The National Drug Authority (NDA) continues to face challenges in eliminating the sale of medicines in open and informal markets, despite intensified efforts to safeguard public health.
Markets such as Amukaru, Wera, Toroma, Ocorimongin, Otuboi, among others in the Teso sub-region, remain hotspots for the illegal sale of drugs, according to NDA officials.
Mr. Tom Makumbi, the Senior Inspector of Drugs at NDA in Teso, said the practice has persisted over time and poses a serious risk to public health. He noted that many individuals arrested during enforcement operations serve their sentences and later return to the same illegal activities, undermining efforts to completely stamp out the vice.
Makumbi further revealed that the majority of arrests made during drug enforcement operations are linked to market areas. He urged members of the public to remain vigilant and avoid purchasing medicines from unlicensed vendors.
Despite the setbacks, Makumbi emphasized that the Authority will continue conducting routine and targeted operations to ensure the safety of the public and enforce compliance with drug regulations.
Meanwhile, Mr. Alfred Akali, a Senior Inspector of Drugs at NDA attached to the enforcement department, warned that medicines sold in open markets are often exposed to sunlight and poor storage conditions, which can compromise their effectiveness and safety.
He explained that improper storage can degrade drugs, making them ineffective or even harmful. Akali also cautioned that some of the medicines sold in open markets are of poor or counterfeit quality.
He advised the public to always purchase medicines from licensed drug shops and accredited health facilities to ensure safety, proper dosage, and quality assurance, reiterating that protecting public health remains a top priority for the Authority.
