Chinese firm's auto-disable syringes to aid Africa

A Chinese company's plant in Rwanda has recently obtained pre-qualification from the World Health Organization for its autodisable syringes.

The latest development marked the first WHO-prequalified syringe product in Rwanda, underscoring Africa's growing capacity for producing essential vaccine syringes locally, said TKMD Rwanda, a subsidiary of Anhui Tiankang Medical Technology, in a recent news release.

The syringes, designed to be automatically disabled after a single use, are set to be supplied to UNICEF for vaccination initiatives across African nations.

Bai Jinkun, general manager of Tiankang Medical in Chuzhou, Anhui province, emphasized the significance of local syringe production in Africa.

He highlighted the challenges posed by raw material supply chains and the importance of mitigating risks associated with manufacturing medical products.

The AD syringes, endorsed by the WHO for vaccination and mandated in programs launched by the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization, play a crucial role in preventing the risk of reuse and cross-contamination during immunization efforts.

Their advanced safety features have proved effective in halting the transmission of blood-borne illnesses such as HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C.

Bai said syringe development has received financial and technological support from the Bill &Melinda Gates Foundation.

"The foundation's support has been instrumental in strengthening TKMD's confidence to supply UNICEF with locally produced syringes, thereby supporting immunization programs in low- and middle-income countries across Africa and enhancing pandemic preparedness on the continent," Bai said.

With sub-Saharan Africa alone requiring up to 500 million AD syringes annually for routine immunization programs, the demand for these vital medical supplies in the region is urgent, according to TKMD.

Historically, Africa has heavily relied on syringe imports from Asia, a process that can take three to four months by sea to reach many countries.

With an annual production capacity of 300 million units, the factory aims to supply AD syringes for immunization programs across Africa at an affordable price.

While currently focusing on producing 0.5 milliliter AD syringes to meet immediate needs, the factory is ready to adapt its product lines to address future requirements for other types of syringes.

Located in Rwamagana, Rwanda, the TKMD factory is set to play a pivotal role in creating local jobs and fostering sustainable operations in the community, the company said.

The factory will only hire locally to create jobs in the community and maintain a sustainable operation in the longer term. Currently, the factory employs 60 key staff members undergoing training to build technical and commercial expertise.

Tiankang Medical decided to invest in the Rwanda plant in 2019.The plant was put into operation in July this year, according to Tiankang Medical's official website.