The Rhodesia Herald, October 7, 1978
LIFE-SAVING drugs of world importance can now be manufactured in Rhodesia, said Mr Maurice Kramer, managing director of CAPS Holdings Ltd.
Through termination processes based on maize and molasses, Rhodesia could now manufacture and export anti-bacteria and sulphonamide drugs such as penicillin, glucose and sulphur to an established world market, he said.
Import of these drugs cost Rhodesia $10 million a year.
Planning was still an early stage, but with Government approval, a pilot project could be started at a cost of $100 000.
Full production facilities could be available early next year leading to 24-hour output at an investment of $500 000.
Container vessels for these pharmaceutical medicines could be manufactured from local materials.
There would be no need approach any overseas market to supply any part of the operation.
The breakthrough had come from research and experimental studies solely from Rhodesia. No assistance was received from overseas laboratories.
LESSONS FOR TODAY
- The local manufacture of critical drugs and other goods is essential in the development of the country.
- Not only will it reduce imports and the outflow of foreign currency, but it will also result in the creation of local jobs and enable the economy to grow.
- Government on its part has been encouraging the establishment of local drug manufacturing companies especially under Education 5.0. Some universities and tertiary institutions have in recent years, made breakthroughs in the manufacturing of drugs and other medical-related tools.
- Government should continue to ensure the survival and revival of key drug manufacturing companies such as CAPS Holdings.