Ministry of Health Signs MoU with Indian Company Akums Drugs and Pharmaceuticals Limited
Zambia’s Ministry of Health has entered into a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with India’s Akums Drugs and Pharmaceuticals Limited to establish a pharmaceutical manufacturing facility in Zambia.
The initiative is expected to boost the availability of essential medicines in the country while promoting local production and creating job opportunities.
Speaking at the MoU signing ceremony, Health Permanent Secretary for Donor Coordination, Dr. George Sinyangwe, emphasized the Zambian government’s commitment to improving healthcare services by ensuring essential medicines are more accessible and affordable.
He noted that the partnership with Akums Drugs will address delays and challenges Zambia has faced in sourcing medical supplies from abroad.
“The setup of this pharma facility by Akums will make it easier for Zambia to get essential medicines at a cheaper price and more readily,” Dr. Sinyangwe stated.
He highlighted that the Indian company would provide the necessary equipment and technology for local medicine production, while the Zambian government would ensure market support, policies, and the required land for the facility.
Akums Drugs and Pharmaceuticals Limited’s President for International Business, Ashok Saroha, expressed his appreciation for the Zambian government’s support, saying the partnership would not only serve Zambia but also provide essential medicines to neighboring countries facing similar supply challenges.
“This facility will not only serve the people of Zambia but also neighboring countries that suffer from delays in receiving essential medicines,” Mr. Saroha said. He further noted that the project would generate employment opportunities and help build a skilled workforce in Zambia’s pharmaceutical manufacturing sector.
The Zambia Development Agency (ZDA) Director General, Albert Halwampa, praised the MoU as a step forward in Zambia’s economic development. He stated that local pharmaceutical production would make it easier for Zambians to access essential medicines and help the country become a regional supplier.
Zambia’s High Commissioner to India, H.E. Percy Chanda, and Health Advisor at the Embassy, Prof. Victor Mukonka, were present at the signing ceremony, reinforcing the strong ties between Zambia and India in the health sector.
