ADDIS ABABA –The Ethiopian Pharmaceutical Supply Service (EPSS) has announced a new procurement directive aimed at prioritizing local manufacturers of medicines and medical equipment, signaling a major policy shift to strengthen domestic production and ensure a more resilient healthcare supply chain.
During a press briefing held yesterday, EPSS Director General Abdulkadir Gelgelo (MD) said the directive is part of the government’s broader effort to reduce dependency on imported medical products, enhance supply chain efficiency, and support the growth of local pharmaceutical and equipment manufacturers.
“The new directive gives preferential treatment to domestic manufacturers. It is designed to streamline procurement, address long-standing supply bottlenecks, and ensure a more reliable and responsive healthcare system,” Abdulkadir stated.
Approved recently, the directive introduces key reforms to ensure that the country’s procurement process aligns with changing health demands and addresses the supply of specialized drugs and equipment. It empowers local producers to compete more effectively by removing barriers that have historically limited their participation in public tenders.
One of the notable provisions in the directive includes flexibility for emergency procurement and joint international procurement, especially for medicines and medical devices not readily available in the local market. This strategy, Abdulkadir noted, will help Ethiopia respond quickly to urgent health needs and global supply disruptions.
To further enhance access to advanced technologies, the directive also introduces leasing options for high-cost medical equipment, enabling health institutions to obtain essential diagnostic and treatment tools without large upfront investments.
“The nature of healthcare challenges is evolving, and our procurement framework must evolve with it. This directive reflects that need and puts local manufacturers at the center of our healthcare delivery system,” he added.
EPSS is responsible for procuring and distributing medicines and medical equipment to health institutions across the country. With the new directive now in place, the agency expects improved availability of essential health commodities and increased participation from Ethiopia’s emerging pharmaceutical industry.
BY ESSEYE MENGISTE
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD FRIDAY 6 JUNE 2025
