Pharmacists could play a bigger role in helping people detect infectious diseases earlier under a new partnership between Moroccan diagnostic test maker GIGALAB and representatives of more than 60 pharmacy unions, 7News reports. The agreement was signed at GIGALAB’s industrial facility in Had Soualem, in the presence of pharmacy representatives from different regions, who were briefed on the technology and locally made rapid diagnostic tests.
Under the agreement, the partners will promote rapid diagnostic tests in pharmacies, with a particular focus on Moroccan-made products, within national regulations and the duties pharmacists are legally authorized to perform. Pharmacists will be trained on how the tests work, when and under what conditions to use them, their limitations and how to interpret results.
The partners will also raise awareness of infectious diseases, encourage earlier screening and help direct people to the appropriate healthcare professionals. The initiative aims to make diagnostic solutions more accessible while ensuring they are used safely under national rules.
Founded in 2007, GIGALAB develops and manufactures rapid diagnostic tests in Morocco. Its facility produces tests and solutions for diagnosis and microbiological testing. The company says local production and closer cooperation with pharmacists can improve prevention, strengthen healthcare workers’ skills and reduce dependence on external sources. It also aims to support the local biomedical industry and expand into African and international markets.
GIGALAB said the partnership reflects a broader approach to health sovereignty: “Health sovereignty is not built only in factories: it is also built on the ground, through the mobilization of healthcare professionals and a stronger culture of prevention and screening.” The partners want lasting cooperation based on training, professional responsibility and public health.