A Critical Analysis of Medicinal Product Policy in Angola: An East African Regional Perspective,

Medicinal product policy is fundamental to effective health systems. Angola, though in Southern Africa, encounters policy challenges comparable to those in East Africa, justifying a regional analytical perspective. This study aimed to critically analyse the development and contemporary status of medicinal product policy in Angola, drawing comparative insights from East African policy frameworks to identify strengths, weaknesses, and transferable lessons. A qualitative critical policy analysis was undertaken. This comprised a systematic review of Angolan policy documents, legislation, and strategic plans, alongside a comparative analysis of frameworks from selected East African Community states. These data were supplemented by key informant interviews with national policymakers and stakeholders. The analysis revealed persistent fragmentation within Angola's medicine regulatory and supply systems, undermining equitable access. A significant finding was the disparity in medicine availability between urban and rural areas, with the latter experiencing frequent essential medicine stock-outs. Policy alignment with East African models was found to be incomplete and inconsistently applied. Angola's medicinal product policy has established formal structures but is characterised by critical implementation deficits and systemic fragmentation. While regional frameworks provide useful templates, their successful adaptation requires significant contextualisation and enhanced institutional capacity. Priorities should include integrating fragmented medicine supply and regulatory functions, developing a costed implementation plan for existing policy with a focus on last-mile distribution, and establishing a formal platform for sustained knowledge exchange with East African regulatory agencies. Pharmaceutical policy, health policy, Angola, East Africa, access to medicines, regulatory systems This research provides a critical analysis of Angolan medicinal product policy through a regional lens, offering evidence to inform policy integration and implementation efforts.