IDC’s $10 million expansion boosts Zambia’s pharma…

Deputy Secretary to the Cabinet, Finance and Economic Development, Siazongo Siakalenge, has lauded International Drug Company Limited (IDC) for its $10 million expansion project, stressing that the project is a significant milestone for Zambia’s pharmaceutical sector. Speaking during a tour of IDC’s Kabwe facility, Mr Siakalenge said the investment demonstrates confidence in Zambia’s manufacturing potential market and aligns with the government’s vision to make Zambia a pharmaceutical hub in the region by 2030. Mr Siakalenge disclosed that the expansion includes two new plants for antibiotics production and upgrading of the existing infusion plant, meeting World Health Organisation’s (WHO) good manufacturing practice standards.

“International Drug Company Limited is responding decisively to our national pharmaceutical manufacturing strategy, adding that the project is expected to create approximately 1,000 jobs and introduce new skills and innovation to the sector,” Mr Siakalenge said. Mr Siakalenge commended IDC for responding to government business reforms and enjoying favourable fiscal incentives. He assured the company of continued government support, citing the Head of State’s emphasis on prioritizing local manufacturers.

The government has also pledged to address regulatory bottlenecks hindering the registration and commercialization of locally manufactured pharmaceutical products. Mr Siakalenge congratulated IDC on the project, stating that it sets an example for other industry players and contributes to Zambia’s health security. IDC Company Limited, General Manager, Altaf Patel, highlighted that the company, established in 1999, has been manufacturing medicines for 26 years, reviving former parastatal factories once known as the National Drug Company and General Pharmaceuticals.

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Mr Patel said the state of the art plant adheres to World Health Organisation GMP guidelines and represents one of the best manufacturing units in the country and the region, equipped with the latest pharmaceutical technologies. He said that the facility is expected to create 1,000 direct jobs in Kabwe, promising significant benefits for the local community and the nation. “The plant has received official licensing from authorities including ZAMRA, and the management hopes the government official will visit to witness the investment and its potential impact on healthcare and job creation in Zambia,” he said

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