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Local manufacturing, local supply chains and health security in Africa: lessons from COVID-19

Year: 2021

Type: article

Abstract: African commentators have long emphasised the importance of local manufacturing for local health security, but the argument has struggled to gain an international hearing. \n \nCOVID-19 has, however, demonstrated the health dangers from extreme import dependence and low purchasing power; it has also shown the scope and capability for local industrial innovation. \n \nLocal innovation and manufacturing scale-up during the pandemic was facilitated by adaptable government procurement policies and a health research base with strong links to manufacturing. \n \nConstraints included lack of local testing and accreditation facilities, and skill and finance shortages. \n \nAfrican researchers and planners should be heard and supported when focusing on localising supply chains and tackling severe concentration risk in the interests of local health security.

Source: BMJ Global Health

DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2021-006362

Authors: Geoffrey Banda, Julius Mugwagwa, Cecilia Wanjala, Maureen Mackintosh, Dinar Kale

Institutions: University of Edinburgh, University College London, Kenya Medical Research Institute, The Open University

Language: English

Topic: Pharmaceutical Economics and Policy

Subfield: Economics and Econometrics

Field: Economics, Econometrics and Finance

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Good health and well-being, Decent work and economic growth

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,679