Health News of Saturday, 19 July 2025

Source: rainbowradioonline.com

Ghana to commercially produce snake anti-venom serum – Health Minister

Health Minister, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh Health Minister, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh

Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh announced that the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has granted market authorization for the commercial production of Snake Anti-Venom Serum in Ghana.

He described this development as a pivotal moment for the country’s pharmaceutical manufacturing sector.

Minister Akandoh shared this news during his address at the Government Accountability Series held on Friday, July 18, 2025.

He emphasized that this initiative is a crucial step in Ghana’s broader strategy to achieve self-reliance in producing vaccines and other essential medical supplies.

The minister further explained that this approval is the result of close collaboration between the National Vaccine Institute, the FDA, and key pharmaceutical industry stakeholders.

In his remarks, Mr Akandoh stated, “I am happy to inform you that one of our private sector partners has obtained market authorisation from Ghana’s FDA to produce Snake Anti-Venom Serum on a commercial scale, marking the next step in our goal to shift Ghana from a consumer to a producer.”

He reiterated the government’s commitment, adding, “Ladies and Gentlemen, the government has pledged and remains dedicated to making Ghana a centre for vaccine manufacturer.”

The Minister concluded by highlighting the ongoing efforts: “In this regard, the National Vaccine Institute is collaborating with the regulatory authority and pharmaceutical industry stakeholders to bring this plan to reality.”