Zimbabwean Government Promises to Tackle Drug Shortages, Dismisses Theft Claims

By Adebowale Bello. Freelance Health Writer.
 

Monday, September 16, 2024. The Zimbabwean government has pledged to tackle the ongoing shortage of medicines in public hospitals by ensuring a steady supply of drugs starting next month.

This commitment comes amidst rising concerns over limited access to affordable healthcare as public hospitals across the country face severe shortages of essential medicines and equipment. Many patients have been left stranded, relying on private pharmacies where prices are prohibitively high for the average citizen.

Addressing the issue in a recent session of the National Assembly, Deputy Minister of Health, Sleiman Kwidini, assured that the government is taking steps to resolve the crisis. He announced that a significant consignment of medicines is expected to arrive by mid-October, which will alleviate the current shortages in the country’s hospitals.

“In terms of the shortage of drugs, we are expecting a large shipment from our suppliers. By mid-October, we anticipate a major improvement, and over time, we hope these shortages will be a thing of the past,” said Kwidini.

The Deputy Minister also responded to rumors circulating that doctors and nurses were siphoning government-procured medicines for personal gain. He dismissed these allegations, explaining that healthcare professionals operating legitimate pharmacies are subject to strict regulations and must source their medicines from recognized suppliers, not from public hospitals.

"I wouldn’t say it is true that doctors and nurses are stealing government-procured drugs for their own pharmacies or businesses. In Zimbabwe, if someone wants to open a pharmacy, they must meet all the legal requirements. Once approved, they have the mandate to source drugs from suppliers like everyone else," Kwidini clarified.

He emphasized the government’s broader strategy to address the root cause of the problem, noting that Zimbabwe currently relies heavily on imported medicines. As part of a long-term solution, the government is working to strengthen local pharmaceutical manufacturing capacities.

“Our local pharmaceutical companies are not yet fully equipped to meet the country's needs, which is why most drugs are imported. However, the government is now prioritizing the capacitation of local manufacturers and we believe that as these companies expand their production capabilities, drug shortages will be significantly reduced,” Kwidini added.

This announcement offers some hope to Zimbabweans, many of whom have been struggling to afford medication amidst rising healthcare costs. The government's efforts to stabilize the supply of medicines could mark a turning point in addressing the ongoing healthcare crisis.

Source: New Zimbabwe

Published: September 16, 2024

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