N’Djamena hosts landmark international pharmaceutical forum

The 25th edition of the International Pharmaceutical Forum has opened its doors in N’Djamena, positioning Chad at the center of Africa’s healthcare transformation. This high-level gathering brings together pharmaceutical experts, health professionals, and government representatives from across the continent to address critical challenges in medicine access and local drug production.

Building Africa’s pharmaceutical independence

The forum’s central theme focuses on expanding healthcare access through increased local pharmaceutical manufacturing. Speakers emphasized the urgent need for African nations to develop their own production capacities for essential medicines, vaccines, and medical supplies.

The Prime Minister of Chad, representing the President at the opening ceremony, welcomed delegates from brother nations, highlighting this collaborative effort as vital for continental health security. The government official stressed that this gathering represents more than just a professional meeting—it’s a commitment to improving healthcare outcomes for all Africans.

From discussion to action: strengthening health systems

The International Pharmaceutical Forum serves as both a scientific exchange platform and a policy-shaping arena. Participants are working to translate theoretical discussions into practical solutions that will:

• Enhance medication accessibility across Africa
• Improve pharmaceutical regulatory frameworks
• Develop workforce training programs
• Encourage innovation in medical production

The Chadian Minister of Public Health and Prevention outlined how his country is implementing these priorities through concrete initiatives to strengthen national healthcare infrastructure and expand pharmaceutical capabilities.

Hospital pharmacy: the cornerstone of healthcare delivery

Representatives from pharmacy professional organizations emphasized that hospital pharmacies play a crucial role in ensuring medication safety and treatment quality. They noted that decisions made in these facilities directly impact patient outcomes and family wellbeing across the continent.

This year’s forum theme, “Strengthening Healthcare Access: Opportunities and Challenges of Local Manufacturing and Hospital Pharmacy”, reflects the growing recognition that pharmaceutical sovereignty is essential for Africa’s health independence.

The four-day event will conclude with actionable recommendations that participating nations can immediately begin implementing to improve healthcare access and build resilient pharmaceutical sectors across the continent.