Government plans to invest US$1 billion in 2027 to establish pharmaceutical and biomanufacturing hubs in the Eastern and Central Regions, aiming to boost local medicine production and make Ghana a West African export hub. Construction is expected to begin in 2027 through a state-owned special purpose vehicle.
Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson announced the plan while presenting the 2027 Budget Statement and Economic Policy to Parliament on Thursday. Under Pillar Seven of the New Economy agenda, the investment is intended to cut reliance on imported medicines, conserve foreign exchange, create skilled jobs and expand exports.
Ghana imports 70 to 75 per cent of its medicines, costing about US$500 million a year, Dr Forson said. The government plans to amend public procurement laws to favour locally made medicines when sufficient quantities are available and meet quality standards.
Suppliers will need Food and Drugs Authority registration and Good Manufacturing Practice compliance. The government will also help local manufacturers seek World Health Organisation prequalification, which could support access to regional and international markets.
Qualified Ghanaian and international manufacturers will participate in the hubs under transparent lease and operating agreements.
Ghana aims to produce 60 to 80 per cent of its essential medicines locally by 2030. The initiative is expected to generate about 20,000 direct and indirect jobs and strengthen health security through expanded medicine and vaccine production.
