Viatris produces first locally manufactured ARVs in South Africa

SOUTH AFRICA— American pharmaceutical giant Viatris has achieved a significant milestone by producing its first locally manufactured batch of antiretroviral (ARV) medicines at its upgraded facility in Isando. 

This marks a significant step in the company’s ongoing investment in South Africa and its dedication to ensuring critical medicines are accessible to needy communities.  

This came shortly after the South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (Sahpra) granted the Isando facility a license for local ARV production. 

This approval has expanded the facility’s manufacturing capacity, enabling it to meet the growing demand for life-saving medications better.  

Prashant Sisodia, head of ARV Institutional Business at Viatris, announced that the company has invested R100 million (US$5.536 million) to to modernise the facility. 

This upgrade aligns with global manufacturing standards and boosts local production, supporting South Africa’s Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan. 

Sisodia emphasized that Viatris has been a trusted ally in the fight against HIV for years. 

Since 2015, the company has worked with the National Department of Health (NDOH) to deliver over 172 million doses of first-line ARVs.  

Through its recent investments, Viatris aims to empower its workforce and enhance South Africa’s healthcare infrastructure. 

Sisodia noted that these efforts not only strengthen local manufacturing but also contribute to broader economic and health goals.  

HIV remains a significant challenge in South Africa. 

According to Statistics SA (2022), approximately 13.9% of the population is living with HIV, totalling around 8.45 million people. 

Among adults aged 15 to 49, the prevalence rate stands at 19.6%.  

Beyond ARV production, Viatris actively supports South Africa’s healthcare system in areas such as cardiovascular health, pain management, and central nervous system disorders. 

Additionally, the company has partnered with local organizations to improve healthcare access.  

For instance, Viatris has worked with Rhiza Babuyile to open a clinic in Diepsloot and collaborated with Rhiza Ventures to empower nurses to own and operate clinics in their communities. 

These efforts have led to the establishment of Mpathy Clinics, nurse-led facilities providing affordable, high-quality care in locations such as Naledi (Soweto), Gugulethu (Cape Town), and Umlazi (KwaZulu-Natal). 

With approximately 250 employees in South Africa, Viatris continues to demonstrate its commitment to advancing healthcare and supporting the country’s fight against HIV and other critical health challenges. 

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