5TH June, 2024. The Zambia Medicines Regulatory Authority (ZAMRA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with its Egyptian counterpart, the Egypt Drug Authority (EDA). The MoU is aimed at collaborations in the space of medicines, medical devices and cosmetics regulation by the two regulators, as well as capacity building.
ZAMRA Director- General Mr Makomani Siyanga has signed on behalf of the Authority, while the Chairperson of the Egyptian Pharmaceutical Authority, Dr. Ali Al-Ghamrawy and his Vice Dr. Ayman Al-Khatib signed on behalf of the Arab Republic of Egypt. This was on the sidelines of the 3rd edition of the African Medical Conference Africa Health Excon; whose objective was to enhance cooperation in health promotion.
The two Authorities envision great partnership aimed at fostering efficient regulatory systems, prompt procurement of generic and essential drugs, assistance in securing drug supplies, as well as aiding the development and growth of the health sector in the respective countries.
The collaboration will also enable ZAMRA to enhance operational proficiency and improve service delivery through co-training programs, capacity building in technical, medical and therapeutic techniques.
In the registration and marketing authorisation of medicinal and biological products, the Zambia Medicines Regulatory Authority will, in accordance with the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines, rely on quality information summary from the Egyptian Drug Authority (EDA).
ZAMRA, therefore, is committed to observing the laws, regulations and guidelines applicable to the EDA, to ensure the registration of Egyptian pharmaceutical products, and to participate in the establishment of a comprehensive information sharing platform within the field of regulation of pharmaceuticals, medical devices and cosmetics.
ZAMRA and the EDA share a common vision of providing an enabling environment for pharmaceutical players in the medicines supply chain, and ensuring the availability of safe, quality and efficacious medical products for both human and animal health. This collaboration is anchored on strong historical bilateral relations Zambia and Egypt have enjoyed over the years.
Story by Lister M. Mutukwa – Public Relations Officer
