Sandoz (SIX:SDZ/OTCQX:SDZNY), the global leader in affordable medicines, today announces the signature of a direct manufacturing and supply agreement with the government of Rwanda, to promote the stable provision of critical medicines to Rwanda. The medicines would also be supplied to selected African partner countries, with potential to expand further in future.
The agreement, signed at a ceremony in the Rwandan capital, Kigali, follows the publication last August of the Alpbach Communiqué in Tyrol, Austria: a cross-sectoral, multinational commitment to secure EU-based supply of antibiotics to both Europe and partner regions. The Communiqué was endorsed by Sandoz as the global leader in generic antibiotic production and supported by the government of Rwanda, which also hosts the African Medicines Agency.
Sandoz Chief Transformation and Growth Officer Simon Goeller says: “This landmark agreement with the Rwandan government, which initially covers approximately 60 products, is a first step towards a sustainable regional procurement model for affordable, high-quality medicines. It is a great example of how we strive to deliver on our Sandoz Purpose: pioneering access for patients.
Also read: Thumbay University Hospital celebrates motherhood with gold rewards and free delivery initiative
“It is good news for Rwanda, for Africa and for our Kundl site: the hub and centre of Europe’s last major end-to-end antibiotic manufacturing network. Securing additional volumes for this important region is great progress but we still need urgent and similar action from EU governments to ensure the sustainability of this unique European asset, which is critical to Europe’s long-term autonomy and resilience.”
Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, Minister of Health of the Republic of Rwanda, stated: “Rwanda is among the countries in Sub-Saharan Africa that reimburse cancer treatments through its public health system, and continues to address infectious diseases as a public health priority.
“This partnership reflects our efforts to work with established biosimilar and generic manufacturers to expand access to quality, affordable cancer care and essential antibiotic therapies. Through this agreement, Rwanda aims to support improved access to treatment for patients within Rwanda and across the African Union.”
