HPA Contributes to the 5th EPSS International Suppliers Conference

CIPS/Health Procurement Africa was proud to contribute to the 5th EPSS International Suppliers Conference, held on 28 April 2026, under the theme “Fostering Global Strategic Partnerships for a Resilient Pharmaceutical Supply Chain.” HPA was represented at the conference by Seifu Isa, reinforcing the organisation’s commitment to strengthening procurement capacity and partnerships across Africa’s health sector.

The conference brought together key stakeholders from across the local and global pharmaceutical landscape, providing a strategic platform to address shared challenges and emerging opportunities within Ethiopia’s pharmaceutical supply chain.

Advancing Collaboration and Market Understanding

The event aimed to showcase Ethiopia’s pharmaceutical market potential and outline key regulatory requirements for international suppliers. It also offered valuable insights into how ongoing global crises are affecting pharmaceutical supply chains in Ethiopia, while facilitating meaningful dialogue and collaboration between local manufacturers, international suppliers, regulators, and development partners.

In addition, the conference focused on expanding and diversifying the supplier base to support the development of a more precise, measurable, and risk‑focused supply chain. The programme concluded by recognising and honouring the commitment and outstanding performance of EPSS’s top suppliers, celebrating excellence and long‑term partnership.

Leadership Perspectives on Health System Progress

The conference was officially opened by H.E. Dr. Mekdes Daba, Minister of Health of Ethiopia, who highlighted the country’s notable progress in reducing maternal and child mortality, strengthening local pharmaceutical production, advancing digital transformation, and expanding health infrastructure development. Her remarks underscored Ethiopia’s vision for a resilient and sustainable health system supported by strong supply chains.

Building Resilience Through Strategic Engagement

In his remarks, Dr. Abdulkader emphasised that the conference went beyond its stated objectives. He described the event as a strategically important forum that allows suppliers to engage directly with regulatory and investment experts, providing deeper insight into Ethiopia’s rapidly evolving pharmaceutical market. Such engagement, he noted, is essential for building resilient, responsive, and risk‑focused supply chains in an increasingly uncertain global environment.

Dr. Abdulkader concluded with a powerful reminder of the human impact that underpins pharmaceutical supply chains:

“Behind every contract and every shipping container is a patient—whether in a rural health post or an urban hospital—waiting for hope, healing, and timely care. Our partnership is the bridge that delivers that hope.”

Through its participation and representation by Seifu Isa, HPA reaffirmed its commitment to supporting collaborative, ethical, and effective procurement practices that strengthen health outcomes across the continent.