Aspen Pharmacare is working with the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention to expand vaccine manufacturing across Africa, as governments and health organisations seek to reduce dependence on imported medical supplies.

The discussions are focused on building long-term pharmaceutical production capacity on the continent.

The initiative follows lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic, when African countries faced major supply shortages and limited access to vaccines.

Health officials say increasing local production is critical for improving healthcare security and emergency preparedness.

Aspen Pharmacare has invested heavily in sterile manufacturing facilities and supply chain infrastructure in South Africa, positioning itself as one of Africa’s leading pharmaceutical producers.

The company believes regional manufacturing can support both local healthcare systems and export opportunities.

Executives also said the discussions involve financing models, procurement agreements and risk-sharing strategies aimed at making vaccine manufacturing commercially sustainable over the long term.

Governments are increasingly supporting efforts to strengthen healthcare independence.

Analysts say the project represents a major step toward building Africa’s pharmaceutical industry.

Expanding local production could improve healthcare resilience, create jobs and reduce future dependence on overseas medical suppliers.

Source: Reuters