GROUNDBREAKING OF THE PHARMACEUTICAL MANUFACTURING PLANT AT LUSAKA SOUTH MULTI-FACILITY ECONOMIC ZONE
17th October, 2025
The Government of the Republic of Zambia today held a groundbreaking ceremony for the establishment of a state-of-the-art pharmaceutical manufacturing plant at the Lusaka South Multi-Facility Economic Zone.
President Hakainde Hichilema was represented by the Honourable Minister of Youth, Sports and Arts, Mr. Elvis Nkandu, MP.
The facility, a joint venture between the Government through the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA) and Akums Drugs and Pharmaceuticals Limited of India, marks a major milestone in Zambia’s pursuit of health sovereignty, economic diversification, and industrial transformation.
In a statement delivered on behalf of the President, Hon. Nkandu noted that when the UPND government took office in 2021, medicine availability in public health facilities stood below 40%. Through decisive reforms in procurement, governance, and supply chain management, availability has now surpassed 80% as of 2025. He added that the consistent increase in the national allocation for medicines and medical supplies, from K1.2 billion in 2021 to K4.9 billion in 2025, reflects the Government’s steadfast commitment to ensuring that every Zambian has access to safe, affordable, and reliable healthcare.
The pharmaceutical manufacturing plant will enable Zambia to locally produce over 750 types of medicines and medical supplies, reducing dependence on imports and positioning the country as a regional hub for pharmaceutical innovation and excellence.
Beyond improving access to essential medicines, this project will create significant employment opportunities for young people, beginning with construction works and extending into technical, engineering, research, and production roles once manufacturing commences.
President Hichilema commended Akums Drugs and Pharmaceuticals Limited and the Government of India for their partnership, reaffirming Zambia’s readiness to provide a stable, transparent, and investor-friendly environment. He further called on all stakeholders, government agencies, regulators, industry players, and the private sector, to support local manufacturing and uphold the highest standards of quality and accountability as Zambia moves towards becoming a producer and exporter of medicines for the nation and the region.
Issued by:
Georgia Mutale Chimombo
Principle Public Relations Officer / Spokesperson
Ministry of Health