Africa’s quest to strengthen local pharmaceutical production has moved beyond promises, with President John Mahama of Ghana urging leaders to accelerate action across the continent.
Speaking at the African Union Extraordinary Summit on Day Two, President Mahama said Africa must reduce its dependence on imported medicines and medical supplies by expanding local pharmaceutical manufacturing and industrial development.
Mahama told Heads of State and government that the continent’s continued reliance on foreign sources for essential health commodities leaves many countries exposed to serious risks. He said building domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing capacity is key to improving health security, supporting economic growth and creating employment opportunities for Africa’s expanding youth population.
The Ghanaian leader also drew attention to the decline in development assistance for health, warning that many African nations still rely heavily on external funding to sustain their healthcare systems.
Describing the current situation as a turning point, Mahama said Africa must embrace homegrown solutions to strengthen its healthcare sector and secure its future.
He declared that Africa’s plan to establish a strong pharmaceutical manufacturing industry is no longer “a mere scribble on paper” but a vision gradually becoming reality.
Mahama urged African leaders to match their pledges with decisive measures, saying, “Africa’s health future depends on bold decisions that deliver real results.”