The African Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), in partnership with the Ethiopian Ministry of Health, convened a high-level continental discussion to officially launch the African Pooled Procurement Mechanism (APPM) for medicines and medical devices.

The mechanism is designed to transform healthcare access across the continent by enabling Africa CDC to purchase pharmaceutical products and vaccines through a collectively funded pool. This will facilitate distribution to member states and, critically, stimulate and incentivize local African manufacturing.

During the event, Health Minister Dr. Mekdes Daba highlighted that addressing the current fragmented procurement and supply of medical products is one of Africa’s most pressing healthcare system challenges. She praised Africa CDC's leadership in advancing this strategic initiative. The Minister described the gathering as a vital forum for sharing best practices on integrated procurement and supply, enhancing regional collaboration, and pinpointing national health priorities.

State Minister of Health, Frehiwot Abebe underscored Ethiopia's commitment to prioritizing its domestic pharmaceutical industry. She noted that continental cooperation, leveraging the APPM, is key for African nations to collectively benefit and build resilient, sustainable health systems.

The dialogue represents a significant step toward harmonizing regional efforts for a single, transparent, and efficient procurement process. Such a mechanism is expected to bolster the continent's public health security while fostering growth in local industries.

Ethiopia is one of the initial 10 countries to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to commence the implementation of the integrated procurement and supply of medicines and medical devices.