Veep calls for quality focus as Ghana pushes 70% local drug production

Vice President Professor Jane Opoku-Agyemang has urged the Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana (PSGH) to uphold rigorous standards as the government sets a target to increase domestic medicine manufacturing to 70 per cent over the next five years.

Speaking at the opening of the PSGH’s 90th anniversary celebration and Annual General Meeting, held under the theme, “Science. Impact. Legacy: 90 Years of Pharmaceutical Excellence,” Prof. Opoku-Agyemang highlighted the pivotal role pharmacists play in the nation’s healthcare delivery system.

She noted that for many citizens, pharmacists are among the most accessible healthcare providers, making their expertise and integrity crucial as state-led healthcare initiatives expand across the country.

According to her, health policies such as Free Primary Healthcare and the Ghana Medical Trust Fund (MahamaCares) rely heavily on a competent and principled healthcare workforce to achieve maximum impact.

On industrial growth, the Vice President said increasing local drug production to 70 per cent would create significant opportunities for job creation, clinical research and economic expansion, while reducing the country’s reliance on imported pharmaceuticals.

However, she cautioned that the drive for self-reliance must not come at the expense of safety and precision.

“As we expand production, quality must remain paramount. Medicines made in Ghana must meet rigorous standards and compete confidently beyond our borders,” she stated.

Commending the Society on reaching its 90-year milestone, Prof. Opoku-Agyemang expressed confidence in the sector’s potential to contribute to a more resilient and innovative healthcare system in the country.