The Uganda National Drug Authority (NDA) has recovered drugs worth Shs2 billion that were stolen from government stores. This announcement followed a week-long compliance enforcement operation in the southwestern region.
Over the past eight months, NDA recovered the stolen drugs, found in both private health facilities and individuals’ homes. The authority expressed concern over drug shortages in government health facilities, blaming dishonest individuals who divert drugs meant for public use, causing hardship for vulnerable people.
Government funds the purchase and distribution of drugs using taxpayers’ money, but these drugs often fail to reach their intended recipients. As a result, people end up paying for drugs that should have been free. The NDA is intensifying efforts to combat the theft of government drugs.
Preliminary investigations indicate that some stolen drugs, including antiretroviral and antimalarial medications, are being smuggled into the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
NDA called on local communities and leaders to remain vigilant and help authorities in apprehending those involved in drug theft. They encouraged monitoring of health workers, especially when they leave facilities after work, as this is often when drugs are illegally removed.
The compliance enforcement operation covered five districts in southwestern Uganda, resulting in the closure of 79 drug shops that were operating illegally or with unqualified staff. Additionally, 153 boxes of drugs worth Shs50 million were confiscated.
Individuals whose drugs were seized were advised to visit NDA offices in Mbarara City for guidance on compliance, after which the drugs will be returned once all issues are resolved.