Govt Tackling Medical Drug Theft and Strengthening Supply Chains

Minister for Health Dr Elijah Muchima has assured Zambians that the government is taking robust measures to tackle drug theft after the United States said it was cutting some $50 million in medical aid.

“The Government of Zambia has implemented robust remedial measures to protect medicines, ensuring that they reach the patients who need them most,” he said in a statement.

Dr Muchima highlighted President Hakainde Hichilema’s decision to implement a comprehensive, forensic audit of the entire medicines supply chain, overseen by the accountancy firm PwC. This has resulted in the removal of several senior officials at the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supply Agency (ZAMMSA), including its director general Victor Nyasulu. Most of these officials are now awaiting trial.

The minister also assured citizens that the country currently has sufficient stocks of essential medicines – including antiretrovirals for HIV treatment and antimalarials - and that there is “no immediate risk of shortages”.

He highlighted that since the government took office, drug availability has increased from 35% to 75% nationwide. This means that three-quarters of medical facilities have the necessary supplies of essential drugs at any one time, which is in line with World Health Organisation (WHO) standards.

The statement came after United States Ambassador to Zambia Michael Gonzales said on Thursday that his country was cutting medical aid to Zambia over the alleged “systematic theft” of donated drugs and supplies.

Dr Muchima assured citizens that the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) has intensified its operations, establishing a Joint National Drug Taskforce, and securing multiple arrests and prosecutions for medical drug theft.

Meanwhile, the revamped ZAMMSA has implemented advanced digital stock tracking systems, which enable the real-time monitoring of medical inventories and ensure accurate record keeping.

“The government is engaged in constructive dialogue with the U.S. government to address their concerns, implement robust solutions, and maintain the strong partnership that underpins our healthcare progress. The government is committed to transparency, accountability, and justice in delivering quality healthcare to every Zambian,” Dr Muchima concluded.