In Africa for Africa - Universal Corporation Limited

Quality Medicines for
Healthier Africa

Diversified
Portfolio

Trusted by Healthcare
Practitioner

Where Experience, Quality, and Scale Come Together.

At Universal Corporation Ltd, we believe quality healthcare should be within everyone’s reach. For over 27 years, we’ve been a trusted pharmaceutical leader in Africa, delivering life-saving treatments and everyday wellness solutions across 23+ countries.

From our WHO-prequalified facility in Kenya—one of only two in Sub-Saharan Africa—we produce billions of units annually across antimalarials, antivirals, cardiology, diabetes, dermatology, and neuropsychiatry. Our portfolio includes tablets, capsules, syrups, creams, and specialized gels, all designed with affordability, reliability, and world-class quality in mind.

From pediatric care to essential medicines and WHO-certified antiretrovirals, every product reflects our mission: Helping families across Africa lead healthier, stronger, and thriving lives.

Key Facts

1 +

Countries of operation with approvals from 11+ African authorities.

1 +

Employees with 50% representation by women.

1 Million

Children reached through our Co-Pack/ORS program.

1 Billion+

units produced annually, powering innovation at scale.

Our Journey

1996

Founded in Nairobi, Kenya with production of five generic medicines, laying the foundation for affordable healthcare in Africa.

2005

State-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Kikuyu started operations, boosting scale and quality standards.

2010

In collaboration with UNICEF, developed the Co-Pack (ORS with zinc) for treating childhood diarrhea and CHX gel for umbilical cord care, improving child health across the continent.

2011

First African local manufacturer to achieve WHO prequalification (Lamozid), opening access to Global Fund programs.

2016

Entered a strategic partnership with Strides, strengthening global presence and capabilities.

2020

Received WHO certification for Artemether-Lumefantrine 20/120mg — expanding our anti-malarial portfolio.

2024

Crossed 100+ formulations and supply to 23+ countries, reinforcing our mission: In Africa, for Africa.

1996 2005 2010 2011 2016 2020 2024

Sustainability Initiatives

Environment

Transitioned from fossil-fuel boilers to biomass briquettes, cutting lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions.

Emphasize pollution prevention and control with advanced low-emission technologies across air, water, and noise.

Social

Zero-harm goal: proactive hazard identification, training, and audits for employees, contractors, and visitors.

Community programs: CSR initiatives in health, safety awareness, and local skills development.

Governance

Comprehensive Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) process ensuring resilience and business continuity.

Strong policy framework covering ethics, human rights, anti-bribery, whistleblowing, and compliance.