Dr. Luke Bawo, Managing Director of the Liberia Medicines & Health Products Regulatory Authority (LMHRA), underscored critical challenges facing the pharmaceutical sector during the opening remarks of the 37th General Assembly of the West African Post-Graduate College of Pharmacists (WAPCP), held from April 7-10, 2025.
Addressing a diverse audience of stakeholders from across West Africa, Dr. Bawo expressed concern over the rising costs of medications and the access barriers they create, particularly for vulnerable populations. He called for collaborative policies and innovative strategies to ensure that life-saving drugs remain affordable and accessible.
“This year’s conference theme, ‘Emerging Substances of Abuse: Implications for the West African Region,’ is particularly relevant to our mission at LMHRA,” Dr. Bawo stated. He emphasized the importance of enhancing regulatory frameworks and best practices in pharmacy to navigate the complexities of drug regulation and improve public health throughout the region.
Dr. Bawo also highlighted the urgent need to address Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), which he described as a significant global health threat. He urged participants to prioritize discussions on responsible antibiotic management and the development of new treatments as essential components of their agenda.
Regulatory challenges were another focal point of Dr. Bawo’s remarks. He advocated for harmonizing regulations across West African nations to streamline processes while ensuring safety and efficacy. He noted that ongoing disruptions in global supply chains, worsened by recent health crises, necessitate resilient strategies to maintain a steady supply of essential medicines.
Reflecting on the lingering effects of public health crises, particularly the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Bawo called for preparedness strategies that not only tackle current issues but also anticipate future public health emergencies. He emphasized the need for increased transparency in drug pricing and clinical trials, highlighting the critical role of public trust in the pharmaceutical sector.
In an age of digital advancements, Dr. Bawo stressed the importance of digital transformation in the industry. He encouraged stakeholders to adopt innovative data management practices to enhance drug development and distribution while prioritizing patient safety.
Additionally, he emphasized the necessity of sustainable practices within the pharmaceutical sector, linking environmental sustainability to public health and well-being.
Addressing global health disparities, Dr. Bawo called for solidarity and cooperation among nations to ensure equitable access to healthcare resources. He expressed confidence in the collaborative efforts of the West African pharmaceutical community to tackle these challenges through innovation and partnership.
“The assembly serves as a vital platform for robust discussions aimed at refining strategies and fostering partnerships to address the critical challenges facing West Africa’s pharmaceutical sector,” Dr. Bawo concluded. He urged attendees to embrace goodwill, openness, and collaboration over the coming days, emphasizing the collective expertise that can inspire meaningful change and promote better health outcomes for all.
