The Egyptian Authority for Unified Procurement (UPA) has announced it is evaluating a strategic proposal to develop a unified digital platform aimed at enhancing access to medicines and medical supplies across Africa. UPA Chairperson Hisham Stait met with representatives from the African Association for Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals and Fixed Egypt to discuss the project, which would initially serve the African continent before expanding globally. The initiative aligns with Egypt’s broader strategy to accelerate digital transformation in the healthcare sector.
In a move to bolster African health capabilities, the Egyptian Authority for Unified Procurement (UPA) has announced it is evaluating a proposal for a unified digital platform. The project will initially facilitate access to medicines and medical supplies in Africa, with plans for global expansion in later phases. UPA Chairperson Hisham Stait met with representatives from the African Association for Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals and Fixed Egypt to discuss the details.
The proposal fits into Egypt’s strategy to speed up digital transformation in the healthcare sector, boosting the competitiveness of locally manufactured pharmaceuticals. It supports national projects like the electronic prescription system and pharmaceutical traceability program, contributing to Egypt’s goal of raising pharmaceutical exports to $5 billion by 2030.
According to the Authority, the platform will strengthen unified procurement and smart distribution mechanisms across Africa, streamlining supply chains, cutting costs, and ensuring equitable access to essential medical products. This aligns with calls from global health bodies, including the World Health Organization and the Africa CDC, for regional digital solutions.
Africa’s pharmaceutical market is valued at nearly $49 billion annually, with growth potential driven by digitalization and better logistics. The project reinforces Egypt’s role in advancing African health sovereignty, backed by initiatives such as the annual Africa Health ExCon, which spotlights innovation, AI, and local manufacturing.
The UPA anticipates strategic benefits, including improved continental health sovereignty, enhanced group-purchasing efficiency, stronger pharmaceutical governance and traceability, expanded export opportunities for Egyptian manufacturers, and better access to medicines in underserved areas. Collaboration with the African Association and Fixed Egypt could pave the way for a global digital platform for medicine trade, based on unified standards and advanced digital governance.