ARAC International Strategic Communications - >ReliefWeb Analysis
Format>Source:UNODC | Posted:31 Jan 2023 | Originally published:31 Jan 2023

Key takeaways

In the Sahel countries and their neighbours, the high prevalence of infectious diseases, including malaria, coupled with challenges in terms of the availability and affordability of and access to healthcare, creates an environment in which the demand for medical products and services is not fully met through formal channels.

The disparity between the demand for and supply of regulated pharmaceutical products leaves room for trafficking, provides an incentive for the involvement of organized criminal groups and fuels the ongoing threat to public safety and public health in the Sahel countries.

Between January 2017 and December 2021, at least 605 tons of different medical products were seized in West Africa during international operations...

continue reading