Attendance an online digital event on May. 23, 2024 entitled “Closing the medicines supply gap in the African region: The East African perspective”. The event was offered by International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP). 

Description: The increasing population in East Africa is placing massive pressure on the health sections of Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya both organizationally and financially. More than 90% of medications in the area are imported, resulting in frequent stock-outs of substantial medicines and medicinal supplies, triggering health problems. Diagnostic equipment is oftentimes out of usage because of lack of repair, putting further load on the healthcare system. 

The private section is viewed as pivotal in identifying these obstacles, with the East African Community recommending these policies to assist local pharmaceutical manufacturing. Difficulties such as limited arrival to regulatory and capital worries hinder advancement. In spite of these challenges, there are chances for foreign investment in medicinal equipment production, pharmaceutical manufacturing, as well healthcare logistics systems, which could induce economic growth, develop arrival to medications, and tackle non-communicable illnesses. 

Moderator:

- Genuine Desireh, Educational partnerships and projects manager, FIP, The Netherlands.

Facilitator:

- Ruben Viegas, Humanitarian and Sustainability Programme Manager, FIP, The Netherlands.

Panellists:

-  Darius Uzabakiriho,  COO and Co-Founder/ Treasurer,  Irebe Biotech Ltd/ Rwanda National Pharmacy Council, Rwanda.

-  Jocelyn Chaibva, Pharmacist Director, Nu Fife Avenue Pharmacy, Harare, Zimbabwe.

-  David Taylor, Emeritus Professor, Pharmaceutical and Public Health Policy, University College London, United Kingdom.

- Mavere Tukai, Director General, Medical Stores Department (MSD), Tanzania.

-  Jeremy Holmes, Former CEO, RPS, United Kingdom.