April 19, 2024

There is a push for domestic pharmaceutical companies in South Africa to increase the production of antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) to create employment opportunities and enhance health security

A health advocacy organization has advocated for increased local production of antiretroviral (ARV) drugs in South Africa, not only to combat HIV/AIDS but also to stimulate economic growth in the pharmaceutical sector.
MMH & Partners Africa, a company dedicated to facilitating and establishing equitable access to healthcare products in Africa, highlights that local ARV producers currently supply only 51% of the government's drug tender, with the remaining 49% sourced from Indian manufacturers overseas.
The group argues that enhancing local production would be more beneficial for health security, as well as for various industries within the supply chain. Michael Mynhardt, co-founder and CEO of MMH & Partners Africa, emphasizes that the COVID-19 pandemic underscored the importance of ensuring access to pharmaceuticals and critical goods.
He asserts that while COVID-19 fades in prominence, the HIV/AIDS epidemic remains a significant challenge in South Africa. Mynhardt notes that the government's tender allocation for ARVs demonstrates a commitment to strengthening domestic capabilities and addressing healthcare needs.
By allocating 51% of production capacity to local manufacturers and 49% to Indian counterparts, the government acknowledges the importance of fostering a resilient and self-reliant pharmaceutical industry.
Mynhardt emphasizes that local production not only creates jobs and boosts ARV production but also benefits adjacent industries. Moreover, he argues that producing ARVs locally allows for distribution to other African countries, aligning with the Africa CDC's vision for equitable access to medicine.
He concludes that striving for self-reliance in medicinal needs enhances resilience to global disruptions, fosters economic development, and promotes long-term health security.

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