Ouagadougou: The third edition of the International Pharmacy and Parapharmacy Exhibition (Pharma Expo BF) commenced in Ouagadougou, providing a platform for discussions and actions among health professionals and decision-makers aimed at improving access to safe, effective, and quality medicines.
According to Burkina Information Agency, this event, held under the theme "Access to essential medicines and the fight against substandard medicines," assembles health professionals, pharmaceutical manufacturers, researchers, health authorities, technical and financial partners, and investors from Burkina Faso and several other countries for a three-day event. Dr. Lassane Zongo, the general commissioner of the show and president of the national organizing committee, emphasized that Pharma Expo BF serves as a platform for meetings, innovations, and partnerships dedicated to African pharmaceutical sovereignty.
Dr. Zongo described the fair as "an essential crossroads" where stakeholders in the pharmaceutical sub-sector collaborate to ensure that quality health products are available to the population at an affordable cost. He stated that the event includes high-level panels, continuing education workshops, B2B meetings, and a large exhibition area, all aimed at taking a decisive step towards universal access to quality medicines for every Burkinabe.
The Minister of Health, Dr. Robert Lucien Jean-Claude Kargougou, highlighted the importance of combating substandard and falsified medicines as a strategic priority for the Burkinabe government. He mentioned actions under the National Pharmaceutical Strategic Plan, such as market control strengthening, improved availability of health products, and promotion of the local pharmaceutical industry. Dr. Kargougou encouraged attendees to use the event as an opportunity to forge partnerships, identify investment opportunities, and contribute to pharmaceutical sovereignty.
Dr. Ousmane Bougouma, head of the 3rd edition of Pharma Expo BF and president of the Transitional Legislative Assembly, advocated for local drug production and collaboration between pharmacists and traditional healers to enhance quality care for Burkinabe people. He noted President Ibrahim Traore's manifesto aimed at developing a national pharmaceutical industry and integrating modern healthcare and traditional medicine.
Dr. Nedie Nao, the ceremony's patron, highlighted the expo's role in finding solutions to substandard products in Burkina Faso, commending the authorities' focus on the pharmaceutical sector. The Ambassador of China to Burkina Faso, Zhao Deyong, welcomed China's selection as the guest of honor for the expo's third edition.
The event features participation from 1,500 individuals from 11 countries, taking place from May 7 to 9, 2026, in Ouagadougou.