Cipla, South Africa’s third largest pharmaceutical manufacturer, announced that it has been awarded a share of the South African Government’s National ARV tender for TEE and TLD. The contract is effective from 1 July 2019 and is valid for three years.
Paul Miller, CEO of Cipla South Africa, said Cipla is proud to once again partner with State to reduce treatment costs as we strive towards ensuring that people have access to quality, affordable treatment. “We are extremely proud to have won this tender as we see a future where good health is expected, not for the few but for the many,” said Miller.
In his 2018 State of the Nation speech, President Cyril Ramaphosa, stated: “We will initiate an additional two million people on antiretroviral treatment by December 2020.” At the time, the Department of Health reported that an estimated 4 189 070 people were on ARVs.
South Africa’s HIV programme is the biggest in the world, according to the latest data of the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC).
Minister of Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, said South Africa aligns with the United Nation’s 90/90/90 strategy to curb new HIV infections. According to the United Nations, “by 2020, 90% of all people living with HIV will know their HIV status. By 2020, 90% of all people with diagnosed HIV infection will receive sustained antiretroviral therapy. By 2020, 90% of all people receiving antiretroviral therapy will have viral suppression.”
Cipla has a legacy of pioneering affordable ARVs to ensure access to medication for more people: in 2001, it produced the world-first three-in-one fixed combination drug, available at less than $1 per day, thereby enabling countless more patients to have access to life-saving medication.
Cipla recently launched a new triple-combination ARV treatment, Reydin, that comprises tenofovir (TDF), lamivudine (3TC) and dolutegravir (DTG), which adds to Cipla’s comprehensive portfolio of HIV medication.
Cipla has a long-standing history of working closely with government through previous tenders awarded to ensure that people get access to the necessary treatment. “This successful tender, manufactured locally at our Durban facility, is again testament to Cipla’s high quality product portfolio and continued commitment to excellence,” said Miller.