A global battle for access to Covid-19 tests, vaccines, treatments and other essential supplies has highlighted the challenge many African countries have faced for decades.   

Most African countries, with their developing health systems, have traditionally been locked out of access to some of the most essential medicines and equipment. Their participation in high-priced and competitive international pharmaceutical markets has been limited. These challenges have become glaringly clear during the coronavirus pandemic, as African countries have faced shortages in everything from gloves, gowns and face masks to testing kits and ventilators.  ..

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