ADDIS ABABA, 25 January 2013 – The launch of the Federation of African Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Associations (FAPMA) took place in Addis Ababa today. FAPMA is an umbrella organization that will provide the pharmaceutical manufacturing sector in Africa with a unified voice.

“We are united behind the common goal of developing a self-sustaining pharmaceutical manufacturing industry in Africa that not only contributes to the reduction of disease, but also drives economic development on the continent,” said Paul Lartey, newly elected Chairman of FAPMA.

On the occasion of the launch, a panel debated the private sector’s response to the challenges and opportunities facing Africa’s pharmaceutical industry.

The creation of FAPMA was welcomed by Juergen Reinhardt, the manager of a project to strengthen the local production of essential medicines in developing countries which is being implemented by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO).  Reinhardt said, “The private sector is a core partner in the implementation of the Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Plan for Africa-Business Plan,” adding, “UNIDO, the African Union Commission and other partners will be working together with FAPMA under this Plan to increase the role of medicines made in Africa in addressing the continent’s health challenges.”

Founding members of FAPMA include: the West African Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association (WAPMA), the Federation of East African Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Associations (FEAPM) and the Southern African Generic Medicines Association (SAGMA). FAPMA will be a central mouthpiece for advocacy and will promote collaboration between the regions in order to address the common challenges facing the sector.

Since the idea was born at a conference on pharmaceutical production in Africa in Cape Town in April 2011, UNIDO and other international partners have been supporting efforts to establish the Federation.   

For more information please contact:

Juergen Reinhardt
UNIDO Project Manager
Phone: +43-1-26026-3405
Email