ADDIS ABABA – Ethiopia’s government is actively working to increase the local pharmaceutical industry’s market share to 47% as part of its mid-term health sector development plan, Health Minister Mekdes Daba disclosed at the Domestic Medical Supplies Production and Innovation Exhibition. The event, inaugurated by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed at Millennium Hall in Addis Ababa, showcased local medical products and innovation, aiming to boost domestic manufacturing and reduce reliance on imports.

According to Ethiopian News Agency, the government has implemented various policies and regulations aimed at making Ethiopia self-sufficient in medical and medicine supplies. This initiative has already seen significant progress, with the local production of medical products valued at $75 million this year, which has saved the country $53.1 million in imports. The domestic production of medicines has risen to 36% from just 8% previously due to governmental support of local manufacturers.

Furthermore, Minister Daba emphasized the ongoing efforts to integrate traditional medicine with modern medical science through scientific research, enhancing healthcare access and addressing major health challenges, including maternal and child health and disease prevention. The exhibition, under the theme “Our Health by Our Products,” runs until next Friday and features over 110 local manufacturers, offering networking opportunities for investors and discussions on further advancing Ethiopia’s healthcare sector.