The Ghanaian government has officially launched the Cabinet-approved Ghana Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Policy, an initiative aimed at doubling domestic medicine production, fostering skilled employment, and establishing the country as a primary pharmaceutical hub in West Africa. Minister for Trade, Agribusiness and Industry, Elizabeth Ofosu-Adjare, introduced the policy during a launch event in Accra on Wednesday, October 28, 2026. The initiative is designed to mitigate the country’s reliance on imported pharmaceuticals, which currently constitute approximately 70% of the national supply. Under the new framework, Ghana aims to increase the market share of locally manufactured medicines from 30% to 60% as an intermediate goal, moving toward a long-term target of 70% self-sufficiency as set by President John Mahama. “Medicines are not ordinary goods. A country that cannot produce its own essential medicines leaves its health, economy, and sovereignty vulnerable,” Mrs. Ofosu-Adjare stated. The policy establishes a coordinated framework to align investment, regulatory standards, public procurement, and skills development. It is built upon six key pillars, including the enhancement of product quality to meet international standards, the expansion of market access for domestic producers, and the provision of affordable, long-term financing. To support these goals, the government intends to assist local manufacturers in securing World Health Organisation (WHO) Good Manufacturing Practice certification and prequalification. Furthermore, the government plans to leverage public procurement and the National Health Insurance Scheme to prioritize locally produced medicines. Regarding financial support, the policy promotes partnerships with Development Bank Ghana, the Ghana EXIM Bank, and the Ghana Industrial Pharmaceutical Association (GIPA) to facilitate access to capital. Beyond increasing production capacity, the policy seeks to transition the industry from simple packaging to the manufacturing of active pharmaceutical ingredients, excipients, and vaccines. Additional priorities include strengthening the link between academia and industry, providing specialized training for clinical pharmacists, and expanding export reach through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The launch was attended by representatives from the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Finance, the Food and Drugs Authority, the National Vaccine Institute, and international partners, including the World Health Organisation, the European Union, and GIZ. The government anticipates that the policy will bolster local manufacturing capacity and provide Ghanaian pharmaceutical businesses with the necessary support to compete in regional markets.
Article source: My Joy Online | Image credit: My Joy Online