Crisis at the Senegalese Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency: Health unions raise the alarm

Tensions are running high in Dakar within the Senegalese Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (ARP). In a press release published on March 16, 2026, the sections of the Autonomous Union of Doctors, Pharmacists and Dental Surgeons of Senegal (SAMES) and the Unified Union of Health and Social Action Workers (SUTSAS) within the ARP announced the joining of their struggles to denounce what they describe as "mismanagement" of the institution responsible for regulating pharmaceutical products in Senegal.

Concerns about health safety

According to SAMES and SUTSAS, the situation within the ARP remains worrying despite several warnings already sent to the authorities. They believe that malfunctions could affect public health, particularly through drug shortages and the occurrence of adverse effects linked to certain pharmaceutical products.

The unions specifically cite the cases of bupivacaine and iohexol, two products whose management and monitoring have reportedly raised concerns. According to the signatories of the press release, the ARP (French Regulatory Authority for Pharmaceutical Products) has not yet provided clear technical and scientific answers, nor taken any regulatory decisions deemed appropriate to reassure healthcare professionals and patients.

A trade union alliance to defend public health

Faced with this situation, union leaders assert that their primary concern is to protect the health of the Senegalese population. In their statement, they present themselves as a "shield" against the risks that could arise from mismanagement of the pharmaceutical sector.

The two organizations assure that they will continue to defend the interests of citizens and demand corrective measures to guarantee the quality, safety and effectiveness of health products available in Senegal.

Pressures denounced

The unions also assert that they will not be intimidated by any potential retaliatory measures. They specifically mention attempts at intimidation, wage suspensions, or other forms of pressure that could be used to curb their mobilization.

Despite these threats, ARP staff representatives say they are determined to continue their fight for more transparency and rigor in pharmaceutical regulation.

A sensitive issue for the healthcare system

This statement from the unions comes at a time when drug regulation is considered a strategic issue for public health in Senegal. The ARP (Regulatory Authority for Pharmaceutical Products) plays a key role in the authorization, control, and monitoring of pharmaceutical products circulating in the country.

Attention is now turning to the health authorities, who have been called upon by the unions to provide quick and clear answers to prevent the situation from further undermining confidence in the health system.