Allergy and immunology specialists in Africa are urging that allergic diseases be recognized as a public health priority, highlighting that millions suffer from underdiagnosed and poorly managed conditions. This call to action coincides with World Allergy Week 2026, as the African Alliance for Allergy and Clinical Immunology (AFRICALLI) emphasizes the need for improved care and recognition of these health issues across the continent.

IOL reports that Senegal’s locally manufactured hydroxyurea and Nigeria’s sickle-cell research are expanding Africa’s capacity to treat sickle cell disease, which disproportionately affects the continent. The report says the efforts strengthen regional responses, but significant obstacles remain around access, affordability and broader care for patients across affected countries within health systems.

Tanzanian Prime Minister Dr. Mwigulu Nchemba has called on Africa to build its own capacity to finance, manage and produce essential health services rather than relying long-term on foreign aid and external systems. Speaking on September 9, 2026, on behalf of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, he opened the Second International Primary Healthcare Conference in Arusha, which brought together more than 2,700 participants from 27 countries.

A new report suggests that governments and global health donors should explore the potential of private pharmacies as a means to enhance access to care for HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria. This recommendation comes in light of decreasing funding for public health systems globally. The report is titled "Private Pharmacies as a Delivery Channel for HIV, TB, and Malaria Care."

Tanzania and Algeria are moving to deepen cooperation in pharmaceutical manufacturing, exploring technology transfer, technical expertise and investment to strengthen Tanzania's domestic production capacity. According to Daily News, the initiative followed a meeting in Algiers between the Tanzanian ambassador and Algerian officials, and aims to open opportunities for supplying medicines and medical equipment to wider African markets.

The Kenyan government has stopped parallel importation of medicines and health technologies to enhance oversight and protect citizens from substandard and counterfeit medical products. Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale announced that all pharmaceutical imports must now go through approved channels to ensure compliance with quality, safety, and efficacy standards.