3rd edition of West Pharma Health Care Expo kicks off in Accra

The 3rd Edition of the Pharmaceutical Medical and Healthcare (West Africa Pharma Healthcare Expo and Conference) commenced today May 8th, 2024, in Accra, marking a significant step towards enhancing quality healthcare delivery in Ghana and establishing the country as a pharmaceutical hub in Africa.

Organized by WegVoraus Exhibition under the auspices of the Ministry of Health, the three-day expo from (8th to 10th) aims to connect Ghanaian and West African pharmaceutical and medical healthcare companies with global suppliers, fostering collaboration and innovation in the pharmaceutical sector.

With over 100 exhibitors from India, Turkey, UK, Nigeria, and Ghana, the expo focuses on "E-Pharmacy and Digital Health," highlighting the importance of leveraging technology to improve healthcare services.

The event opened at the Accra International Conference Center, Grand Arena, and was inaugurated by the Minister-designate for Health, Hon. Bernard Oko-Boye.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Hon. Bernard Oko-Boye emphasized the significance of the expo in advancing Ghana's healthcare agenda. He highlighted the country's commitment to leveraging technology for healthcare delivery, citing initiatives such as the national health insurance scheme and the prescription system, which have played crucial roles in enhancing healthcare services. However, he acknowledged persistent challenges, particularly regarding data privacy, with only 40% of healthcare organizations having robust data protection systems in place.

Mr. Thomas James, Marketing Director of WAPHC Ghana WegVoraus, India, underscored the expo's role in fostering collaboration among stakeholders in the pharmaceutical and healthcare industry. He highlighted the importance of bringing together manufacturers, wholesalers, dealers, distributors, hospitals, and decision-makers to drive innovation and address the sector's evolving needs.

"The pharmaceutical medical and healthcare industry/sector of Ghana in West Africa is valued roughly at US$ 2 billion, with the majority of its product requirements met through imports," Mr. James stated.

He emphasized the need to bolster domestic production in the pharmaceutical sector and enhance local manufacturing capabilities to reduce dependency on imports.

Mr. Pharm Harrison Abutiate, Chairman of the Ghana National Chamber of Pharmacy, echoed similar sentiments, advocating for increased government focus on the pharmaceutical sector. He emphasized the expo's role in facilitating interactions and networking opportunities for chamber members with manufacturers, fostering a conducive environment for innovation and competitiveness in Ghana's pharmaceutical landscape.