Innovation in laboratory testing approaches to oversee Africa's local production of medical products.

The article discusses the need for Africa to develop its laboratory testing resources for regulatory quality assurance in order to transition to self-reliance in the production of medical products. Currently, only a few African countries have the necessary testing and lot release capacities to meet international quality standards. The article proposes the establishment of a regional laboratory network, based on the principles of regulatory reliance and recognition, to increase efficiencies and support regulatory oversight in multiple countries. The network would require adequate resources, standardization of quality control practices, and ongoing capacity strengthening. The article emphasizes the importance of collaboration, sustainable financing, and equitable resource sharing to achieve the goal of local supply of medical products in Africa. [Extracted from the article]

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