Leveraging local manufacturing for consumer health products in Africa
Africa’s consumer health market is expanding rapidly, valued at nearly $19 billion and expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7 to 8 per cent through 2028. However, more than 70 per cent of essential health products are still imported, raising key questions around sustainability, supply chain resilience, and economic opportunity. CNBC Africa’s Tabitha Muthoni spoke to Mark Pfister, General Manager for Sub-Saharan Africa at Haleon, for more.
Wed, 16 Apr 2025 10:26:48 GMT
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AI Generated Summary
- Local manufacturing presents an opportunity to reach more consumers and enhance economic independence in Africa.
- Challenges such as supply chain disruptions and high import dependency can be overcome through local production, ensuring timely and affordable healthcare solutions.
- Sustainability is a key focus for manufacturing operations, with initiatives like solar energy use, water reuse, and packaging recycling driving environmental stewardship and reducing carbon footprint.
Africa's consumer health market is witnessing rapid growth, projected at a compound annual growth rate of 7 to 8 per cent through 2028, with a total value of nearly $19 billion. However, despite this growth, over 70 per cent of essential health products are still imported, leading to concerns about sustainability and supply chain resilience in the region. To gain insights into the benefits of local manufacturing and its role in addressing these challenges, CNBC Africa's Tabitha Muthoni sat down with Mark Pfister, the General Manager for Sub-Saharan Africa at Haleon. Mark highlighted the opportunities and impact of local manufacturing, emphasizing the importance of reaching more consumers and building economic independence through production in Africa. He also discussed the key role local facilities play in providing timely and affordable healthcare solutions, particularly in rural areas with limited access to imported products. Pfister shed light on the challenges faced in building and sustaining local manufacturing facilities, stressing the need for collaboration with governments, regulatory bodies, and local vendors to address financial and infrastructural obstacles. Moreover, he underscored the significance of sustainability in manufacturing operations, detailing initiatives taken by Haleon to reduce its carbon footprint and promote environmental stewardship. From solar energy utilization to water reuse practices and packaging recycling efforts, the company is dedicated to driving sustainable growth in its manufacturing processes. By prioritizing local production, investing in sustainable practices, and fostering partnerships within the community, Haleon is setting a new standard for responsible manufacturing in Africa's burgeoning consumer health market. With a commitment to quality, affordability, and environmental consciousness, the company is paving the way for a healthier and more sustainable future for consumers across the continent.