Square Pharmaceuticals Kenya EPZ Ltd, a local pharmaceutical manufacturer, achieved a historic milestone with its first export of medicines to Somalia. On Friday, the company dispatched 5,500 boxes (pack of 30s) of human medicines, including the Angilock 50/12.5 tablet (Losartan 50mg and Hydrochlorothiazide 12.5mg), marking a significant achievement for the country’s budding pharmaceutical industry.
This export comes just a year after the company set up its production plant in Kenya, specifically at the Export Processing Zone (EPZ) in Athi River, Machakos County. The plant began operations in 2023 and represents a major step forward in Kenya’s efforts to establish itself as a hub for pharmaceutical manufacturing and exports in Africa.
During a ceremony held at the Athi River facility, Dr. Iruki Kailemia, Director of Square Pharmaceuticals Kenya EPZ Ltd, described the export as a critical achievement not only for the company but for the entire Kenyan pharmaceutical sector. “We have today achieved a historic milestone with this flagging-off ceremony celebrating the first-ever export of our pharmaceuticals from the Athi River manufacturing plant,” said Dr. Kailemia.
Dr. Kailemia emphasized that this accomplishment reinforces the company’s commitment to providing high-quality healthcare solutions both locally and globally. “This achievement confirms the company’s continued commitment to delivering innovative and high-quality healthcare solutions on a global scale,” he stated. The director further noted that the successful export would boost confidence among healthcare professionals in the region regarding the quality of local pharmaceuticals.
Expanding Horizons in Africa and Beyond
Square Pharmaceuticals’ decision to establish a manufacturing plant in Kenya, after operating in the country since 2004, is in line with its broader vision of using Kenya as a strategic base to export medicines to other African countries and even to Europe. The company’s Athi River plant is expected to serve as a key hub for the distribution of pharmaceuticals across the region.
Kailemia thanked various stakeholders, including the government, for their support in facilitating the export process. “Government agencies such as the Export Processing Zone Authority helped us in every step when it was required, including securing the necessary export permits. We have already employed 250 local people,” said Dr. Kailemia. He also acknowledged the role of employees, partners, and customers in helping the company reach this significant milestone.
Square Pharmaceuticals has plans for further expansion, with a focus on increasing its workforce and broadening its production capacity. “We are in the process of setting up a liquid and injection project at the same plant,” Kailemia revealed. The company plans to expand its workforce to 1,000 direct employees as its operations at the EPZ continue to grow.
A Boost to Kenya’s Pharmaceutical Industry
This milestone comes at a time when Kenya is striving to grow its local pharmaceutical manufacturing industry. The Kenyan government has placed emphasis on creating a conducive environment for local manufacturers to thrive, particularly in export-oriented industries. Square Pharmaceuticals’ successful export not only reflects the potential of the Kenyan pharmaceutical sector but also aligns with the country’s broader goals of industrialization and economic growth.
Dr. Kailemia expressed his gratitude to the Kenyan government for creating favorable business conditions. “The government’s support, particularly through agencies like the Export Processing Zone Authority, has been instrumental in helping us navigate the complexities of setting up a production plant and securing the necessary permits for export,” he said.
Square Pharmaceuticals Kenya EPZ Ltd is also positioning itself as a major player in the continent’s pharmaceutical sector. With its strategic location in Kenya, the company is looking to penetrate markets across Africa and Europe, where there is growing demand for quality healthcare products.
A Bright Future for Kenyan Manufacturing
The export to Somalia is the beginning of what Square Pharmaceuticals envisions as a long-term strategy to supply high-quality medicines across Africa and beyond. By setting up its production base in Kenya, the company is not only contributing to local employment but also helping the country reduce its reliance on imported pharmaceutical products.
As the company scales up its operations and continues to develop new products, its presence in Kenya is expected to have a positive ripple effect on the local economy and healthcare sector. With further plans to expand its production lines, Square Pharmaceuticals is set to play a significant role in shaping the future of pharmaceutical manufacturing in Kenya.
In conclusion, the first export by Square Pharmaceuticals Kenya EPZ Ltd to Somalia represents a significant achievement in the country’s efforts to establish a robust pharmaceutical manufacturing industry. It also highlights Kenya’s potential to become a key player in Africa’s healthcare sector, fostering economic growth, creating jobs, and ensuring access to quality medicines across the continent.
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