From Vision to Reality: UNIDO Addresses Africa's Pharma Manufacturing Needs at AMMTEC

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania – 21 November 2024: The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) made a significant impact at the African Medicines Manufacturing Trade Exhibition and Conference (AMMTEC), presenting innovative tools and actionable solutions to strengthen Africa’s pharmaceutical manufacturing capacity. The side event, “Revitalizing the Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Plan for Africa for Pandemic Preparedness and Resilience: A Call to Action,” catalysed critical discussions and garnered immediate interest from industry leaders.

Transformative Approaches for Local Pharmaceutical Manufacturing

UNIDO introduced its Lean Local Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) Manufacturing approach, a model that has redefined efficient and sustainable API production by leveraging Lean Six Sigma principles and circular economy practices. This methodology enables local manufacturers to align with international quality standards, reduce import dependency, and enhance supply chain resilience. The approach resonated strongly with pharmaceutical leaders, sparking heightened interest in further collaboration.

Additionally, the Computer Model for Feasibility Analysis and Reporting (COMFAR) was unveiled as a vital tool for empowering pharmaceutical companies. COMFAR enables businesses to design compelling, bankable proposals that facilitate access to financing, a critical challenge for scaling operations. Following the event, African pharmaceutical companies submitted multiple requests for more information and support, underscoring the tool’s relevance and potential to drive transformative change in the region.

Tackling Africa’s Reliance on Imported Medicines

With up to 90% of pharmaceutical products and almost all vaccines imported, Africa’s healthcare systems remain vulnerable to global supply chain disruptions. UNIDO’s initiatives directly address these vulnerabilities by supporting local production capacity, ensuring health security, and fostering economic resilience.

Knowledge Exchange on Technology Transfer

UNIDO also facilitated a dynamic learning session on technology transfer, where participants exchanged practical insights on negotiation, partnership building, and scaling manufacturing operations. This session highlighted success stories and innovative strategies, offering a roadmap for advancing Africa’s pharmaceutical industry.

By equipping African manufacturers with practical tools and fostering strategic partnerships, UNIDO continues to make measurable strides towards transforming the continent’s pharmaceutical landscape.

For more information, please contact: a.rivera-rojas [at] unido.org