Eli Lilly and Egypt’s Eva Pharma announced on Wednesday that they would collaborate to localize the production of Olumiant, a rheumatoid arthritis treatment, in Africa.
Under the agreement, Eva Pharma will supply Olumiant to 49 countries across Africa.
This will help to increase access to the drug in the region and reduce the cost of treatment for patients.
Lilly and Eva Pharma have been collaborating since 2021. In 2022, the companies partnered to manufacture insulin in Africa.
Eva Pharma is expected to begin sales of locally manufactured Olumiant by 2026.
Olumiant is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and hair loss caused by an autoimmune disease called alopecia areata.
It recorded $922.6 million in sales last year.
This partnership is a significant step forward in Eli Lilly’s efforts to expand access to its medicines in Africa.
It is also a testament to the company’s commitment to working with local partners to improve the health of people in developing countries.