Africa faces more health crises than any other region, yet it remains heavily dependent on imported medicines and equipment — a vulnerability exposed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Nearly 80% of drugs used on the continent come from abroad, often causing delays and leaving health systems unprepared. Local pharmaceutical production could change that, ensuring quicker access to tailored treatments and boosting Africa’s capacity to manage future pandemic outbreaks. Although past initiatives failed due to weak execution, new efforts like the African Union’s priority product list offer hope. Success requires governments to treat local pharmaceutical manufacturing as a priority and support it through public investment, regulatory reforms, and public-private partnerships. With stronger political will and regional coordination, Africa can build a resilient health sector that prioritizes self-reliance, innovation, and long-term health security, particularly in an era of diminishing international aid.
SEMAFOR
