Patenting of Pharmaceuticals and Development in Sub-Saharan Africa

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This book critically examines the patent protection of medication in the context of the HIV/AIDS, malaria, and tuberculosis epidemics affecting Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). It highlights systemic issues within the global patent regime, which fails to ensure access to affordable life-saving medications in the region. The author argues for the integration of human development concepts into global patent law and policy to maintain the relevance of pharmaceutical patents in SSA. This integrative approach advocates for the establishment of public health and human development exceptions to patent rights, aimed at increasing access to essential medications for treating epidemics. By incorporating diverse perspectives on laws, institutions, practices, and politics, the book encourages SSA countries to adopt an evidence-based strategy for implementing global patent standards domestically. This includes local need assessments and empirical data to inform patent law-making. Additionally, it calls for the revision of patent rules with a focus on affordability and accessibility, while considering the views of individuals and pro-access organizations in health-related legislation. The approach is attentive to the public health needs of affected citizens and emphasizes the importance of developing local pharmaceutical manufacturing capabilities in SSA.