Tanzania to launch full-scale local production of ARVs
Tanzania is gearing up to manufacture antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) on a large, local scale, the government has announced. Health permanent secretary Dr. Seif Shekalaghe disclosed the plan during a visit to Tanzania Pharmaceutical Industries Limited (TPI) in the northern city, a facility that has a supply partnership with the government for this purpose.
The visit aimed to gauge TPI’s readiness to resume operations after production was temporarily halted due to technical and operational hurdles. Restoring the factory to full functionality marks a significant milestone in strengthening the healthcare system and reducing the country’s dependence on foreign aid for essential medicines.
For many years, Tanzania relied on ARV supplies through the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). The early-year reduction in PEPFAR support prompted the government to accelerate the development of local manufacturing capacity to ensure sustainable, timely access to ARVs for people living with HIV and to lower treatment costs, the official noted.
A joint venture agreement between the Medical Stores Department (MSD) and the Treasury Registrar with TPI aims to revive and modernize the factory so it can begin large-scale local ARV production. Health Minister Mohamed Mchengerwa, upon assuming office, ordered the factory’s restoration to full operation to improve ARV availability, generate jobs, and boost the national economy, Shekalaghe explained.
The minister emphasized that the factory must be revived and brought back into production after years of dormancy. His visit was tied to identifying the concrete steps needed for rehabilitation and the start of manufacturing.
Technical teams have already begun discussions, and a revival task force—comprising board members and management representatives—will oversee the entire process. Experts are assessing the state and quality of existing machinery to ensure compliance with pharmaceutical standards. President Samia Suluhu Hassan has shown strong commitment to reviving industries nationwide and attracting investors to strengthen local manufacturing.
A key priority is to support health-related industries so Tanzania can produce its own medicines, reduce import costs, and ensure quicker access to life-saving drugs and other medical supplies. Once fully operational, the refurbished TPI plant will manufacture ARVs and other essential medicines, helping to mitigate shortages and bolster national health security. The initiative is also expected to generate new jobs in the pharmaceutical sector, empower local professionals, and stimulate economic activity in the region.
Local analysts view this move as a major step toward self-reliance, enhanced healthcare delivery, and greater stability in Tanzania’s ongoing battle against HIV/AIDS.
