Moving in from the Margin

The most effective national drug policies are developed with input from the public. This input can come directly from concerned individuals or from representatives such as consumer organisations and other non-governmental organisations (NGOs) working toward public health goals. When the public --the consumers of medicines and health care-- is left out, the policies usually end up serving the interests of the government health bureaucracies and the pharmaceutical industry meant to be regulated by government.

Since many African governments have already devised national drug policies, HAI organised a regional workshop to focus on improving their implementation, especially to increase consumer involvement in the process.

Thirty-four participants from eleven African countries shared experiences and expertise as grassroots community organisers, consumer activists, church-based NGO leaders, drug information experts, journalists, pharmacists, and clinical pharmacologists. They examined the strengths and weaknesses in national drug policy development and implementation, discussed ways to reduce irrational drug use, and formulated strategies for improving consumer and NGO participation in national drug policies and for increasing rational drug use.

This workshop was the second in a series held as part of HAI's Africa programme.

Copies of the report can be ordered free of charge from the HAI Africa Programme office. Bulk orders may be charged postage and handling.