The National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), South Africa, to improve the  traditional medicine industry value chain in Nigeria and Africa.

The partnership focuses on research and development, human capital development and community engagement in the context of the traditional medicine value chain. It is  also expected to produce various socio-economic benefits, including business and investment opportunities, job and income generation opportunities for stakeholders involved in the African traditional medicine pharmaceutical value chain, particularly traditional health practitioners. 

The Minister of State for Health,  Adeleke Mamora, said the MoU was part of the efforts to remove all barriers hindering the growth of traditional medicine in Africa.

Director General of NIPRD, Obi Adigwe, said the agreement would benefit the entire African continent.

The university’s Deputy Vice Chancellor and Head of the College of Humanities, Prof. Nhlanhla Mkhize, described the collaboration as the first of its kind.