Episode 5- Azuka Okeke

In this compelling episode of Policy Unpacked, we speak with Azuka Okeke, an innovator in pharmaceutical systems strengthening and health supply chains across Africa. As CEO of ARC_ESM, Azuka leads strategic initiatives to transform how essential medicines are distributed, especially in resource-limited settings. 

She shares her journey into public health and pharmacy, reflects on personal resilience, and discusses how global partnerships, inclusive leadership, and data-driven innovation are reshaping Nigeria’s pharmaceutical landscape. 

What We Cover in This Episode: 

1. Azuka’s Journey & Leadership 

• How she entered pharmacy and public health 

• Leading through personal and professional challenges 

2. Strengthening Supply Chains 

• Systemic barriers and promising tools improving delivery 

• How ARC-ESM is transforming pharmaceutical logistics 

3. Global Partnerships & Innovation 

• Collaborating with MIT, ASU, and others 

• Opportunities for Nigerian pharma over the next five years 

4. Pharmacy Workforce & Access 

• Why pharmacists must lead system change 

• Their role in improving care for women and children 

5. Equity, Quality & Local Manufacturing 

• Ensuring fair access in underserved areas 

• Balancing sustainability and quality in local production 

6. Vision & GPN Partnership 

• Azuka’s top priorities for system reform 

• What excites her about joining forces with GPN 

Key Themes 

• Leadership through challenge 

• Fixing medicine supply chains 

• Global-local partnerships 

• Pharmacists as change agents 

• Equity and smart innovation 

  You can find more information about ARC_ESM at:

  • LinkedIn: Africa Resource Center for Excellence in Supply Chain Managementhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/arc-esm
  • Twitter (X): @ARC_ESM https://x.com/ARC_ESM?t=OVUKWtp0oAU3e8n3tYekHQ&s=09
  • Instagram: @thearc_esm https://www.instagram.com/arc_esm?igsh=ZzM0c3A4ZWlhMzR5

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