emergencies and ensuring a more resilient healthcare system across the continent.
DZWatch understands that the declaration also emphasizes the need for capacity building and skills development within the African pharmaceutical workforce. This includes training programs for researchers, manufacturers, and regulatory personnel, to ensure the sustainability and competitiveness of the local industry.
The adoption of the ‘Algiers Declaration’ represents a renewed commitment by African nations to prioritize health security and self-sufficiency. It is expected to pave the way for increased investment, innovation, and collaboration in the pharmaceutical sector, ultimately benefiting the health and well-being of the African people.
