The Medical for Quality Healthcare in Zambia (MQHZ) has hailed the government’s pronouncement to begin local manufacturing of more than 750 essential medicines and medical supplies, describing it as a transformative step toward national health self-reliance.
Youth, Sport and Arts Minister Elvis Nkandu earlier announced that Zambia will soon begin manufacturing over 750 essential medicines and medical supplies locally, a move expected to boost national health resilience and reduce dependence on imports.
This follows the commissioning of a state-of-the-art pharmaceutical manufacturing facility, to be located in the Lusaka South Multi-Facility Economic Zone.
Speaking in an interview with Money News, MQHZ Director General Dr. Quince Mwabu said the move represents a significant milestone for a country that has long depended on imported medical products.
“This development marks a transformative step toward self-reliance in the healthcare sector,” Dr. Mwabu said. “For a country that has historically relied heavily on imported medical products, the ability to produce essential medicines locally represents a major advancement in national health security.”
Dr. Mwabu added that the establishment of a robust local pharmaceutical manufacturing industry will not only strengthen the healthcare system but also contribute to broader economic growth.
“The local pharmaceutical manufacturing sector will generate skilled employment, reduce foreign exchange outflows, and stimulate innovation in medical science and technology,” he explained. “With the right quality and regulatory systems in place, Zambia has the potential to serve as a pharmaceutical production hub for the Southern African region.”
However, Dr. Mwabu cautioned that the benefits of this initiative must reach every citizen, particularly those in remote and underserved areas.
“It is imperative that improved access to essential medicines is extended to rural and underserved communities, where access to quality healthcare has often been limited,” he said.
He further urged all stakeholders to maintain a strong focus on regulatory compliance, quality assurance, and equitable distribution, emphasizing that sustainable impact will depend on effective coordination among government, industry, and regulatory bodies.
Meanwhile, Pharmaceutical Society of Zambia (PSZ) President Keegan Mwape said the Society is still analysing the government’s announcement to determine its potential impact on private pharmaceutical companies.
“We are reviewing the details to assess whether and to what extent private pharmaceutical companies will be affected,” Mr. Mwape stated.
