Health product supply chain: Senegal takes a new step

Senegal has taken another step forward in strengthening its health supply chain. At an official ceremony, the National Supply Pharmacy (SEN-PNA) received a significant shipment of mobile logistics equipment designed to improve the distribution of essential medicines throughout the country. The event also marked the official launch of preparations for the fourth edition of the African Forum on Strengthening Health Supply Chains (FARCAPS 2026), which Senegal will host from November 25 to 27, 2026. In his address, the Minister of Health and Social Action, Ibrahima Sy, emphasized that this dual ceremony went far beyond the mere receipt of new equipment. According to him, it reflects the commitment of the Senegalese authorities to building a more efficient and resilient supply chain capable of guaranteeing continuous and equitable access to essential medicines across the entire country.

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The minister emphasized that the availability of a medication depends not only on its acquisition but also on efficient logistics that ensure its delivery to the last mile. He stressed that strengthening the capacity of the National Pharmaceutical Supply and Procurement Agency (SEN-PNA) is a strategic investment to improve healthcare delivery to the population and consolidate Senegal's health sovereignty. The equipment received includes trucks, supervisory vehicles, and handling and storage equipment. These acquisitions will enable the SEN-PNA to enhance its logistical capabilities, modernize its distribution network, and further secure the supply of medication to healthcare facilities throughout the country.

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Speaking about FARCAPS 2026, Ibrahima Sy noted that this forum has become the leading continental platform for discussions on health product supply chains. He pointed out that African countries face common challenges, including recurring supply disruptions, dependence on imports, dwindling international funding, and issues related to pharmaceutical sovereignty. More than 300 participants from some 20 African countries are expected in Dakar. Representatives from ministries of health, national procurement agencies, technical and financial partners, international organizations, pharmaceutical companies, experts, and private sector stakeholders will exchange ideas on innovative solutions to strengthen health product supply systems.

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The minister also welcomed the selection of Senegal to host this fourth edition of FARCAPS, seeing it as recognition of the country's efforts to modernize its national supply chain. He noted that this edition will coincide with the 30th anniversary of the African Association of Central Purchasing Agencies for Essential Medicines (ACAME) and the 50th anniversary of the World Health Organization's Model List of Essential Medicines. Ibrahima Sy reaffirmed Senegal's ambition to make logistical innovation a driver of healthcare system transformation and to accelerate the continent's pharmaceutical sovereignty, in order to guarantee every citizen sustainable, equitable, and safe access to essential medicines.