Breakthrough in Healthcare Technology for Africa
A Nigerian health tech firm, Codix Bio, has been awarded a license to develop and manufacture a new generation of rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) royalty-free for African consumers. The technology transfer from South Korean firm SD Biosensor marks a significant breakthrough for the World Health Organization’s (WHO) new Health Technology Access Programme (HTAP) and the non-profit Medicines Patent Pool.
The partnership aims to facilitate technology transfer to the Global South, addressing the shortage of local manufacturing capacity that left many countries vulnerable during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using SD Biosensor’s innovative technology, Codix Bio will first develop highly sensitive rapid tests for HIV/AIDS, capable of generating results within 20 minutes. The technology can also be adapted for tests for malaria and syphilis.
This collaboration is the result of a non-exclusive license signed between SD Biosensor and the Medicines Patent Pool in December 2023. The license allows for the development and manufacture of new diagnostic tools using SD Biosensor’s cutting-edge technology in low- and middle-income countries. The technology transfer is royalty-free for product sales in these countries, making the tests more affordable for local populations.
The WHO announcement coincided with the launch of the partnership at Codix Bio’s campus in Ogun State, Nigeria. “This landmark agreement is a defining moment in our journey of health-tech innovation,” said Sammy Ogunjimi, CEO of Codix Group. “With support from WHO and MPP, we are committed to producing high-quality, rapid diagnostic tests that can transform access to timely diagnosis across the continent.”
Hyo-Keun Lee, Vice Chairman of SD Biosensor, noted that the initiative demonstrates a collaborative model for building sustainable local manufacturing capacity. Yukiko Nakatani, WHO Assistant Director-General, Access to Medicines and Health Products, called the agreement “a major milestone in strengthening manufacturing capabilities in regions where they are needed most.”
The partnership between Codix Bio, SD Biosensor, WHO, and the Medicines Patent Pool represents a significant step towards promoting equitable access to diagnostics, a cornerstone of universal health coverage and pandemic preparedness.
