TelQuel: Where does Morocco stand in its quest for health sovereignty, particularly in the medical device sector?

Karim Zaher: We are still far from that goal. Over 90% of the medical devices used in Morocco are imported. The political will exists, but it has not yet materialized into a solid industrial ecosystem. What’s missing is a framework conducive to local production, which involves training, research, partnerships, and above all, public procurement that supports national players. Health sovereignty isn’t about producing a few items: it’s an integrated approach that requires a long-term strategy.

Gigalab is part of this dynamic. Since 2021, we’ve had a factory in Casablanca with an investment of 50 million dirhams. It employs 60 highly qualified people and posts a turnover of around 50 million dirhams, with double-digit growth. A new industrial site is underway in Benslimane. Dedicated to exports, it will be operational in 2027. To support its development, the company is also in discussions with several investors.

How is Gigalab helping to reduce the country’s dependence?

We realized during the pandemic just how vital it was to strengthen our health autonomy. Our first saliva test marked an important milestone. Since then, we’ve developed tests for monkeypox, malaria, HIV, hepatitis — but also for strep, to fight antibiotic resistance, as well as pregnancy tests. The idea remains the same: anticipate risks, ensure national responsiveness, and offer solutions tailored to local realities.

Gigalab’s test for monkeypox is now used at border posts. What allows you to be so responsive?

Our strength lies in mastering the value chain. I’m an immunologist, which gives us an advantage in understanding the components. We’ve also built reliable international partnerships. For example, our monkeypox test achieved a sensitivity of 75% in an independent report in the DRC, while European tests topped out at 15%. This proves that an African player can offer a product that outperforms international standards. This expertise needs to be recognized and supported.

Gigalab isn’t limited to tests, you also produce culture media. Why this choice?

Today, we are the only ones in Morocco to offer a full range approved by the Ministry of Health. These media are used in medical analysis, as well as in the agri-food and pharmaceutical sectors. During the pandemic, Moroccan laboratories experienced shortages due to imports. Since 2022, we’ve filled that gap with a reliable local solution. All major microbiology laboratories now trust us. It’s a step toward technical autonomy.

What are the obstacles to the emergence of a true medical device industry in Morocco?

The heart of the matter is the market. An industrialist can invest, but if the administration continues to award public contracts to importers, it hinders the local momentum. A clear national preference must be established in tenders. Why not reserve 20 to 25% of contracts for Moroccan producers? As long as that direction isn’t in place, industrialists will hesitate. Financing isn’t the issue — banks can follow — but the lack of outlets. The market is the engine of industrial investment.

Can Morocco also play a role on the African scale?

That’s one of our goals. We’ve designed tests suited to the infectious diseases affecting the continent: malaria, yellow fever, monkeypox. Today, we’re in talks with clients in the DRC, Sierra Leone, Rwanda, Côte d’Ivoire… But to export, the product must be nationally recognized through a “free sale” certificate. If the Moroccan state doesn’t trust its own manufacturers, it’s hard to convince others. We need the support of health and diplomatic authorities to take this step and position Morocco as a key supplier for Africa.

Can an event like AFCON 2025 play a role in showcasing Moroccan health expertise?

Absolutely. This event is an opportunity to showcase Morocco’s know-how, not only in logistics or sports, but also in managing health risks. In Africa, since 2022, nearly 160,000 suspected cases and 46,000 confirmed cases of monkeypox have been reported, with around 1,900 suspected deaths. To prevent any spread, it’s essential to implement rapid screening systems at the borders. AFCON 2025 must also be a health success. It’s a continental showcase to demonstrate that Morocco can also protect. We’re ready to actively contribute starting now.

In your opinion, what is needed to bring about industrial health champions in Morocco?

What’s needed is trust. Trust in Moroccan manufacturers, in their rigor, their expertise, their ability to innovate. We’ve shown that we can respond in real time to health threats. It’s time for procurement policies, incentives, and recognition to follow. Sovereignty isn’t declared — it’s built, and the private sector is a cornerstone. We’re ready. All that’s missing is a strong signal.

Written in French by TelQuel Impact, edited in English by Eric Nielson