Entrance Pharmaceutical and Research Centre, a subsidiary of the Tobinco Group has received the I.S.O 9001 Certification from TUV NORD, a German Company to develop, manufacture and distribute pharmaceutical drugs for domestic and international markets.
The latest certification opens the company to bigger opportunities quality products, standardized structure, training for personnel according to the international pharmaceutical standards.
Currently, only two pharmaceutical companies in Ghana have ISO 9001 certification.
Announcing the new certification, Executive Chairman of Tobinco Group, Samuel Amo Tobbin says the attainment of this certification will help the company attain its goal acquiring a medical aircraft for export and distribution of drugs in the sub region.
This the company says is determined to achieve it in the next five years.
“The acquisition of the medical aircraft will revolutionize the industry and boost access to medical care that will eventually save numerous lives”, he said.
Mr. Tobbin also noted that most drugs in Ghana are not up to standard and hence cannot be relied on to provide ultimate health to consumers despite the numerous promises.
He noted that Ghana needs to venture into more advanced medical research to break the ground, discover and develop drugs that meets international standard and more affordable.
He cautioned that the danger of substandard drugs poses several risks and even death to the many consumers who buy it.
Managing Director of Entrance Pharmaceutical Center, Kwadwo Asare Twerefour expressed concern over the high cost of importing drugs into the country, adding that with the new certification, drugs could be developed locally, bringing the prices down without compromising security.
He however called on government to increase support to pharmaceutical companies to expand, employ more and export internationally.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Ghana Standard Authority (GSA), Prof. Alex Doodo was happy about the company’s certification, urging other companies to do same and enjoy the benefit of accessing the international market.
Beyond that, he urged companies to develop and strengthen management systems to sustain the companies. He was worried that many successful companies collapse after a few years because of these poor or ineffective systems.
“As Ghana moves towards industrialization, the most important thing an organization needs, is to have are management systems to support the growth and expansion necessary for the future.
Prof. Doodo cautioned the company and others who have acquired the certification not to be complacent, disclosing that it will be audited periodically by the GSA to ensure compliance.