The European Medicines Agency (EMA) is set to enhance pharmaceutical regulation across Africa, backed by a significant €10 million grant from the European Commission. This funding is earmarked to bolster regulatory systems at both national and regional levels on the continent, specifically targeting the development of the African Medicines Agency (AMA).

Marking a major milestone in African healthcare, the European Commission’s Directorate-General for International Partnerships has formalized an agreement with EMA, signaling the official start of this ambitious project. The AMA is envisioned as a specialized agency of the African Union (AU), with a mission to improve equitable access to quality, safe, and effective medical products throughout Africa.

To date, 27 countries have ratified the AMA treaty, with more AU members expected to join in the forthcoming months. The establishment of AMA represents an unprecedented opportunity to streamline the regulation and monitoring of crucial medicines at a continental level, fostering increased collaboration among African nations and regions.

EMA’s Executive Director, Emer Cooke, commented on the development, stating, “It will be exciting to see AMA develop its regulatory model and practices to enhance the availability of safe and affordable medicines in Africa. EMA is committed to supporting this journey, sharing our knowledge and experience garnered from working as a network of thousands of experts across Europe.”

For further information, visit the EMA website: European Medicines Agency – News.