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-esmTwitter (X): @ARC_ESM https://x.com/ARC_ESM?t=OVUKWtp0oAU3e8n3tYekHQ&s=09Instagram: @thearc_esm https://www.instagram.com/arc_esm?igsh=ZzM0c3A4ZWlhMzR5Follow us on socials:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/global-policy-network   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/global_policy_network?igsh=MW94NW4wdm82NHRxYg==  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ZKGD3vx5V/?mibextid=wwXIfr  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@globalpolicynetwork?_t=ZN-8xV4J5QngTm&_r=1 Or visit our website, www.globalpolicynetwork.com