Akums-Zambia JV: A New Hub for African Healthcare

In a strategic move to improve access to affordable healthcare, Indian pharmaceutical company Akums Drugs & Pharmaceuticals has entered into a joint venture with the Government of the Republic of Zambia (GRZ) to set up a state-of-the-art medicine manufacturing facility in Zambia.

The facility will focus on producing high-quality, cost-effective generic medicines for the Zambian population and will also serve as a regional export hub. Target markets include several neighboring African countries such as Zimbabwe, Namibia, Botswana, Malawi, Tanzania, and Mozambique.

Headquartered in Zambia, the joint venture will see Akums holding a 51% majority stake, while the remaining 49% will be held by the GRZ through a designated state entity. Governance will be managed by a joint board comprising representatives from both partners.

The formal establishment of the joint venture is expected by the third quarter of FY2026, after which construction of the manufacturing plant will commence.

This collaboration marks a major step in strengthening Zambia’s pharmaceutical self-sufficiency and advancing healthcare accessibility across the region.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.