Algiers, Algeria – African healthcare systems are facing increasing threats to their resilience, requiring immediate and sustained action to bolster local pharmaceutical production and technological capabilities. This warning was issued by the Minister of Pharmaceutical Industry, Wassim Kouideri, during the African Ministerial Conference on Local Pharmaceutical Production and Health Technologies held in Algiers.
Speaking at the conference, Minister Kouideri emphasized the critical need to strengthen the continent’s capacity to manufacture essential medicines and utilize advanced medical technologies domestically. He highlighted that the fragility of African healthcare systems is exacerbated by external shocks, price volatility, and the influx of substandard products.
“The resilience of African healthcare systems is under threat,” Kouideri stated, pointing to the continent’s heavy reliance on imports. He revealed that pharmaceutical imports currently account for over 70% of the drugs consumed, 99% of vaccines, and 90% of medical devices used across Africa.
The conference culminated in the adoption of the ‘Algiers Declaration,’ a commitment by African nations to prioritize and accelerate the development of local pharmaceutical manufacturing and health technology sectors. This declaration signals a unified effort to reduce dependence on foreign imports and build more robust and self-sufficient healthcare systems across the continent. The move aims to ensure access to quality, affordable medicines and healthcare technologies for all Africans, regardless of their socioeconomic status.
Experts at the conference underscored the importance of fostering innovation, attracting investment, and strengthening regulatory frameworks to support the growth of local pharmaceutical industries. Collaboration between governments, the private sector, and research institutions will be crucial in achieving these goals. The long-term vision is to transform Africa from a net importer to a key player in the global pharmaceutical landscape, ensuring the health and well-being of its growing population.
