Pharma Expo 2025 to spotlight health innovations in Cameroon.

The announcement was made by the Chair of the Organising Committee, Dr Franck Nana, who is also President of the National Order of Pharmacists of Cameroon. This was during a recent press conference in Yaounde.  He said the event will span September 11 to 13 in Douala.

He said the exposition will be held under the high patronage of the President of the Republic, Paul Biya, with support from the Ministry of Public Health.

The theme for the exercise in its second edition this year is: “Import substitution of conventional medicines, production of improved traditional medicines: opportunities and challenges in the pharmaceutical sector”.

Speaking to the press, Dr Nana explained that experts will during the even discuss pathways to reduce reliance on imported medicines, strengthen research and production of improved traditional remedies. He said the goal is project Cameroon as a sub region leader in the pharmaceutical industry.

Promoting local solutions

According to Dr Nana, Pharma Expo 2025 will place particular emphasis on promoting the results of local research, including the work of pharmacists, chemists and physiotherapists. This, he said, will allow innovations in traditional medicine to gain visibility and encourage their integration into broader health strategies.

He added that, it “…will be an opportunity to bring to light the work of pharmacists, researchers and health professionals in Cameroon, while exploring new solutions for patients”. 

It emerged from the conference that, the event will serve as a platform for collaboration between health professionals, industries and researchers. 

Programme highlights

According to Dr Nana, over 400,000 participants are expected during the three-day programme. Delegates, he detailed, will include pharmacists, doctors, dental surgeons, nurses, traditional medicine practitioners, nutritionists, academics and students, representing Cameroon and about ten African countries. 

The exhibition, he added, will feature a scientific forum, presentations of new research findings, networking opportunities and professional exchanges. Exhibitors, he declared, will showcase pharmaceutical products, medical supplies and technologies relevant to the health sector.

A cultural segment to showcase the country's geographical and cultural diversity is also planned. The closing ceremony, it was said, will include a charity evening to support children living with cancer.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3547 of Thursday August 28, 2025