Leading health officials and pharmaceutical experts from across Africa have gathered in N’Djamena for the 25th International Pharmaceutical Forum, a landmark event focused on breaking down barriers to healthcare access and accelerating local drug production.

The forum, held under the theme “Strengthening healthcare access: opportunities and challenges of local manufacturing and hospital pharmacy”, marks a significant milestone for Chad, which previously hosted the 13th edition. Speaking on behalf of the President, Prime Minister Allah Maye Halina extended a warm welcome to delegates, emphasizing how their participation underscores Africa’s shared commitment to advancing health sector cooperation.

Building Africa’s pharmaceutical independence

Prime Minister Halina highlighted the urgent need for African nations to increase local production of essential medicines, vaccines, medical devices, and other critical health products. He stressed that self-sufficiency in pharmaceuticals is not just a strategic goal but a necessity to meet the continent’s growing healthcare demands. The government of Chad is actively reinforcing national health systems, expanding care access, and strengthening pharmaceutical infrastructure to achieve these objectives.

Collaborative problem-solving for urgent health challenges

Health Minister Dr. Abdelmadjid Abderahim Mahamat described the forum as a vital platform for exchanging ideas, sharing best practices, and forging lasting partnerships. He emphasized that participants must work together to address pressing issues such as ensuring the availability of quality medications, strengthening regulatory frameworks, enhancing workforce training, and driving innovation in pharmaceutical care.

A lifeline for patients and families

Laroussi Mustapha of InterOrdre framed the forum’s theme around human impact: “Behind every medication lies a patient, behind every pharmacy a family, and behind every decision, a life.” He underscored the central role of hospital pharmacies in safeguarding care quality and patient safety, calling them a cornerstone of public health and a source of hope for millions.

The forum serves as a high-level think tank, where stakeholders can co-create strategies to improve healthcare accessibility and build resilient, self-reliant health systems across Africa.