Is Africa ready to bring to market its own medicines? A focus on GLP preclinical drug development

Enhancing Africa's readiness in terms of preclinical drug development is crucial for addressing healthcare needs and advancing pharmaceutical innovation on the continent. The process of bringing new medicines to market in Africa hinges on its ability to navigate the complexities of preclinical drug development effectively. Although various issues limit progression, good laboratory practice (GLP)-compliant preclinical trials constitute a significant factor. Here, we examine Africa's ability to bring its medicines to market, with a specific focus on principles and practices of GLP in preclinical drug development. While significant strides have been made in human resources and the establishment of GLP-certified facilities for preclinical research, further effort is required. Addressing such GLP-related challenges would unlock opportunities for pharmaceutical market expansion in Africa.