Kenya has started preparations to host the 22nd Extraordinary Summit of the African Union (AU) on Manufacturing of Health Products and Technologies, scheduled to take place from December 3 to 5, 2026. Medical Services Principal Secretary Dr. Ouma Oluga on Wednesday met with a delegation from the World Bank to discuss arrangements for the high-level gathering, which is expected to attract African Heads of State, pharmaceutical manufacturers and other stakeholders in the health sector. The summit will focus on strengthening Africa’s capacity to manufacture medicines, medical supplies and other essential health products locally, while improving access to safe, quality and affordable healthcare commodities.
Africa Seeks to Reduce Dependence on Imported Medical Products
The meeting comes as African countries pursue strategies to reduce their reliance on imported medicines and health technologies by investing in domestic production and strengthening regional manufacturing capacity. According to the Ministry of Health, discussions between Dr. Oluga and the World Bank delegation focused on preparations for the summit and the continent’s broader ambition of becoming more self-reliant in producing essential health products. Expanding local manufacturing is expected to help African countries strengthen their health systems, improve the availability of essential medical supplies and reduce vulnerabilities associated with dependence on external suppliers.
Ministry of Health Officials Join Preparations
The meeting was also attended by Dr. Nazila Ganatra, the Director for Health Products and Technologies, alongside other Ministry of Health officials. The upcoming summit is expected to bring together governments, industry players and development partners to explore practical approaches to expanding pharmaceutical manufacturing across Africa. Participants are expected to discuss ways to strengthen regional production networks, encourage investment in the health manufacturing sector and improve access to essential medicines and technologies.
The gathering will provide an opportunity for African countries to identify collaborative solutions that can support sustainable local production and improve the continent’s preparedness to meet future health needs. As preparations continue, Kenya is positioning itself to host discussions aimed at advancing Africa’s health manufacturing ambitions and strengthening access to essential medical products across the continent.
