Astrid Stealey, Area Managing Director, South Africa & Sub-Saharan Africa, Kenvue
World Pharmacists Day is an opportunity to recognise the contribution pharmacists make to the health of communities across South Africa. But recognition must go hand in hand with ensuring they have the training, resources and support to meet the demands being placed on them.
Pharmacists are often among the most accessible healthcare professionals in their communities. They play an important role in helping people navigate everyday self-care, understand the responsible use of medicines and recognise when symptoms require referral to a doctor or another healthcare service. That guidance can help people make more informed decisions about their health, but it should never be taken for granted.
Kenvue’s previously published research found that 82% of surveyed South African pharmacists regularly provide advice to people who cannot access a GP. At the same time, 76% reported increased demands on their time.
These findings highlight both the value pharmacists provide and the pressure many are working under. Supporting them means investing in continuous professional education, access to credible, evidence-based information and systems that recognise both the potential and the limits of their role.
This year’s World Pharmacists Day 2026 theme, “Empowering pharmacists for healthier futures,” captures that challenge well. A healthier future depends on pharmacists being equipped and supported to use their expertise confidently, responsibly and sustainably.
