AUDA-NEPAD: Access to medicines – A national and continental security issue

Update: You can watch the webinar recording here.

The African continent depends on imports for over 80% of its medicines needs. In most sub-Saharan countries, 100% of vaccines, health technologies, and medical devices are imported from other countries. However, manufacturing medicines locally can lead to reduced costs and improved supply.

Further, when local researchers have the capacity to conduct their own studies, they can focus on relevant health issues in the context of their own country or region, rather than applying findings from studies in Western populations.

This meeting will focus on the importance of building local pharmaceutical capabilities as a means of contributing to medicine security in Africa. 

Jayasree has been invited as the keynote speaker, and will discuss the role of pharmaceutical companies in capacity building across Africa, while addressing local needs and prioritising the long-term sustainability of capacity improvements. 

Speakers include:

• Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO, Regional Office for Africa

• Dr. John Nkengasong, Director, African Centres for Disease Control and Prevention

• Mrs. Mariama Cisse, Director, Social Affairs Department- African Union Commission

The webinar will take place at 15:00 South Africa time.