Report highlights role of generic drugmakers in expanding medicine access in Africa

The article highlights how growing rates of non-communicable diseases in Africa are creating a greater sense of urgency to address gaps in access to medicine across the continent, with generic medicine manufacturers playing a critical role.

It notes a key area of focus within the report, i.e., how increasing local manufacturing can help create a more stable supply of medicines. Specifically, it mentions the report’s finding that an increasing number of partnerships are focusing on building local capacity through technology transfer, regulatory support and production arrangements.

The article also mentions that access gaps cannot be solved by manufacturers alone. It highlights that coordinating procurement, harmonising regulations, reducing market fragmentation and directing investment towards critical manufacturing capacity, requiring collaboration from stakeholders across the public and private sectors.