Speaker Profile

BIOGRAPHY

Djamila Reis (Pharm. D; PhD), Regulatory System Strengthening, World Health Organization.
Pharmacist from Cabo Verde with over 20 years of experience in pharmaceutical regulation, public health policy, and international collaboration.
She holds a Master’s degree in Assessment and Regulation of Medicines and Health Products, and a PhD in Pharmacy with a specialization in Pharmacoepidemiology.
Her career began in the pharmaceutical industry in Portugal at Pfizer, where she contributed to regulatory affairs and pharmacovigilance. Returning to Cabo Verde, Dr. Reis played a pivotal role in establishing the country’s National Regulatory Authority (ARFA), serving as a founding board member and later as CEO for a total of fourteen years. Under her leadership, ARFA implemented foundational legislation and developed a WHO-recognized pharmacovigilance system.
Dr. Reis has also served as Executive Director of the Portuguese-Speaking Countries Pharmacists’ Association (AFPLP), advancing pharmaceutical sciences through advocacy, education, and regional cooperation.
Her consultancy work includes strategic planning for the African Medicines Agency with the Boston Consulting Group and patient safety with Eurotrials.
She remains a passionate advocate for regulatory convergence and harmonization, recognizing them as powerful tools to strengthen regulatory systems and ensure equitable, affordable access to quality-assured, safe, and effective medical products.