Muscat: Menagen Pharmaceutical Industries factory has been established on a 12,000 square meter area with an investment exceeding OMR20 million. Located in the Rusayl Industrial Area, the factory has been constructed in accordance with the specifications set by the Ministry of Health and FDA. It is noteworthy that the factory is compliant with the European Medicines Agency (EMA) standards, making it the first of its kind in the Middle East to produce specialized medicines and medications for rare diseases.
The inauguration of this factory, which aims to strengthen pharmaceutical security in the Sultanate of Oman, was graciously sponsored by Dr. Hilal bin Ali Al Sabti, the Minister of Health. Dr. Khalfan bin Saif Al-Hassani, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Menagen Pharmaceutical Industries Factory, expressed his satisfaction with the completion of this project. He emphasized that the factory will play a crucial role in localizing the pharmaceutical industry in the Middle East and North Africa. This achievement is the result of dedicated efforts, continuous work, and meticulous planning.
Dr. Al-Hassani further stated that the realization of this idea was made possible through a clear vision and a mission that the team is determined to accomplish.
Hamad bin Saif Al Hassani, a member of the Board of Directors of the Menagin Pharmaceutical Factory, emphasized that the factory is a symbol of hope and a testament to the collective dedication to enhancing the quality of life for patients with rare and chronic illnesses. It is a groundbreaking facility in the region that will play a key role in transforming the pharmaceutical sector through the development of innovative and life-saving medications. He mentioned that the total project cost is anticipated to exceed OMR30 million in the upcoming phases.
Al Hassani further stated that the establishment of the factory was driven by a range of objectives, such as ensuring drug security, bolstering the national economy, generating employment opportunities to foster human capital growth, and serving as a hub for scientific research, innovation, technology transfer, and the attraction of skilled professionals, ideas, and talents.
He commended the unwavering support from governmental entities that are actively collaborating to create a conducive environment for industrial growth, as well as the partnership between the public and private sectors to drive progress and achieve mutual objectives.
Al Hassani highlighted that the Foundation is currently engaged in several upcoming projects, including a pioneering initiative in the realm of cell and gene therapy, which is unparalleled in the region. This endeavor underscores the organization's commitment to pioneering advanced therapeutic approaches targeting incurable and chronic diseases.
Al Hasani also highlighted that one of the projects in the pipeline is the establishment of the Ezz Pharmaceutical Industries Factory, specializing in intravenous solutions and various other medications consumed in Oman. The factory is scheduled to commence operations in the final quarter of this year in Nizwa.
Al Hasani further elaborated on the origin of the factory's name. The first part, "MENA," represents the Middle East and North Africa region, signifying the organization's dedication to serving and contributing to the economic and healthcare development of this region. The second part, "Gen," is an abbreviation for "genes," symbolizing the organization's commitment to genetic technology and innovation in the field of biomedicine.
Dr. Mohammad bin Hamdan Al Rubaie, the Director General of Pharmaceutical Affairs and Drug Control at the Ministry of Health, emphasized the significance of this factory, particularly due to the medications it will produce, including those for cancer and rare diseases. This establishment is not only a valuable addition to Oman but also to the entire region.
Al Rubaie expressed his enthusiasm for this project, which is part of a larger initiative involving 15 projects, including factories for pharmaceutical and medical supplies, as well as raw materials. He also expressed his hope for the opening of two additional projects focusing on intravenous solutions, which would be the first of their kind in Oman.
The establishment of Menagen Pharmaceutical Industries signifies its commitment to producing specialized medicines for genetic diseases, metabolic diseases, hereditary blood diseases, kidney diseases, and various types of cancer medicines. This will address a significant portion of the healthcare needs in the Sultanate of Oman and the surrounding region.
The factory is equipped with a state-of-the-art development and innovation center, the first of its kind in the Middle East. This center is fully prepared to undertake preliminary studies, research, and development activities. To further strengthen this initiative, Menagen Pharmaceutical Industries has entered into a partnership with Sultan Qaboos University, specifically with the Center for Medical Research and Permanent Cooperation. This collaboration was initiated through a comprehensive feasibility study on drug discovery and development processes in Oman.
Through substantial investments and strategic partnerships, Menagen Pharmaceutical Industries aims to provide advanced pharmaceutical solutions that enhance the quality of life and improve health security in the region.
The inauguration of this factory serves as a testament to the government's unwavering support for the medical industries sector. With its progressive policies, the government has fostered an enabling environment for industries, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors to drive progress and achieve shared objectives.
The opening ceremony was graced by the presence of distinguished individuals, including Their Excellencies, Ministers, Their Highnesses, Excellencies, and other officials.
