A Success Story in Nigeria’s Healthcare Industry
EL-SAMAT Pharmaceuticals Limited, located in Kwara State, is a lead firm in the country’s healthcare sector. Established in 2007, the company ventured into full-scale production in 2010, specializing in the manufacturing of needle and syringe products. With an annual production and sales capacity of 160 million 5ml needle and syringe units, EL-SAMAT Pharmaceuticals Limited has become one of the top three producers and the only woman-owned company in Nigeria.
Despite its success, EL-SAMAT faced numerous challenges, particularly in the area of importation. The company encountered difficulties in sourcing high-quality materials and equipment, resulting in production delays and increased costs. Additionally, the complex importation process hindered the company’s growth and expansion plans.
However, EL-SAMAT’s fortunes took a positive turn when the company became a beneficiary of the BRAVE Women Nigeria Project Batch A. This project, designed to support women-owned small and medium enterprises (WSMEs) Lead firms and Business Associations, provided the necessary financial and technical assistance to help EL-SAMAT overcome its challenges and accelerate its growth.
Thanks to the matching grant received through the BRAVE Women Nigeria Project, EL-SAMAT Pharmaceuticals Limited was able to invest in two additional mold machines, significantly expanding its production capacity to twice the initial production capacity. The acquisition of these machines not only enabled the company to meet the increasing demand for its products in Nigeria but also paved the way for future expansion into other African markets.
The matching grant had a profound impact on EL-SAMAT’s value chain, enabling the company to strengthen its partnerships with suppliers and distributors. By streamlining its supply chain and implementing efficient distribution networks, EL-SAMAT was able to improve its product availability throughout Nigeria. As a result, the company witnessed a significant boost in sales, with 60% of its products being sold in the thriving Kano City market.
Furthermore, EL-SAMAT Pharmaceuticals Limited is now actively exploring opportunities to export its products to Ghana and Togo. With an ambitious vision to cover the rest of Africa, EL-SAMAT aims to contribute to improving healthcare accessibility across the continent. By expanding its market reach, the company anticipates creating more job opportunities and fostering economic growth both within its local community and the broader Nigerian economy.
EL-SAMAT’s success story extends beyond its own operations. Through the BRAVE Women Nigeria Project, the company has positively impacted other WSMEs within its vicinity. By enhancing its production capacity, EL-SAMAT increased its demand for raw materials and contracted services, thereby stimulating the growth of local suppliers and service providers. Additionally, the company has actively engaged with other businesses, offering mentorship and business-to-business support to help them overcome their challenges and thrive.
EL-SAMAT Pharmaceuticals Limited stands as a testament to the transformative power of financial support and technical assistance for women-owned businesses. By overcoming importation challenges and leveraging the grant received through the BRAVE Women Nigeria Project, EL-SAMAT has solidified its position as a leading player in Nigeria’s healthcare industry. With an unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and social impact, EL-SAMAT Pharmaceuticals Limited is well on its way to becoming a major player in the African healthcare market, driving economic growth and improving healthcare accessibility across the continent.
