Top 50 Local Pharmaceutical Manufacturers in Africa

In Summary

• According to recent data, Africa spends around $17 billion annually on importing pharmaceutical products, with a significant portion of this coming from India.
• Reports indicate that 90% of the drugs consumed in sub-Saharan Africa are imported, but initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) aim to boost intra-African pharmaceutical trade and reduce reliance on external imports.
• There are about 375 pharmaceutical manufacturers in Africa; with South Africa, Nigeria, and Egypt having the highest number of plants.
• With a market worth over $50 billion, Africa needs more local pharmaceutical manufacturers to strengthen its health systems and reduce the importation of medicines and vaccines.

Deep Dive!!

The local market for medicines and vaccines in Africa is currently valued at approximately $50 billion, and the demand for pharmaceutical products increases yearly at a geometric progression. With reports revealing that there are only about 375 local pharmaceutical manufacturers in the continent, the need for drastic measures to increase the number of local manufacturers in the continent is evident.

In comparison, China and India, each with roughly the same population as Africa have as many as 5,000 and 10,500 local pharmaceutical manufacturers, respectively, going by a 2019 McKinsey report – the number would have doubled by now. Despite having a relatively low number of local pharmaceutical manufacturers in Africa, the primary focus is on packaging and labelling, with limited capacity for active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) production, and only a few plants involved in full drug substance manufacturing.

Even though a majority of the drugs and vaccines used in the country are still imported from outside the continent, it is important to note that the overall African pharmaceutical sector is growing. African countries and institutions are making significant efforts to develop the pharmaceutical sector in the continent; with local manufacturers are spreading their reach across the continent to increase their capacity for API production and drug substance manufacturing.

In the same vein, the African Union (AU) has established a partnership with African Vaccine Manufacturing (PAVM), setting the goal of enabling the African vaccine manufacturing industry to develop, produce, and supply over 60% of the total vaccine doses required on the continent by 2040, with an interim goal of 30% by 2030. In addition, the African Development Bank (AfDB) has also taken a leadership role, developing a 2030 Continental Pharmaceutical and Vaccine Manufacturing Vision and Action Plan to guide its strategic interventions in the industry and committing investments for up to $3 billion by 2030.

To achieve these goals, there is a need for more local pharmaceutical manufacturers in the continent. Currently, the few nations that have local vaccine manufacturing capabilities, are mainly concentrated in North Africa. Moreso, all the local manufacturing plants in sub-Saharan Africa are clustered in nine of 46 countries in the region.

Below, we have highlighted the top 50 local pharmaceutical manufacturers in Africa, contributing their quota to ensure that dependency abroad for drugs and vaccines is reduced to the barest minimum.

Check Out the Top 50 Local Pharmaceutical Manufacturers in Africa

Note: The list is in no particular order

1. Aspen Pharmacare Holdings Limited – South Africa (Founded in 1997): Aspen is one of Africa’s largest pharmaceutical companies, specialising in the production of generic medicines and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). It manufactures over-the-counter (OTC) medications and prescription drugs, including treatments for cancer, anaesthesia, and respiratory conditions. Aspen operates globally, with a significant footprint in Africa and other developing markets.
2. Adcock Ingram – South Africa (Founded in 1891): Adcock Ingram is a leading South African manufacturer, involved in the production of a wide range of health products, from OTC medications to prescription treatments. The company has a strong presence in the fields of pain management, anti-inflammatory treatments, and respiratory care. It serves markets in Southern Africa and beyond.
3. Neimeth International Pharmaceuticals Plc – Nigeria (Founded in 1997): Neimeth is a well-known pharmaceutical manufacturer in Nigeria, producing a diverse range of medicines, including anti-infectives, vitamins, and drugs for chronic conditions. The company is committed to enhancing healthcare delivery by making affordable and effective medicines available across Africa.
4. May & Baker Nigeria Plc – Nigeria (Founded in 1944): May & Baker has been a pioneer in the Nigerian pharmaceutical industry, with a focus on vaccines, health supplements, and general pharmaceutical products. It produces medications in various therapeutic categories such as anti-diabetic, anti-hypertensive, and anti-infective drugs.
5. Emzor Pharmaceutical Industries Limited – Nigeria (Founded in 1984): Emzor is one of Nigeria’s largest pharmaceutical manufacturers, producing OTC medications and prescription medicines. It is renowned for its wide product range, including pain relief, anti-malarial, and cardiovascular drugs. Emzor also serves the East African and Central African regions with its affordable healthcare solutions.
6. Fidson Healthcare Plc – Nigeria (Founded in 1995): Fidson manufactures high-quality pharmaceutical products that include antibiotics, antifungals, and antiretrovirals. The company’s commitment to local production has helped improve access to essential medicines across Nigeria and neighbouring countries.
7. Pharma-Dynamics (Pty) Ltd – South Africa (Founded in 2001): Pharma-Dynamics is a prominent South African company providing affordable generic drugs. The company’s portfolio includes medicines for chronic conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. Pharma-Dynamics focuses on providing quality and cost-effective solutions to the healthcare system.
8. Ranbaxy South Africa (Pty) Ltd – South Africa (Founded in 1996): Ranbaxy, part of the global pharmaceutical group Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, operates in South Africa, where it manufactures and distributes a range of generic drugs. It focuses on the production of high-quality generics in therapeutic areas such as oncology, cardiology, and infectious diseases.
9. Biovac Institute – South Africa (Founded in 2003): Biovac is a South African company dedicated to local vaccine production to meet the needs of Africa’s healthcare system. The company manufactures vaccines for diseases such as hepatitis B, tetanus, and influenza. Biovac’s mission is to provide affordable, locally produced vaccines for African populations.
10. Cipla Quality Chemical Industries Limited – Uganda (Founded in 2005): A subsidiary of India’s Cipla Ltd, Cipla Quality Chemical is a key pharmaceutical manufacturer in Uganda. The company produces generic medicines, including antiretrovirals, antimalarials, and other essential treatments. It has significantly contributed to reducing the cost of HIV/AIDS treatment in Uganda and East Africa.
11. Beta Healthcare International Ltd – Kenya (Founded in 1964): Beta Healthcare is a leading Kenyan pharmaceutical manufacturer, producing a wide range of prescription drugs, including treatments for hypertension, diabetes, and infections. The company also produces consumer health products like pain relievers and vitamins.
12. KAM Industries Ltd – Kenya (Founded in 1990): KAM Industries manufactures pharmaceuticals and consumer healthcare products. It is known for its high-quality generics, including antibiotics, pain relievers, and cold and flu treatments. The company has made significant contributions to Kenya’s healthcare sector.
13. Universal Corporation Ltd – Kenya (Founded in 1996): Universal Corporation is a leading manufacturer of generic medicines in Kenya. It produces a variety of medicines in therapeutic areas such as antibiotics, pain relief, and gastroenterology. The company also exports to neighbouring countries in East Africa.
14. Zenufa Laboratories Ltd – Tanzania (Founded in 2005): Zenufa is a Tanzanian pharmaceutical company that manufactures generic medicines, including anti-malarials and antibiotics. The company is committed to producing high-quality medicines that are affordable for African communities.
15. Shelys Pharmaceuticals Ltd – Tanzania (Founded in 1960): One of the oldest pharmaceutical companies in Tanzania, Shelys manufactures and distributes a variety of pharmaceuticals, including treatments for malaria, respiratory infections, and digestive disorders. It has a wide distribution network across East Africa.
16. Laborex Tanzania Ltd – Tanzania (Founded in 1996): Laborex is a Tanzanian company that imports and distributes pharmaceutical products across East Africa. The company focuses on providing high-quality medicines and medical supplies to healthcare providers in Tanzania and neighbouring countries.
17. Quality Chemicals Limited – Uganda (Founded in 1997): Quality Chemicals is a Ugandan manufacturer producing a range of pharmaceutical products, including antimalarials and antiretrovirals. The company plays a significant role in improving access to medicines in Uganda and other parts of East Africa.
18. Sightsavers Pharmaceuticals – Ghana (Founded in 2004): Sightsavers Pharmaceuticals is dedicated to the production and distribution of medicines aimed at preventing blindness and promoting eye health. The company also provides essential healthcare products for underserved communities in Africa.
19. Kinapharma Limited – Ghana (Founded in 1996): Kinapharma is a leading manufacturer of pharmaceutical products in Ghana. It produces a broad range of generics, including painkillers, antibiotics, and vitamins, serving both the local and regional markets in West Africa.
20. Danadams Pharmaceutical Industry Limited – Ghana (Founded in 2005): Danadams is a Ghanaian pharmaceutical manufacturer that produces a wide range of generic medicines. The company focuses on affordable and quality pharmaceuticals in categories such as antibiotics, painkillers, and anti-inflammatory drugs. Danadams has established itself as a major player in Ghana’s pharmaceutical sector, contributing significantly to improving local access to essential medicines.
21. Saidal Group – Algeria (Founded in 1982): Saidal is one of the largest pharmaceutical manufacturing companies in Algeria, engaged in producing both generic medicines and over-the-counter products. It is particularly well-known for its contributions in oncology, antibiotics, and vaccines. Saidal's impact extends beyond Algeria, as it also serves many countries in North Africa and the Middle East. The company has modern manufacturing facilities and is focused on improving healthcare access across the region.
22. EIPICO (Egyptian International Pharmaceutical Industries Co.) – Egypt (Founded in 1980): EIPICO is one of Egypt's most prominent pharmaceutical manufacturers, producing a wide range of generic medications, including treatments for infectious diseases, oncology, cardiovascular diseases, and central nervous system conditions. The company operates state-of-the-art manufacturing plants and exports its products to over 50 countries worldwide, making it a significant player in Africa's pharmaceutical sector.
23. Pharco Pharmaceuticals – Egypt (Founded in 1983): Pharco is a leading Egyptian pharmaceutical manufacturer, renowned for its production of high-quality generic medicines. The company focuses on critical therapeutic areas such as oncology, cardiology, and dermatology. Pharco also leads the charge in biosimilars production, and its products are exported to many countries in Africa, the Middle East, and Europe. The company’s expansion into global markets reflects its commitment to providing affordable medicines globally.
24. Adwia Pharmaceuticals Co. – Egypt (Founded in 1984): Adwia Pharmaceuticals is an Egyptian manufacturer of generic medicines, producing a variety of pharmaceutical products ranging from antibiotics to cardiovascular drugs. Adwia is committed to localising pharmaceutical production, and its products are widely available in the Egyptian market and many other countries across Africa and the Middle East.
25. Laprophan – Morocco (Founded in 1949): Laprophan is one of the oldest and most prominent pharmaceutical manufacturers in Morocco, producing high-quality medicines across various therapeutic areas. The company’s product portfolio includes vaccines, antibiotics, pain management drugs, and treatments for respiratory conditions. Laprophan is highly regarded for its commitment to meeting the healthcare needs of both local and regional populations, with strong exports across Africa and the Middle East.
26. Sothema – Morocco (Founded in 1976): Sothema is a major Moroccan pharmaceutical manufacturer with an emphasis on producing affordable generics and over-the-counter products. The company has developed a strong presence in several African markets, supplying medicines for conditions such as infections, hypertension, and diabetes. Sothema also produces high-quality biopharmaceutical products and operates several manufacturing plants that comply with international standards.
27. Pharma 5 – Morocco (Founded in 1985): Pharma 5 is a Moroccan pharmaceutical manufacturer that focuses on producing generics in a wide range of therapeutic areas, including antibiotics, painkillers, and anti-inflammatories. The company is known for providing reliable and cost-effective medicines, and its products are distributed in various African countries. Pharma 5 places a strong emphasis on research and development to meet the changing needs of the African market.
28. Inpha-Medis – Tunisia (Founded in 1989): Inpha-Medis is a pharmaceutical manufacturer based in Tunisia that produces high-quality generic medicines, focusing on antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, and treatments for chronic conditions such as hypertension and diabetes. The company’s products are widely distributed in Tunisia and neighbouring countries, with a reputation for maintaining rigorous standards in both production and distribution.
29. Medis – Tunisia (Founded in 1995): Medis is a Tunisian pharmaceutical manufacturer that produces generic medicines for local and regional markets. The company focuses on critical therapeutic areas such as pain management, antibiotics, and respiratory health. Medis is known for its commitment to maintaining high production standards and ensuring that its medicines are accessible to underserved populations across North Africa.
30. Biopharm – Algeria (Founded in 1991): Biopharm is a leading pharmaceutical manufacturer in Algeria, producing high-quality generics and over-the-counter medicines. The company’s portfolio includes antibiotics, antifungals, pain relief treatments, and other essential drugs. Biopharm contributes to the national healthcare system by providing affordable medicines and plays an important role in reducing Algeria's reliance on imported drugs.
31. Kenya Biovet Ltd – Kenya (Founded in 1985): Kenya Biovet is a pharmaceutical and veterinary medicine manufacturer based in Kenya. The company produces both animal health products and human pharmaceutical products, including essential treatments for malaria, pain, and respiratory diseases. The company’s local manufacturing helps improve the availability of affordable medicines within Kenya and the East African region.
32. Ethical Pharmaceuticals Ltd – Nigeria (Founded in 1980): Ethical Pharmaceuticals is a Nigerian pharmaceutical manufacturer known for producing a range of generic medicines for common diseases such as malaria, infections, and pain relief. The company focuses on providing affordable, high-quality medicines to address the growing healthcare needs in Nigeria and other parts of West Africa.
33. Jericho Pharmaceuticals Ltd – Nigeria (Founded in 1983): Jericho Pharmaceuticals is a Nigerian pharmaceutical manufacturer that produces generic medications, including antibiotics, pain management drugs, and anti-malarials. Jericho plays a significant role in Nigeria’s healthcare system by making essential medicines available at affordable prices, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
34. Roche Pharmaceutical Nigeria Ltd – Nigeria (Founded in 1993): Roche Nigeria, a subsidiary of the global pharmaceutical giant Roche, manufactures and distributes a wide range of medicines, including oncology treatments, anti-viral drugs, and therapies for chronic conditions such as diabetes. The company has a strong focus on providing innovative, high-quality treatments for the Nigerian population and contributes to the broader African healthcare landscape.
35. Biovet Laboratories – South Africa (Founded in 1988): Biovet Laboratories is a South African company that manufactures both human and veterinary pharmaceutical products. Biovet focuses on animal health and pharmaceuticals for human use, including antibiotics and general healthcare medicines. The company plays a key role in ensuring affordable access to veterinary and human health treatments within Southern Africa.
36. UAP Old Mutual Group – Kenya (Founded in 1984): UAP Old Mutual Group is a diversified healthcare provider in Kenya that operates both in the insurance and pharmaceutical sectors. Through its pharmaceutical division, UAP produces generic medicines and healthcare products, making them accessible to local communities in Kenya and across East Africa. The company focuses on enhancing healthcare accessibility and affordability.
37. MediPharm Limited – Uganda (Founded in 2001): MediPharm is a Ugandan pharmaceutical manufacturer producing a wide range of generic medicines. The company’s primary focus is on essential treatments for common conditions such as malaria, respiratory diseases, and gastrointestinal disorders. MediPharm plays an essential role in providing affordable medicine to both the Ugandan and East African populations.
38. Kech Pharmaceutical Ltd – Kenya (Founded in 1997): Kech Pharmaceutical is a prominent pharmaceutical manufacturer in Kenya, focusing on high-quality generic medicines, including antibiotics, pain relief medications, and antihistamines. The company has made significant contributions to improving healthcare access in Kenya, offering affordable medicines for both common and chronic diseases.
39. Maxcare Pharmaceuticals – Nigeria (Founded in 2007): Maxcare Pharmaceuticals is a Nigerian pharmaceutical company that manufactures and markets a broad range of generic medicines. Its portfolio includes antibiotics, painkillers, and anti-inflammatory drugs. Maxcare’s focus is on improving the quality and availability of healthcare in Nigeria, especially in underserved regions.
40. Samsa Pharmaceuticals Ltd – Ghana (Founded in 1994): Samsa Pharmaceuticals is a key player in the Ghanaian pharmaceutical industry, producing affordable generic medicines for local and regional markets. The company’s offerings include a wide variety of medicines such as pain relievers, anti-malarials, and treatment for common infections. Samsa Pharmaceuticals is focused on ensuring access to essential health products for populations across West Africa.
41. Laborex – Uganda (Founded in 1994): Laborex is a Ugandan pharmaceutical distributor and manufacturer, supplying medicines to both human and veterinary markets. The company provides a wide range of generic medicines, including antibiotics and treatments for infectious diseases, to local populations in Uganda and neighbouring countries in East Africa.
42. St. Claire Pharmaceuticals Ltd – Nigeria (Founded in 2000): St. Claire Pharmaceuticals is a Nigerian pharmaceutical manufacturer that focuses on high-quality generic medications. The company produces a range of treatments, including anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, and over-the-counter pain relief medications. St. Claire Pharmaceuticals is committed to improving healthcare access and affordability across Nigeria.
43. United Pharmaceutical Industries (UPI) – Ghana (Founded in 1992): United Pharmaceutical Industries is a Ghanaian pharmaceutical manufacturer that produces a wide array of medicines, from antibiotics to painkillers and treatments for chronic conditions. The company’s products are known for their affordability, which helps improve healthcare accessibility in Ghana and neighbouring countries in West Africa.
44. Bioclinica Pharmaceuticals Ltd – Nigeria (Founded in 2004): Bioclinica is a Nigerian pharmaceutical company focused on manufacturing affordable generic medicines, particularly in the areas of anti-malarials, antibiotics, and cardiovascular treatments. The company is dedicated to improving health outcomes for Nigerians and populations across the West African region.
45. Kenya Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association (KPMA) – Kenya (Founded in 1969): KPMA is an association that represents local pharmaceutical manufacturers in Kenya. It supports the production of generics and promotes the local manufacturing industry to reduce reliance on imported medicines. The KPMA plays an essential advocacy role, ensuring that affordable and high-quality medicines are accessible in Kenya.
46. René Pharmaceuticals – South Africa (Founded in 1990): René Pharmaceuticals is a South African manufacturer of both prescription and over-the-counter medicines. The company produces treatments for a range of therapeutic areas, including pain management, infections, and chronic conditions. René Pharmaceuticals has earned a reputation for its high-quality standards and contributions to the South African healthcare system.
47. Therapeia Pharmaceuticals Ltd – Ghana (Founded in 2003): Therapeia Pharmaceuticals manufactures and distributes affordable medicines, with a focus on pain management, anti-infective treatments, and chronic conditions. The company is committed to providing effective solutions to improve health outcomes across Ghana and West Africa.
48. Nordic Pharmaceuticals Ltd – Kenya (Founded in 1991): Nordic Pharmaceuticals is a key manufacturer of both generic and over-the-counter medicines in Kenya. The company produces a wide range of drugs, including antibiotics, pain relievers, and gastrointestinal treatments, helping to address common healthcare needs in East Africa.
49. Biocon Ghana – Ghana (Founded in 1996): Biocon Ghana is part of the global Biocon group and manufactures a variety of generic medicines. The company focuses on providing affordable, high-quality treatments for a wide range of conditions, including infectious diseases, pain management, and chronic illnesses.
50. Simba Pharmaceuticals – Kenya (Founded in 2005): Simba Pharmaceuticals is a Kenyan pharmaceutical manufacturer that produces both generic medicines and over-the-counter health products. The company is dedicated to ensuring that quality medicines are available and affordable, particularly in East Africa’s underserved areas.

Conclusion

Local pharmaceutical manufacturers in Africa play an essential role in shaping the continent’s healthcare landscape. These companies not only provide access to affordable, high-quality medicines but also contribute significantly to the region's economic development by creating jobs and fostering innovation.

From well-established giants like EIPICO in Egypt to emerging players such as Simba Pharmaceuticals in Kenya, these manufacturers are driving the growth of Africa's pharmaceutical industry. As the demand for healthcare solutions continues to rise, the ongoing efforts of these local manufacturers are key to strengthening healthcare infrastructure, reducing dependency on imported medicines, and improving the overall well-being of millions across the continent. In a time when self-reliance and sustainability in healthcare are becoming increasingly important, these companies represent the future of Africa’s pharmaceutical sector. Their continued growth and development will be crucial in meeting the evolving healthcare needs of the African population.

There is no doubt that there would be more investment in the sector if the challenges these local pharmaceutical manufacturers in Africa face are addressed. They face significant challenges including; limited local production capacity, regulatory fragmentation across countries, widespread counterfeit drugs, poor infrastructure, lack of access to raw materials, high production costs due to small scale, inadequate healthcare financing, and difficulties with market access and distribution networks; all of which hinder their ability to provide affordable and accessible medicines to the African population.