Boehringer Ingelheim-a global research-driven biopharmaceutical company-launched its new scientific office in Nairobi.
According to Marseille Onyango- Head of Human Pharma for sub-Saharan Africa and Kenya leadership team- The new office will serve as the company’s headquarters for the sub-Saharan Africa region and is poised to expand the company’s global presence in the region.
“By establishing a foothold in the region, the company is demonstrating its commitment to advancing sustainable development for current and future generations, as well as improving human and animal health,” Marseille said.
He added: “Boehringer aim to deliver global best practices and innovative therapies to address the ongoing health requirements of patients and animals locally and across the region. We are excited to expand our footprint in Africa and look forward to strengthening our collaboration with the government and different key stakeholders in the industry with the ultimate objective of improving the lives of our patients through better access to healthcare and innovative therapies.”
While Dr. Joseph Lenai, Director, Intergovernmental Relations, Health Sector coordination and International Health relations, Ministry of Health who represented the Health CS Susan Nakhumicha said that the government encourages strategic partnerships between the Ministry of Health and global pharmaceutical companies adding that these partnerships will have a roll in effect of ensuring the sustainability of health systems and support nation self-reliance in accordance with the Right to Health, International Health Regulations and Treaties.
He further added that the strategic partnership between the Ministry of Health and global pharma companies presents an opportunity for substantial investment in the continent for pharmaceuticals, through locating and relocating manufacturing industries within Kenya.
Boehringer Ingelheim strives to develop better therapies, enable better healthcare solutions and contribute to a better world for generations to come, which is in line with the company’s Sustainable Development – For Generations (SD4G) goals. Through the office opening, the company is one step closer to achieving its 2030 sustainable commitment which is to impact the lives and health of 50 million people in vulnerable communities.
Mohammed Tawil- Regional MD and Head of Human Pharma at Boehringer Ingelheim India, the Middle East, Turkey, and Africa (IMETA) said: “For over two decades, Boehringer Ingelheim has been committed to improving human and animal health in Africa.”
He added: “Our presence here will enable us to better understand the needs of the local communities and work in partnership with healthcare providers and regulators to bring healthcare solutions in areas of unmet medical need. We are dedicated to making a positive impact on the health and well-being of patients, animals, and communities at large, and we believe that our investment in Kenya is an important step toward achieving this goal. We look forward to building stronger relationships in Kenya and making a meaningful contribution to the country’s healthcare sector.”
Chargé d’affaires of the Embassy of Federal Republic of Germany in Kenya, Thomas Wimmer said: “I would like to congratulate Boehringer Ingelheim for its investment in Kenya. The new scientific office is a testament to the strength and vitality of the relationship between our two nations. The company’s dedication to improving patient and animal health outcomes through the development of new therapies and treatments is inspiring. I hope to see many accomplishments that Boehringer Ingelheim will achieve in the years to come.”
Marianne Abouelkheir, the GM and Head of Human Pharma for LINEA and SSA Boehringer Ingelheim said: “Sub Saharan Africa is an important region for Boehringer Ingelheim’s operations. Our commitment to excellence and comprehensive understanding of patient needs in the region makes us confident to deliver value across a number of therapeutic areas to tackle diseases such as hypertension and diabetes.”
In Kenya, Boehringer Ingelheim has been active with its SD4G plans. ‘Access to Healthcare’ is one of the key initiatives that was launched in Kenya in August 2022. To date, the initiative has offered comprehensive services to more than 1000 patients including medical screening and follow-ups for people living with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). In 2018, the company also launched the Last Mile initiative in Kenya which is an integrated, solutions-driven program that seeks to address crucial animal health challenges by creating consistent availability of animal medical resources in hard-to-reach areas.
Boehringer Ingelheim’s overall holistic approach focuses on the value of collaboration, the integration of expertise through long-term partnerships, and the development of breakthrough therapies. The company will always strive to find solutions to overcome health challenges of today and tomorrow, as well as improve health outcomes for all.
