Mauritius Develops 2025 Medicine Policy With WHO Support

In the 2025/2026 fiscal year, the World Health Organization (WHO) is supporting Mauritius in creating a national medicine policy to improve access to safe, quality medicines. Medicines are vital—they treat infections, manage pain, control chronic illnesses, and save lives. From mothers seeking antibiotics for their children to cancer patients needing critical treatments, medicines are lifelines.

Mauritius is developing this policy with WHO’s assistance. Senior Chief Executive of the Ministry of Health and Wellness, Mr. Sarwansingh Purmessur, emphasized at a workshop opening that the policy will ensure all Mauritians have access to good-quality medicines.

He added that this effort demonstrates the country’s commitment to achieving Universal Health Coverage.

Since Mauritius depends heavily on importing medicines, a strong national policy is essential. WHO’s representative, Dr. Anne Ancia, explained that a solid pharmaceutical policy will bring transparency, accountability, and resilience to the healthcare system—especially important amid growing health threats and economic uncertainties.

She called the workshop a “landmark” step towards ensuring all citizens have access to safe, effective, and affordable medicines.

The development process involves various health stakeholders, including clinicians, pharmacists, regulators, academics, wholesalers, and members of the Pharmacy Council.

To guide the process, WHO has brought in two top experts—Professor Fatima Suleman and Dr. Andy Gray from the WHO Collaborating Centre for Pharmaceutical Policy at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Their expertise will help tailor the policy to Mauritius’s specific needs.

This inclusive approach reflects the Ministry’s commitment to transparency and collaboration. It aims to create a policy that is widely accepted and effectively implemented.

WHO’s goal isn’t just to help draft the policy but to ensure it has a lasting impact—making sure the right medicines reach the right people at the right time, helping Mauritians live healthier, fuller lives.

Source: WHO Africa