S1 Episode 5: Azuka Okeke

In this compelling episode of Policy Unpacked, we speak with Azuka Okeke, an innovator in pharmaceutical systems strengthening and health supply chains across Africa. As CEO of ARC_ESM, Azuka leads strategic initiatives to transform how essential medicines are distributed, especially in resource-limited settings.

She shares her journey into public health and pharmacy, reflects on personal resilience, and discusses how global partnerships, inclusive leadership, and data-driven innovation are reshaping Nigeria’s pharmaceutical landscape.

What We Cover in This Episode:

1. Azuka’s Journey & Leadership

• How she entered pharmacy and public health

• Leading through personal and professional challenges

2. Strengthening Supply Chains

• Systemic barriers and promising tools improving delivery

• How ARC-ESM is transforming pharmaceutical logistics

3. Global Partnerships & Innovation

• Collaborating with MIT, ASU, and others

• Opportunities for Nigerian pharma over the next five years

4. Pharmacy Workforce & Access

• Why pharmacists must lead system change

• Their role in improving care for women and children

5. Equity, Quality & Local Manufacturing

• Ensuring fair access in underserved areas

• Balancing sustainability and quality in local production

6. Vision & GPN Partnership

• Azuka’s top priorities for system reform

• What excites her about joining forces with GPN

Key Themes

• Leadership through challenge

• Fixing medicine supply chains

• Global-local partnerships

• Pharmacists as change agents

• Equity and smart innovation

  
  

  You can find more information about ARC_ESM at:

  • LinkedIn: Africa Resource Center for Excellence in Supply Chain Managementhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/arc-esm
  • Twitter (X): @ARC_ESM https://x.com/ARC_ESM?t=OVUKWtp0oAU3e8n3tYekHQ&s=09
  • Instagram: @thearc_esm https://www.instagram.com/arc_esm?igsh=ZzM0c3A4ZWlhMzR5

  
  

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