NDA impounds medicine worth sh69m in Lango

Lira, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | The National Drugs Authority (NDA) in collaboration with Uganda Police has impounded assorted drugs worth 69 million shillings from unlicensed drug shops in Lango sub region.

During the five-day compliance enforcement operation conducted in six districts of Apac, Alebtong, Kole, Oyam, Lira District and City, 216 drug outlets that were either operating without licenses or with unqualified personnel were closed and 268 boxes of assorted medicine were recovered.

Zablon K. Igirikwayo, the manager NDA Lira branch explained that unlike in the past where such operations would happen in all the ten districts, this was conducted in only six districts with very low level of compliance.

He is also concerned that such operations are being frustrated by community members who shield quack doctors within the community simply because they provide quick alternatives at fair prices when need arises.

However, Samuel Kyomukama, the Head of Enforcement explained that despite the challenge, NDA will continue to conduct the operations to ensure that Ugandans are safe. He appealed to the general public to always buy drugs only from pharmacies and drug shops which are licensed.

Dr. Anthony Ogwal, the Lira District Veterinary Officer believes that such operations coupled with community sensitization being done by veterinary extension workers will eradicate unlicensed drug outlets from within the community.

NDA is mandated to protect and promote public health through effective regulation of human and animal medicines, and healthcare products.

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