The 25th International Pharmaceutical Forum has opened in N’Djamena, drawing health experts, policy makers and delegates from across Africa. This year’s theme, “Expanding healthcare access: opportunities and challenges of local production and hospital pharmacy,” sets the stage for critical discussions on strengthening Africa’s pharmaceutical sovereignty.

Welcoming delegates on behalf of the President, Prime Minister Allah Maye Halina praised Chad’s role as host and highlighted the collective commitment to advancing continental health cooperation. “Your presence here underscores our shared dedication to building resilient health systems that serve all Africans,” he stated.

Chad’s leadership in hosting this prestigious forum—its second time after the 13th edition—reflects the nation’s growing influence in African health governance. The event serves as a vital platform for policy dialogue, knowledge exchange and collaborative problem-solving, with outcomes expected to guide national and regional health strategies.

Dr. Abdelmadjid Abderahim Mahamat, Minister of Public Health and Prevention, emphasized the forum’s role in fostering sustainable partnerships. “We must translate today’s discussions into actionable strategies that improve medicine access, strengthen regulatory frameworks and accelerate innovation in pharmaceutical care,” he noted.

Representing InterOrdre, M. Laroussi Mustapha stressed the human impact behind every policy decision. “Behind every medicine is a patient, behind every pharmacy is a family, and behind every choice lies a life. Hospital pharmacy isn’t just a service—it’s a lifeline for our communities.”

With delegates examining local production models, supply chain resilience and workforce development, the forum embodies Africa’s determination to reduce dependence on imported pharmaceuticals and build self-sufficient health systems.