Local Remedy

The building of Mali’s first drug factory by a Chinese company in 2015 marked a major turning point in the continent’s pharmaceutical industry

Not so long ago, Sanankoroba was a deserted place. But today, a top-grade drug factory proudly stands in this small town located near the capital Bamako in south Mali.

The factory is owned by the Malian Branch of Humanwell Healthcare (Group) Co. Ltd., a Chinese pharmaceutical company whose decision to enter the African market dates back to 2009. The company inaugurated its first drug factory on the continent in early 2015. As a result, all of West Africa now has access to its large range of drugs, in particular serums and syrups.

Covering a surface area of 69,000 square meters, the plant employs more than 200 Malians, including in executive positions. All of them have received training in modern pharmaceutical production techniques upon hiring.

“This plant will benefit our people by filling the gap of drug production in Mali,” said Mali President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita at the plant’s inauguration.