New Delhi: Akums Drugs & Pharmaceuticals Ltd., India’s Largest Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO), proudly announces a landmark milestone in its global journey, the groundbreaking ceremony of its first overseas manufacturing facility in Zambia.
The event marks the beginning of a transformative partnership between Akums and the Government of the Republic of Zambia (GRZ), symbolizing a shared vision to make high-quality, affordable medicines accessible to millions across Africa. This initiative represents a major step forward in Akums’ global expansion strategy, reinforcing the company’s mission to deliver healthcare excellence, strengthen exports, and create sustainable pharmaceutical ecosystems in emerging regions.
The upcoming facility, to be located in the capital city of Lusaka at the Lusaka South Multi-Facility Economic Zone, will be constructed on approximately 40 acres of land. It will produce a comprehensive range of dosage forms including tablets, hard gelatin capsules, liquids, injectables, topicals, and beta-lactam products, addressing the growing demand for essential and life-saving medicines in Zambia and neighboring countries. The project is also expected to create over 1,000 new employment opportunities, contributing significantly to local economic growth.
Speaking at the ceremony, Mr. Sandeep Jain, Managing Director and Founder, Akums Drugs & Pharmaceuticals Ltd., said, “Our philosophy has always been centered on patient well-being and accessibility. This partnership with the Government of Zambia represents a powerful alignment of vision to ensure that high-quality, affordable medicines reach every individual in need. Through advanced manufacturing practices, global quality systems, and a patient-centric approach, we aim to strengthen Zambia’s healthcare foundation while fostering regional self-reliance and innovation. This facility also marks an important step in Akums’ global manufacturing expansion, as we actively evaluate new opportunities to strengthen our international presence and serve healthcare needs across continents.”
The Zambia Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Facility, developed in partnership with Akums, will be the nation’s first large-scale pharmaceutical production unit, capable of manufacturing multiple dosage forms across a range of therapeutic areas. The plant will adhere to stringent international quality and safety standards, ensuring the availability of reliable and affordable medicines locally. Further, the facility will cater to SADC, COMESA, and the larger African continent.
President Hakainde Hichilema officially launched the construction, calling it a historic step toward medical self-sufficiency and economic empowerment. Minister of Youth, Sport, and Arts, Mr. Elvis Nkandu, also highlighted the project’s transformative potential to reduce Zambia’s reliance on imported medicines, lower treatment costs, and enhance national health security.
With Zambia’s fast-growing pharmaceutical market, driven by expanding healthcare access, government-led affordability initiatives, and rising demand for quality medicines, this facility will serve as a pivotal force in strengthening the healthcare ecosystem. It will also generate large-scale employment, build technical capacity, and position Zambia as a regional pharmaceutical hub in Southern Africa. This milestone stands as a shared commitment to a healthier, more self-reliant Africa.
