COVID-19 became a blessing in the face of adversity - Dr Addo-Agyekum

The Chief Executive Officer of KofiKrom Pharmacy, Dr. Kofi Addo-Agyekum, has revealed that the COVID-19 pandemic influenced the company's small-scale manufacturing plant setup in Accra.

Speaking during the opening of its ultra-modern office in Accra on October 12, 2024, Dr. Addo-Agyekum reflected on the challenges the pharmaceutical industry had faced, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

He noted that the pandemic, though devastating, presented an opportunity for growth and innovation.

The call from Ghana’s President, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, for local industries to step up their games during the pandemic led to KofiKrom starting a small-scale pharmaceutical manufacturing unit, adding 25 new products to its offerings.

"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 offerings."

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

He also acknowledged government tax reliefs, which reduced medicine prices for patients.

"We pray that the discounts on benchmark values will be reintroduced to make medicines more affordable," Dr. Addo-Agyekum stressed.

Reflecting on this growth, Dr. Addo-Agyekum stressed KofiKrom’s mission to become a centre of leadership in healthcare, not just in Ghana, but globally.

He spoke of the company’s commitment to providing quality pharmaceutical products and services to patients nationwide.

He also thanked his team, suppliers, and customers, crediting them with the success of the KofiKrom brand.

The new retail division, located in South La, Accra, represents KofiKrom’s latest venture in its expansion plans.

Dr. Addo-Agyekum stressed that this retail outlet would offer innovative services, including online orders, 24-hour operations, and home delivery, setting it apart from traditional pharmacies. He emphasized that the retail division is not only about providing medicines but also about enhancing patient care and satisfaction through modern pharmaceutical practices.

“Our service offering by retail is ultra-modern, not in physical structure but in the special service we offer,” Dr. Addo-Agyekum said.

“We endeavour to render online, delivery, and 24-hour service to complement the already existing pharmaceutical services and promise to do that to the best of our abilities.”

Throughout his speech, Dr. Addo-Agyekum expressed gratitude to his family, especially his wife, Ama Achiaa, and his extended family for their support.

He also paid tribute to his parents and grandparents, acknowledging their sacrifices and contributions to his success.

In particular, he honoured his late grandmother, Obaapanyin Felicia Akosua Agyarkobea, by dedicating the new retail pharmacy in her memory.

“I acknowledge the contribution of my beloved fairy grandmother, Maame Akosua,” he said. “This special recognition of her contribution is divine and has to be acknowledged as such and respected at all times.”

Looking ahead, Dr. Addo-Agyekum spoke about KofiKrom’s ongoing efforts to improve the pharmaceutical supply chain in Ghana.

He underlined the importance of proper storage and transportation of medicines, highlighting KofiKrom’s compliance with regulatory requirements for maintaining the quality and efficacy of its products.

He called for industry-wide adherence to best practices in medicine transport, stressing that pharmaceuticals should be handled with care and professionalism to ensure patient safety.

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