By Walter Okello
Soroti, Uganda | In a sweeping operation across Uganda’s North Eastern Region, the National Drug Authority (NDA) has dealt a major financial blow to the illegal drug trade, confiscating over 200 boxes of medicines valued at more than UGX 100 million (roughly USD 27,000).
The week-long enforcement campaign, spanning Soroti, Ngora, Bukedea, Kaberamaido, and Moroto districts, targeted unlicensed drug outlets profiting from the unregulated sale of pharmaceuticals, shutting down over 20 facilities, including five pharmacies, and arresting five individuals for operating without valid licenses.
Samuel Kyomukama, the NDA’s Head of Enforcement said the illicit drug market, fueled by unlicensed operators, has been a growing concern, with substandard and mishandled medicines flooding communities and generating substantial profits for illegal vendors.
He added that the NDA’s seizure of medicines worth millions underscores the scale of this underground economy, which thrives at the expense of public health.
“These operators are not just breaking the law. They’re profiting off unsafe drugs that endanger lives,” Kyomukama uttered.
He says this operation hits their bottom line and sends a strong message.
”The impounded medicines, often stored improperly or dispensed by unqualified personnel, pose serious risks, including treatment failures and antimicrobial resistance, which can drive up healthcare costs for families and the government”.
Abiaz Rwamwiri, NDA’s Public Relations Manager, said that by removing these drugs from circulation, the NDA is protecting Ugandans from financial losses tied to ineffective treatments and health complications. “When you buy from unlicensed outlets, you’re gambling with your money and your health,” he said.
“Safe medicines from licensed pharmacies save both lives and wallets and the operation conducted under the National Drug Policy and Authority Act, Cap 198, targeted operators violating licensing requirements which ensure proper handling and storage of medicines” Abiaz added.
Tom Makumbi, Regional Inspector of Drugs, directed affected operators to visit its North Eastern regional office in Soroti City to comply with regulations and reclaim their seized stock.
Makumbi encouraged the public to purchase medicines only from licensed pharmacies and drug shops, which they believe knows how to handle health related cases by prescribing recommended drug to patients.