USAID partners with SWIPHA to improve healthcare service in Africa

The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), has partnered with Swiss Pharma (Swipha), through technical assistance to improve healthcare services and access to life-saving medicines across the region.

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The joint commitment is to achieve a significant milestone in the pharmaceutical industry that will protect and save lives.

This was disclosed in statement by the US Embassy in Nigeria.

According to the statement, the partnership and assistance has helped Swipha become the first pharmaceutical company in Nigeria and West Africa to receive World Health Organization (WHO) prequalification for two essential medicines.

The statement noted that: “With USAID’s support, Swipha has not only attained the essential certification, but has also been recognized as the first pharmaceutical company in Nigeria and West Africa to comply with Good Manufacturing Practice standards as outlined by the WHO”.

The statement explained that for years, Nigeria has faced challenges in procuring life-saving medicines due to high costs and the inability of many local pharmaceutical companies to meet international standards.

Stressing that the barriers have limited access to quality healthcare, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children and pregnant women.

“This certification is a testament to the quality, safety, and efficiency of Swipha’s pharmaceutical products and processes. The newly certified pediatric Zinc Sulphate is crucial in reducing the severity and duration of severe diarrhea, a leading cause of mortality among children under five years old in Nigeria. Sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine tablets—also manufactured by Swipha, and WHO-certified—are essential for preventing malaria in pregnancy, a significant contributor to child mortality in the country”.

During her visit to the Swipha factory in Lagos, USAID Acting Mission Director Alexis Taylor-Granados remarked,

“This achievement is a testament to the power of collaboration in improving healthcare in Nigeria. We are proud to have supported Swipha in reaching this milestone and look forward to continuing our partnership to ensure more quality medicines reach those who need them most. Together, we are building a healthier future for Nigeria.”

With WHO prequalification, Swipha can now supply essential medicines to organizations and governments globally, contributing to the improvement of child health and maternal care across Nigeria, the West African sub-region, and beyond.