Lamia Tazi: Leading Innovation in Morocco’s Pharmaceutical Industry

Early Life and Education

Born and raised in Casablanca, Morocco, Lamia Tazi pursued higher education in France, studying at the esteemed Université Paris 1 – Panthéon Sorbonne. She furthered her expertise by obtaining a doctorate in pharmacy from the University of Liège in Belgium.

Career and Achievements

Leadership at Sothema

In 1997, Tazi joined Sothema (Société de Thérapeutique Marocaine), a leading Moroccan pharmaceutical company, as executive assistant to the CEO. Her dedication and strategic vision led to her promotion to Chairwoman and CEO in 2019. Under her leadership, Sothema has experienced remarkable growth, expanding its portfolio to include 35 multinational laboratories and achieving a production capacity of 60 million units annually.

Strategic Partnerships and Expansion

In June 2021, Sothema began producing China’s Sinopharm COVID-19 vaccine, enhancing Morocco’s vaccine accessibility. The company has also formed strategic partnerships, including an agreement with the U.S.’s Baylor College of Medicine, France’s Dassault Systems, Switzerland’s ReGenLab, and Moroccan ministries to establish a platform for Galenic development and clinical trials—the first of its kind in Africa and the Middle East.

Industry Contributions

Beyond her role at Sothema, Tazi serves as the managing director of West Afric Pharma in Senegal, vice president of the Moroccan Federation of Pharmaceutical Industry (FMIIP), and chair of the Omar Tazi Foundation, reflecting her commitment to advancing the pharmaceutical sector and contributing to societal well-being.

Recognition

Tazi’s exceptional leadership and impact have earned her a place among the Middle East’s 100 Most Powerful Businesswomen in 2024, underscoring her influence in the region’s business landscape.

Conclusion

Lamia Tazi’s journey from Casablanca to leading one of Morocco’s foremost pharmaceutical companies exemplifies visionary leadership and dedication to innovation. Her efforts have significantly contributed to Morocco’s healthcare sector and have positioned Sothema as a key player in the global pharmaceutical industry.