Dr Mahamudu Bawumia Vows to Transform Ghana into a Pharmaceutical Powerhouse

Revolutionizing Ghana’s Pharmaceutical Sector

A Vision for Growth

Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, also the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Flagbearer, has articulated a bold vision to position Ghana as a pharmaceutical hub in West Africa. He aims to achieve this by offering financial support and incentives to the local pharmaceutical industry, fostering domestic manufacturing of medicines.

Policy Frameworks for Success

Dr Bawumia pledges to introduce robust policy frameworks aimed at bolstering the pharmaceutical sector’s growth and ensuring it serves the interests of Ghanaians. His administration is committed to creating an enabling environment conducive to the industry’s prosperity.

Reducing Dependency on Imports

Currently, Ghana heavily relies on imported medicines, with approximately 70% of its supply coming from abroad. Dr Bawumia aims to reverse this trend by promoting local production, thereby reducing dependency and enhancing self-sufficiency.

Harnessing Ghana’s Potential

Addressing the Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana in Accra, Dr Bawumia emphasized Ghana’s comparative advantage in pharmaceutical services within the Sub-region. He vows to harness this potential to benefit the nation and its citizens.

Investing in Specialized Training

Recognizing the importance of skilled professionals in the pharmaceutical sector, Dr Bawumia supports the establishment of specialized training centers for pharmaceutical specialists. He advocates redirecting government scholarships towards essential skills development.

Creating Pharmaceutical Enclaves

To further stimulate local manufacturing, Dr Bawumia proposes the establishment of pharmaceutical enclaves or parks. These dedicated zones will facilitate the production of essential medicines within the country’s borders, promoting economic growth and self-reliance.

Tax Incentives and Policy Reforms

Dr Bawumia reaffirms his commitment to implementing tax reliefs and incentives for individuals and businesses in the pharmaceutical sector. He advocates for a flat tax rate and lower import duties to stimulate business activities and drive growth.

Enhancing Healthcare Access

In line with his vision, Dr Bawumia supports the periodic review of the medicine list of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) to ensure access to new and essential medicines. He also acknowledges the need for innovative approaches to healthcare delivery, such as e-pharmacy platforms and medical drone technology.

Engagement with Stakeholders

During the interaction with the Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana, Dr Bawumia welcomed feedback, suggestions, and solutions from industry stakeholders. He underscored the importance of collaboration in addressing the challenges facing the pharmaceutical sector.

Conclusion: A Path Towards Prosperity

Dr Mahamudu Bawumia’s commitment to revitalizing Ghana’s pharmaceutical industry reflects a bold step towards economic growth, self-sufficiency, and improved healthcare access. With strategic initiatives and stakeholder engagement, Ghana is poised to emerge as a leading pharmaceutical powerhouse in the West African region.