DNE Africa – Rwanda and the African Union (AU) on Friday inaugurated the African Medicines Agency (AMA) headquarters in Kigali. The launch marks a significant step in establishing the continental regulatory body for medical products.
Speaking at the inauguration, Rwandan Health Minister Sabin Nsanzimana highlighted the agency’s timely arrival. “For Africa, this agency will support the growth of local pharmaceutical production and catalyze trade,” he said. “For Rwanda in particular, the agency will strengthen our efforts and is expected to become a hub for healthcare services, research and quality medicine in Africa.”
Minata Samate Cessouma, AU commissioner for health, humanitarian affairs and social development, echoed the significance of the agency’s launch. “The inauguration of the AMA headquarters marks a significant milestone for healthcare on the continent,” Cessouma said. “We are grateful to Rwanda for its commitment to host the headquarters.”
The African Medicines Agency , as determined by the African Union, will evaluate medical products for the treatment of priority diseases. It will also regularly inspect, coordinate and share information about products that are authorized for marketing.
Moreover, officials stressed the agency’s role in facilitating pandemic preparedness, expanding access to medicines, supporting collaboration among regulators, and building resilient health systems.
Rwanda, selected as the host nation at the 2022 African Union Executive Council meeting in Lusaka, Zambia, will facilitate the African Medicines Agency pivotal role in standardizing and regulating medicines across Africa.
Furthermore, the handover included a fully equipped building, vehicles, and essential resources to support the agency’s mission.
