Codix Bio, a diagnostics manufacturer in Nigeria, plans to produce 147 million rapid diagnostic test kits. These kits are for HIV, malaria, and tuberculosis, addressing a significant gap due to recent cuts in US aid. This is a historic step, as it represents the first large-scale production of these health tools in Africa.
Local manufacturing can help improve test kit availability in remote areas. The company aims to increase local sourcing of materials, with a target to achieve 90% domestic content by 2027. Complete local manufacturing of the kits, including all components, is planned for 2030.
Nigeria's health system currently faces challenges due to limited funding. The government allocates about 5% of its budget to health, below the 15% target set in the Abuja Declaration. To support local production, governments need to buy more test kits. Examples from other African nations show that strong local support can lead to successful manufacturing.
Difficult words
- manufacture — to make goods in large amounts.manufacturer, manufacturing
- production — the process of making something.
- diagnostic — related to finding diseases or conditions.diagnostics
- availability — how easily something can be obtained.
- government — the group of people who rule a country.
- support — to help someone or something.
- materials — substances used to make things.
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- How do you think local manufacturing affects healthcare in Nigeria?
- What challenges do you think Codix Bio will face in achieving their goals?
- Why is local sourcing of materials important for manufacturing?
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