Africa’s regulatory systems must work more closely to improve access to quality-assured medicines and health technologies.

In a panel discussion on “The Future of Pharma Regulation in Africa: From National Systems to One African Medicines Market,” on 29 September 2029, Dr Wilfred Ochieng, representing the Pharmacy and Poisons Board, highlighted the importance of regulatory harmonization, reliance, work-sharing and digitalization.

He noted that eliminating duplication and strengthening collaboration among national regulatory authorities, regional bodies and the African Medicines Agency would support faster, more predictable and equitable access to health products without compromising quality, safety or efficacy.

For PPB, regulatory harmonisation must ultimately improve patient access across Africa.