Minister of Health praises Addo-Agyekum for role in Ghana’s pharmaceuticals service

The Minister of Health, Hon. Dr. Bernard Okoe Boye, has lauded the CEO of Kofikrom Pharmacy, Dr. Kofi Addo-Agyekum, for his contribution to healthcare services in Ghana. In a speech delivered on his behalf on October 12, 2024 during the commissioning of Kofikrom Pharmacy’s new ultra-modern retail outlet at South La, Accra, the Minister praised Kofikrom Pharmacy’s innovative approach to healthcare delivery and its role in enhancing access to quality medicines for Ghanaians.

“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Kofikrom Pharmacy and my dear brother, Kofi, on the occasion of the opening of this impressive facility. Your unwavering dedication to providing quality healthcare services to our communities is remarkable, and your contribution is helping us advance towards universal health coverage,” said Dr. Okoe Boye.

He further commended the pharmacy’s embrace of technology and innovation, which he emphasized aligns with the government’s vision for a more sustainable and inclusive healthcare system. The Minister acknowledged the role Kofikrom plays in Ghana’s pharmaceutical supply chain, providing affordable and efficacious medicines to patients across the country.

“Your commitment to embracing innovation and technology positions you as a key partner in our quest to enhance healthcare delivery, and I urge you to continue leveraging these tools for the benefit of our communities,” he added.

Also speaking at the event, Dr. Kofi Addo-Agyekum recounted the macro economic challenges the pharmaceutical industry is confronted with as well as the ravaging effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. He also noted that the pandemic, though devastating, presented an opportunity for growth and innovation. The call from the President, H.E. Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, for the pharmaceutical industry to help in the fight against the pandemic led to Kofikrom starting a small-scale pharmaceutical manufacturing unit.

"The COVID-19 pandemic became a blessing in the face of adversity," Dr. Addo-Agyekum stated. "The President's call to support the fight against the pandemic led us to start local manufacturing, adding over 25 products to our offering."

Dr. Addo-Agyekum further praised the FDA's efficient registration process during the period, noting, "They registered our COVID-19 preventive products in just one week!"

He also acknowledged government’s tax reliefs in VAT exemptions on pharmaceutical manufacturing inputs and selected finished imported pharmaceutical products which reduced medicine prices for patients.

Dr. Addo-Agyekum however bemoaned the recent revocation of discounts on benchmark values for medicines and appealed for its reintroduction: "We pray that the discounts on benchmark values will be reintroduced to make medicines more affordable," Dr. Addo-Agyekum stressed.

The Minister for Public Enterprises, Hon. Joseph Cudjoe, speaking at the event, commended Kofikrom Pharmacy for their ultra-modern pharmacy and encouraged them to fully embrace digitalization in accordance with government’s agenda.