Ghana’s Health Minister, Kwabena Mintah Akando, has called on African countries to prioritise the production and consumption of medicines manufactured on the continent. He stated that recent global health crises exposed Africa’s overdependence on external sources for essential medicines and medical supplies. This situation raises significant concerns for a continent capable of developing its own pharmaceutical industry.
Mr. Akando noted that Africa’s inability to fully rely on locally manufactured medicines and treatments during health emergencies was alarming. He stressed that this situation requires urgent action from member states. The Minister made these remarks while addressing the ongoing Africa Union Extraordinary Health Summit in Accra on July 21, 2026.
This push for pharmaceutical self-reliance aligns with broader efforts to strengthen Africa's economic sovereignty. Ghana, like many African nations, has faced challenges in securing critical supplies during global disruptions, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. The call reflects a growing recognition that robust local manufacturing is crucial for both public health and economic stability. It also supports the continent's long-term development goals by creating jobs and fostering technological advancement.
Minister Akando emphasised the need to strengthen Africa's health sovereignty. He stated, "Our continent continues to consume medicines, vaccines, and health technology that are overwhelmingly produced elsewhere. The lessons from recent global crises remain fresh in our minds; the next emergency must never again find Africa waiting at the back of the queue." This highlights the strategic importance of reducing reliance on foreign suppliers.
African governments must demonstrate stronger commitment towards promoting local pharmaceutical production. This move would enhance health security and reduce the continent’s vulnerability to global supply chain disruptions. Investing in local manufacturing, regulatory harmonisation, and stronger regional markets are key steps. It also means building confidence to produce what African people need more within the continent. This strategy aims to create resilient supply chains and foster economic independence.
The Minister stressed that investing in African-made medicines would not only strengthen healthcare systems but also support economic growth and self-reliance across the continent. This initiative could lead to significant job creation in the pharmaceutical sector. It would also reduce the outflow of capital currently spent on imported medicines. This aligns with Ghana's broader industrialisation agenda, seeking to add value to local resources and expertise.
The Africa Union Extraordinary Health Summit, where these remarks were made, brings together Heads of State and Health Ministers. Its purpose is to advance Universal Health Coverage and map strategies to end AIDS and tuberculosis by 2030. Key leaders attending include AU Commission leadership and Tanzania's President Samia Suluhu Hassan. President Hassan is leading a side event focused on maternal, newborn, and child survival. The summit aims to adopt a fully costed continental roadmap for improving health outcomes and strengthening health systems across Africa. This comprehensive approach underscores the interconnectedness of health, economic development, and regional cooperation.
The implications of this call are far-reaching for Ghana and the wider African continent. Increased investment in local pharmaceutical production could attract foreign direct investment and foster technology transfer. It would also necessitate significant regulatory reforms to ensure quality and safety standards. Decision-makers will need to address challenges such as funding, research and development capabilities, and market access. The success of this initiative will depend on strong political will and coordinated efforts across African nations.