Special Advisor to the Executive Chairman of the Tobinco Group of Companies, Hasmukh Sidhpura has called on pharmaceutical companies in Ghana to work together to produce key raw materials locally, instead of relying heavily on imports.
He made this appeal during the maiden TMG National Health Dialogue organized by the Tobinco Media Group, which brought together major stakeholders in the health sector.
Mr. Sidhpura explained that although there are over 40 pharmaceutical companies in Ghana, many of them focus on packaging medicines using imported materials. He said this approach limits growth and makes the country dependent on foreign supplies, especially during global crises like COVID-19.
He urged manufacturers to invest in producing active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and other basic components locally. According to him, even a few companies joining forces to start such production could supply the entire local market and reduce costs.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Mark Kurt Nawani, Chairman of the Parliamentary Select Committee on Health, and Samuel Nana Amo Tobbin, Executive Director of the Tobinco Group of Companies.
Mr. Sidhpura also stressed the importance of healthcare professionals putting patients first. He encouraged doctors to prescribe medicines that are both effective and affordable, noting that healthcare is a unique field where human lives are at stake.
He added that Ghana can learn from countries like India, which built strong pharmaceutical industries over time by focusing on local production and strict quality standards.
The TMG National Health Dialogue aims to promote discussions and ideas that will improve healthcare delivery and strengthen Ghana’s pharmaceutical sector.
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