Ouagadougou: Pharmaceutical stakeholders held a panel on Saturday on the topic of pharmaceutical sovereignty on the theme: “Pharmaceutical industry: realities, challenges and prospects for local production in Burkina Faso.” As part of the celebration of the 25th anniversary of the pharmaceutical laboratory Galenique des medicaments modernes et traditionnelle (Gamet), the panel was organized to address the critical issues facing the pharmaceutical industry in Burkina Faso.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the pharmaceutical industry in Burkina Faso is tackling challenges related to the availability of raw materials, production and distribution equipment, and foreign competition. These issues were highlighted during the round table organized to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the Gamet laboratory, aiming to foster synergy among industry players.
Two panels provided a platform for members of the pharmaceutical industry, students, and distributors to discuss the realities, challenges, and future prospects of drug manufacturing in Burkina Faso. Dr. Anicet Sawadogo, Director General of the Gamet laboratory, emphasized the importance of inspiring local manufacturing initiatives, aligned with the vision of the country’s leadership.
Dr. Nedie Nao, president of the National Order of Pharmacists of Burkina Faso, highlighted the industry’s current shift towards achieving pharmaceutical sovereignty, with a focus on meeting the local population’s needs. Dr. Ismael Bidiga, president of the national union of pharmacists, stressed the significance of maintaining and supporting the pharmacy distribution network.
The event, chaired by the Minister of Health’s representative, Dr. Adjima Combari, underscored the necessity of strong local production support to achieve pharmaceutical sovereignty. Dr. Combari noted that recommendations from the roundtable would contribute to developing a robust roadmap for this vision.
The shared vision of pharmaceutical sovereignty was also echoed by Dr. Abdoulaye Konipo, a guest of honor from the Republic of Mali, who reinforced the importance of local pharmaceutical production for ensuring the availability of quality medicines.